You depend on your feet to get you through the day, so when you suffer from foot or ankle problems, walking, can be painful. Whether you suffer from bunions or painful ankle arthritis, a podiatrist can treat your foot and ankle problems. The podiatric team at Mullica Foot and Ankle are your Mullica Hill, NJ, podiatrists.
What is a podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a medical doctor who treats the feet and ankles. Podiatrists are able to treat many different foot and ankle problems using a variety of therapies and surgical procedures. There are several excellent podiatrists in Mullica Hill, NJ.
What types of foot problems do podiatrists treat?
Podiatrists treat bone and soft tissue problems, as well as nerve conditions affecting the feet or ankles. Bone problems include bunions, hammertoes, heel spurs and fractures. Soft tissue problems include muscle pain, tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, sprained ankles, flat feet and painful arches. Nerve conditions include neuroma and neuropathy. Neuroma is a condition associated with sharp pain in the toes. Neuropathy is a condition characterized by numbness or a burning sensation in the toes that can include sharp pain, as well.
What other conditions do podiatrists treat?
In addition to foot, soft tissue and nerve problems of the feet and ankles, podiatrists also treat several types of skin problems and some medical conditions. Skin problems routinely treated by podiatrists include corns and calluses on the toes or feet, athlete’s foot, warts on the feet, fungal infections on the toenails or feet and sores or ulcers on the feet. Medical conditions that can be treated by a podiatrist include arthritis in the ankles, hot or cold feet, ingrown toenails and other toenail problems.
When should I see a podiatrist?
If you have developed a painful foot condition or have specific concerns about your feet, then it is time to see a podiatrist. In fact, you should see a podiatrist as soon as possible if you are already struggling with foot or ankle pain and discomfort. Not only can untreated foot problems become increasingly more painful over time and limit mobility, they can ultimately cause pain in the knees, hips and lower back, as well. A podiatrist can treat your foot problems, provide relief from the pain and discomfort and prevent your foot problems from getting worse.
What happens during the podiatric appointment?
During your first visit to the podiatrist, the doctor will evaluate your foot condition. In order to properly diagnose the problem, the podiatrist will likely ask about your medical history, perform a physical exam and conduct diagnostic tests, such as x-rays, if needed. After the podiatrist makes a diagnosis, he or she will suggest possible treatments for your particular condition. Some treatment methods might require follow-up appointments with the podiatrist.