Often when we injure our feet or legs, we choose to treat ourselves at home after getting advice from the pharmacist.
While this can sometimes be adequate to resolve our problems, there are some occasions where you should see a podiatrist, who can diagnose your foot problems and recommend the best course of action to resolve the issue.
When To See A Podiatrist For Your Foot Problems
Here are just a few common foot problems for which you may need to see a podiatrist.
Foot Pain
If you’ve been experiencing foot pain for more than 48 hours, it’s time to see a podiatrist.
Pain can sometimes be fleeting, but when it just won’t go away, get a professional to find the root cause and the right treatment action.
Discoloured Toenails
Discolouration on your toenails can be a sign of a fungal infection. This will not usually disappear on its own.
Sometimes over the counter (OTC) medications can help, but if the infection is severe or has been untreated for a long period of time, prescription medicine may be required.
There are also other nail fungus treatments that your podiatrists can offer which may be even more effective and quick acting. At The Foot Hub, we offer Photodynamic Antimicrobial Therapy (PACT®) and Keryflex Nail Restoration.
Redness Or Warmth
If your foot is unusually warm to the touch, or showing signs of redness that are not fading over time, you should visit your podiatrist.
Itchiness is another foot problem which could be a common fungal infection, athlete’s foot, psoriasis, or something else. It’s best to get these symptoms checked out before they spread or become more severe.
Unusual Swelling
Swelling in any part of the body is never a good sign.
While there are many things that could cause swollen feet, such as a foot injury or an infection, it could be something more serious like venous insufficiency or a blood clot.
Numbness or Tingling
Numbness in your toes and feet is referred to as paraesthesia of the toes.
It can be caused by other conditions affecting the nerves or blood vessels to your feet. Poor circulation is often the root of tingling in the feet but this can be exacerbated by other medical issues like diabetes.
If you’re a diabetic and experiencing tingling or numbness in your feet, see your podiatrist immediately.
Growths Or Lumps
There are many growths that can affect your feet, from warts to corns and callouses.
They are often simple to remove and treat, and podiatrists have access to treatments that are not available over the counter and are much more effective and long-lasting.
Foot Injuries
If you’ve clearly injured your foot and it is not improving after 24-48 hours, it’s time to see your podiatrist. They can take a close look at the injury, find out exactly how your foot has been damaged, and recommend the best treatment for you.
Bone Deformities
Bone deformities like bunions and hammertoes should be closely monitored by your podiatrist.
In some cases you can manage the pain caused by the problem, but should anything change, more serious treatments could be a better course of action, and your podiatrist can help you decide what to do.
Foot Odours
If your foot smells and no amount of washing and topical treatments is working, you should make an appointment to see a podiatrist to find out why.
Foot odours can be caused by a bacterial infection which will need medical treatment. Your podiatrist can diagnose the kind of infection you have and find the best treatment for you.
Worried about your foot problems?
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