WHEN TO SEE A PODIATRIST?

·       Sore feet are not normal! It is a general consensus that sore feet are a part of ageing but this is not the case. 

·       Inappropriate footwear, bunions, arthritic pain, infections, corns and callous are all issues that can be fixed or at least managed and improved to help get you back on your feet. 

·       Something as simple as an ingrown toenail can lead to serious infections and even loss of limbs if left untreated. You wouldn’t leave a tooth infection untreated so why do we neglect our feet?

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN SEEING A PODIATRIST? 

·       Your podiatrist will start with taking a thorough history of your medical conditions and anything relevant that may be affecting your feet. 

·       Depending on what you come in for your podiatrist will assess any relevant areas such as your joint range of motion, vascular blood flow to your feet, nerve sensation, footwear fit and skin condition. 

·       Your podiatrist will then treat and manage your feet based on your results; such as prescribing exercises to improve balance, suggesting antifungals for fungal toenails, cut and file nails to manage ingrown toenails or prescribe orthotics for abnormal walking styles. 

WHAT CAN'T I SEE MY PODIATRIST FOR?

·       Medications – a podiatrist can recommend over the counter medications however they are unable to prescribe medications without further study. 

·       Footwear modifications – a podiatrist can alter your insole within your shoes, but they are unable to alter your shoes externally. For footwear alterations, you will need to see a Pedorthist. 

·       Nail polish – unfortunately, while they cut and file nails, they are not a nail salon and don’t paint them. 

·       Anything above the hip – while they may be able to assess your back or neck, they are unable to treat above the hip however they can recommend other services who can.

Information Provided By: Your Happy Feet.