3 Non-Surgical Treatment Methods a Foot Doctor Might Use
Foot doctors are qualified to treat a range of foot and ankle conditions to relieve pain and improve mobility. Surgical treatments are helpful, but they aren’t always necessary, depending on the severity of the patient’s condition and their preferences. Here are some of the non-surgical treatments a foot doctor at Horizon Foot & Ankle Institute may suggest:
1. Orthopedic Devices
Orthopedic devices are shoe inserts used to treat multiple conditions affecting the foot and ankle, like Achilles tendonitis. When patients wear the inserts regularly, they help reduce pain caused by inflammatory conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and plantar fasciitis. These devices are customized to match the size and shape of the foot and its support needs. Our team of doctors uses this non-surgical treatment option to realign the structure of the foot and leg to reduce tension on the muscles, bones, and connective tissues.
If you experience regular or constant pain in your feet, knees, or hips, custom orthotics may help you find relief. Horizon Foot & Ankle Institute offers custom-fit rigid and soft orthotic solutions depending on the severity of your condition and the location of your discomfort. Rigid orthotics are made from plastic or carbon fiber to improve the function of your feet and joints. Soft orthopedic devices are made of cushioned materials that accommodate painful foot conditions and make walking more comfortable.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Some foot and ankle conditions can be treated with anti-inflammatory medications that help reduce swelling and pressure in and around painful areas. These medications include over-the-counter NSAIDs and steroid injections. We may recommend NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen for painful conditions like plantar fasciitis and bone spurs. We use steroid injections, like cortisone, as a more powerful treatment method for reducing inflammation. These injections target specific tendons and joints that are painful and inflamed.
After providing anti-inflammatory treatments, our foot doctors may recommend at-home care methods to enhance the treatment. These methods include resting and icing the affected area. This helps reduce irritation and strain caused by movement. We may also suggest compression and elevation to keep the foot or ankle from swelling and promote the body’s natural healing process.
3. Diabetes Management
To treat and prevent diabetic foot ulcers, a foot doctor may recommend several non-surgical options to manage primary diabetes symptoms. These treatments include reducing and maintaining glucose levels through diet and insulin. Lower blood sugar levels help speed up the healing process for existing ulcers. Soothing the cracked and irritated skin of the feet helps prevent the future development of ulcers and infections.
Nerve stimulation treatments may be beneficial for diabetic patients who experience ulcers and neuropathy. This treatment involves sending electrical currents to nerves in the feet through Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) electrodes that are placed on the skin. This helps stimulate proper nerve function, allowing patients to regain or maintain feeling in their feet. When patients can feel their feet, they are more likely to notice diabetic ulcers and seek treatment before the condition worsens. Our team can treat diabetic ulcers in our office with preventative measures, minimally invasive wound care, and antibiotics.
Schedule an Appointment With a Foot Doctor
Individuals experiencing foot and joint pain can explore non-surgical treatment options at Horizon Foot & Ankle Institute. Our foot doctors will assess your overall health, foot condition, and pain management goals to determine the most effective treatment method for you. In addition to our non-invasive treatments, we also offer surgical procedures to restore foot health and function. View our services online or schedule an appointment today to learn more about how we can help you.