A podiatrist is a doctor who specializes in all things related to the foot and ankle, including foot pain, abnormal growths, injuries, diabetic foot issues, and nerve damage. They not only diagnose and treat existing foot and ankle conditions, but they can also address underlying health issues that may be causing your symptoms. Moreover, they can help you prevent future foot pain and injuries to which you may be susceptible.
Many people put off seeing a podiatrist and instead attempt to self-treat at home – hoping it will resolve itself. Others don’t bother going to a physician because they think that they simply need to accept their foot condition as something they have to live with, and that treatment isn’t possible or feasible.
A podiatrist can determine what is causing your foot and ankle problem in order to address it successfully. Let’s talk about what a podiatrist does for patients, and what this type of doctor can do for you.
Reasons to See a Podiatrist
The following is a partial list of the many health conditions that a podiatrist can treat:
- Ingrown toenails
- Corns
- Calluses
- Hammertoes
- Bunions
- Athlete’s foot
- Warts
- Toenail fungus
- Heel spurs
- Heel pain
- Fallen arches and flatfoot
- Plantar fasciitis
- Sprains and strains of the foot and ankle
- Achilles tendonitis
- Foot fractures
- Peripheral and diabetic neuropathy
- Foot and ankle pain
- Numbness and tingling
Oftentimes, lower back pain and knee pain are caused by foot and ankle issues. Problems with your feet and ankles can throw your body off balance and thereby cause joint issues.
Podiatrists also have specialized knowledge and training to pinpoint the source of the issue – if it is indeed based in your foot and/or ankle – and to prescribe custom orthotics to effectively address the pain and relieve the symptoms. Practicing and licensed podiatrists are up-to-date on the latest techniques that can relieve symptoms of foot and ankle issues.
Foot and Ankle Doctors in Montgomery County and Washington, D.C.
If you are having problems or pain in your foot or ankle, it is in your best interest to schedule a consultation with an experienced podiatrist who knows exactly how to diagnose and repair your issue. Here at the Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland Foot & Ankle Care, we provide convenient on-site diagnostics – which not only saves our patients time and energy from having to go from one location to another, but also enables our podiatrists to make a firm diagnosis and to prescribe treatment without unnecessary delay.
In our facilities across Central Maryland, we bring diagnostics, treatment, and rehabilitation together under one roof. We aim to get you back on your feet in no time so you can enjoy your active lifestyle once again.
To request an appointment with one of our board-certified and fellowship-trained foot and ankle specialists, call the Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland Foot & Ankle Care today at (410) 644-1880 or (855) 4MD-BONE (463-2663), or fill out our appointment request form online now. We look forward to being your partner in health and wellness!
