Here are some commonly asked questions related to podiatry and the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of foot and ankle disorders:
What is a podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions and injuries affecting the feet, ankles, and lower extremities. They undergo extensive training and education to become experts in foot health.
When should I see a podiatrist?
You should consider seeing a podiatrist if you experience any foot or ankle problems, such as pain, swelling, numbness, or difficulty walking. Common reasons to visit a podiatrist include bunions, ingrown toenails, plantar fasciitis, fractures, sports injuries, and flat feet, among others.
Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?
In many cases, you do not need a referral to see a podiatrist. You can schedule an appointment directly with a podiatrist, but it's a good idea to check with your health insurance provider to understand their specific requirements.
How can I prevent foot problems?
To prevent foot problems, it's essential to practice good foot care. This includes wearing appropriate and well-fitting footwear, maintaining proper foot hygiene, keeping your feet dry, and avoiding excessive high-impact activities that can put strain on your feet. Regularly examining your feet for any signs of abnormalities is also beneficial.
What are orthotics, and how can they help?
Orthotics are custom-made shoe inserts designed to provide support, correct foot deformities, and alleviate foot and ankle pain. They can help improve gait, redistribute pressure, and provide cushioning, making them beneficial for various foot conditions.
How are ingrown toenails treated?
Treatment for an ingrown toenail may involve soaking the affected foot in warm water, wearing proper footwear, and gently lifting the edge of the ingrown nail. In more severe cases, a podiatrist may need to remove part or all of the ingrown toenail under local anesthesia.
Can podiatrists perform foot surgery?
Yes, podiatrists are trained to perform foot and ankle surgeries. They can address various conditions, including bunions, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, and ankle injuries.
Are there any non-surgical treatments for heel pain?
Yes, non-surgical treatments for heel pain, such as plantar fasciitis, may include rest, ice, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic inserts, and anti-inflammatory medications. In some cases, extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) may be used to stimulate healing.
What can I do about toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus can be treated with antifungal medications, either in topical or oral form. In severe cases or when conservative measures fail, a podiatrist may consider removing the infected nail.
How can I prevent foot problems while running or playing sports?
To prevent foot problems while engaging in physical activities, ensure you have appropriate footwear with proper support and cushioning. Warm up before exercise, and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts to avoid overuse injuries. Stretching and cooling down after activities can also help.
If you have any other questions or specific concerns about your foot health, it's best to make a consultation for a proper evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
How do I make an appointment?
Simply call us at during our working hours or you can request an appointment online using this form.
Do I need a referral to make an appointment?
Most medical specialists will accept only referred patients. This is mainly to try to ensure that the specialist you are seeing is appropriate for you and your condition. Check with your insurance company to see if a referral is necessary.
What to bring for your initial consultation?
For your initial consultation you will need to bring a referral letter from your physician if required.
Here is check list for your initial consultation:
- Driver’s License or a valid ID
- Insurance information
- Referral Letter (if required)
- Reports, X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, etc. and any other relevant information
- List of medications (if any)
We encourage you to come to your initial consultation with a written list of questions to ensure you don’t forget to ask them when you visit the doctor.
Are my medical records kept private and confidential?
Your medical file is handled with the utmost respect for your privacy. Our staff is bound by strict confidentiality requirements as a condition of employment regarding your medical records. We will not release the contents of your medical file without your consent.
What are the most common injuries?
The most common orthopedic injuries are sprains and strains, fractures and dislocations. Injuries can occur when playing indoor or outdoor sports or while exercising. Sports injuries can result from accidents, inadequate training, improper use of protective devices, or insufficient stretching or warm-up exercises.
What are the non-surgical treatment options?
The non-surgical treatment options include rest, medications including analgesics and antibiotics, injections, and physical/occupational therapy.
