Podiatrist Research Paper

Three Situations When You Should Consider Seeing a Podiatrist

A podiatrist, if you're not familiar with the word, is a foot doctor. They specialize in all things related to the feet, but also the ankle areas as well. For many people, the idea of podiatrist is an afterthought. The type of doctor you see for a specific injury or other medical problem that can be treated and then the problem is behind you. But there are many people who should have a podiatrist as a routine aspect of their health care. The following are three different situations when you should be seeing a podiatrist.

If you are a diabetic

Diabetes can cause a variety of problems that relate specifically to your feet. It is for this reason that your should have a podiatrist helping you the same way an ophthalmologist can help with diabetic related problems with your eyes. Diabetes can create circulation issues that effect the feet. High glucose levels can also mean a slower amount of time for cuts and sores to heal. What may be a common blister for another person, can become a problem for a diabetic. In addition, the onset of neuropathy, or nerve damage, can result in less feeling in your feet. A podiatrist can help instruct you on proper foot care if this begins to happen.

When this happens you will need treatment, but for many people, it is something that you must live with. A podiatrist can teach you stretching exercises to reduce pain. They can also help with shoe selection for pain relief. For a chronic case of plantar fasciitis, a podiatrist can provide regular injections of cortisone. If your condition is severe, there are certain surgeries that may help as