Why See a Foot and Ankle Specialist
5 Reasons to See a Foot and Ankle Specialist
Seek the help of an experienced foot doctor whenever you feel something isn’t right with your feet. Some issues can resolve without intervention, but others require experts. Specialists can offer a proper diagnosis and help you construct a treatment plan. Choose a reputable foot and ankle institute like Horizon. We treat illnesses, infections, diabetes-related foot issues, arthritic pain, deformities, and more. Here are five reasons why you should schedule an appointment with our podiatrists:
1. Persistent Heel Pain
You shouldn’t take heel pain lightly, as it may stem from serious issues like Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis. Heel pain can also result from other issues or conditions, such as high arches, flat feet, and abnormal bony growths (spurs). We can provide various treatment options to relieve heel pain and foot issues that don’t go away on their own.
If your heels are dry and the skin cracks or bleeds, you can be at a higher risk of infection. Our podiatrists can help determine what’s causing these symptoms. We can use imaging techniques like x-rays to scan the heel and foot and pinpoint the underlying issue. Our foot doctors can also develop a custom treatment plan to alleviate the pain and treat the condition.
2. Bunions, Corns & Calluses
See a podiatrist if you have bunions that cause pain or discomfort. Removing the bunions can alleviate the pain and soreness. If not treated, bunions can get more prominent, and the pain can get worse. You may need surgery to remove the bunion safely. Our podiatrists may also use non-invasive options like medication and taping, depending on the bunion’s severity.
Thick corns and calluses can be painful as they get larger. They may also stem from underlying conditions like bunions. Our podiatrists can remove the hardened skin to relieve the pain. We can prescribe treatments like topical medication and corticosteroid injections to treat calluses. Our podiatrists can also work on addressing the original issue causing the corns and calluses.
3. Ingrown Toenail That Gets Worse
An ingrown toenail can cause pain. The condition occurs when your toenails grow into the skin, and it can be caused by a variety of reasons. An ingrown toenail may cause an infection, and attempts to care for it at home may not be enough to address the condition properly. Visit our podiatrists to help you take care of ingrown toenails.
We can address all cases of ingrown toenails, including first-time and recurring conditions. Our podiatrists can prescribe medication to alleviate the pain.
4. Persistent Fungal Infection
If you have a thick, yellowing toenail, it may be a fungal infection. Fungal infections aren’t usually painful, but they can become serious issues if not addressed on time. At Horizon Foot & Ankle Institute, we can provide comprehensive treatment for fungal infections like athlete’s foot.
Some conditions result from bacterial infection, so we may prescribe antibiotics. Nail fungus can spread to other toes and cause the nails to thicken and discolor. Fungus can spread to even those with good hygiene. Our podiatrists recommend checking between your toes regularly and seeking treatment early to stop the fungus from spreading.
5. Chronic Pain in Foot/Ankle Joints
Swollen, stiff, red, or tender joints can signify arthritis. See a professional foot doctor if your foot and ankle joints hurt when you stand or walk. Our podiatrists can examine your joints to determine what’s causing the symptoms. We offer comprehensive diagnosis and treatment options to reduce joint pain, swelling, and other symptoms.
Our podiatrists will often recommend medication, minimally invasive procedures, joint surgery, or replacement, depending on the diagnosis. Even if your pain goes away with OTC medications, you may still need a professional examination to determine the cause and find effective treatment. Horizon Foot & Ankle Institute can help you establish a long-term treatment plan.
Other Reasons to Visit a Foot and Ankle Institute
Visit a podiatrist for any foot condition that causes pain, discomfort, or concern. Some conditions don’t cause pain but may impact how you use your feet. Deformities, neurological issues, numbness, and tingling, are all signs that you should see a podiatrist. Visiting a foot and ankle institute can help determine the underlying problem and determine the most effective treatment.
At Horizon Foot & Ankle Institute, we provide exceptional expertise in treating any and all issues of the foot, ankle, and lower leg. We cover diabetes-related foot care, and treatment for corns, calluses, bunions, ingrown nails, hammertoes, heel pain, skin conditions, arthritis, deformities, and more. You can schedule now to speak to an expert and learn more about our podiatric services and how we can help.