Podiatrists are doctors specializing in medical treatment of foot and ankle disorders. In America, any doctor specializing in podiatry must go through surgical training, and many go through other specializations as well. But any podiatrist can treat problems arising in the bones, muscles, ligaments, or tendons in the foot and ankle. Common structural deformities treated by Podiatrists include bunions and bone spurs.
Flat foot and high arch deformities can also be treated by a foot doctor. Congenital deformities involving the feet and lower extremities can often be treated as well.
These disorders are sometimes painful and often cause difficulty walking. Often consulting a specialist can help to clear up these issues. And a doctor can at least treat the symptoms if they are caused by an underlying disease.
Treating trauma related injuries to the feet and lower extremities is also the responsibility of a best podiatrist in Jacksonville FL. These include fractures, dislocations, and broken bones as well as post-traumatic arthrosis, also known as osteoarthritis.
The swelling, pain, and reduced range of motion associated with this, and other forms of arthritis can be alleviated through treatment by a specializing physician. Those with diabetes should be particularly attentive to their feet, as often symptoms of diabetes manifest themselves in the lower extremities.
Open sores on the feet or ankles can lead to skin and bone infections, and those suffering from diabetes have more difficulty with healing these.
Anyone should seek help if they notice drastic changes in or between their feet. These include tingling sensations and localized pain, as well as more visible moles and changes in foot coloration.
The sudden appearance of otherwise harmless deformities is the call for concern as well. Pain, redness, and swelling accompanying a variation in the foot’s appearance should be diagnosed and treated immediately.
Patients who are experiencing foot pain, have been having difficulty walking, or have noticed a decreased range of motion in any of the joints of the feet or ankles should consult a specializing physician.
A podiatrist at First Coast Foot and Ankle Clinic in Jacksonville FL can help their patients find relief from symptoms and treat a variety of lower extremity deformities and diseases. Visit firstcoastfootclinic.com for more details.
