When and Why Should You Go to a Podiatrist: A Guide

Podiatrists specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of foot, ankle and leg problems. They provide comprehensive care to maintain overall health and to prevent and treat many conditions that affect the feet. Knowing when and why to see a podiatrist in Toronto can help you stay healthy and enjoy a more active lifestyle.

What Does a Podiatrist Do? 

A podiatrist, also known as a foot specialist, focuses on the medical and surgical care of the foot, ankle, and lower leg. They treat conditions associated with bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, and arch problems.

Aside from this, they are skilled in wounds and skin and nail care. They also manage complications from diabetes, perform reconstructive surgery, and treat sports, occupational, and lifestyle-related injuries.

When Should You See a Podiatrist?

If you experience any issues with your feet or ankles, it is best to seek help from a podiatrist in Toronto sooner rather than later. The sooner an issue is identified and treated, the better the outcome and the less likely complications are to occur.

Below are the common signs and symptoms that warrant a visit to the podiatrist:

• Swelling

• Discoloration

• Redness

• Pain

• Bruising

• Thickened Nails

• Bleeding

• Burning Sensation

• Tingling

• Numbness

• Infection

• Deformity

However, it is still recommended to visit a podiatrist regularly even if you have no health issues. This can help prevent or detect problems with your feet and ankles before they become a major issue. Additionally, podiatrists can offer personalised advice and recommend lifestyle changes to help improve your overall foot health.

Why See a Podiatrist?

Podiatrists are unique in their specialty, training, and education, which allow them to treat foot and ankle issues with the utmost care and accuracy. They can help to prevent and treat foot and ankle conditions through the following services:

Diagnosis and Treatment

Podiatrists provide comprehensive care to diagnose and treat various foot and ankle issues. If you have a problem with your feet or ankles, they can diagnose you accurately and create a personalised treatment plan for you.

Preventative Care

Regular visits to the podiatrist can help prevent foot and ankle conditions from developing or worsening. They can also help detect and manage common disorders such as diabetes and arthritis, which can cause long-term damage if left untreated.

Surgery

If necessary, podiatrists are specially trained to perform reconstructive surgery to correct deformity and damage from injury and illness.

Custom Orthotics

Podiatrists can provide custom-made orthotics to reduce stress and strain on the foot, ankle, and lower leg, as well as to support weak structures of the foot, preventing further injury.

Personalised Advice

A podiatrist can offer personalised advice on how to care for your feet, shoes, and other foot aids and suggest lifestyle changes to improve your overall foot health.

Conclusion

If you have any issues with your feet or ankles, it is best to seek help from a podiatrist as soon as possible. Podiatrists can provide comprehensive care, including preventative measures, surgery, custom orthotics, and personalised advice.

Take the necessary steps to maintain your foot health. Sheldon Nadal D.P.M, is a podiatrist in Toronto offering checkups, surgery, and more. Contact us today for any questions.