A podiatrist is a specialist of the feet and ankles. Regardless of what your podiatric problems may be, whether it affects the skin or the underlying structures such as the bones, joints, and soft tissues, a podiatrist can certainly help. From injuries to chronic pain, this is the specialist you should make an appointment with whenever you experience issues with the foot or ankle.
Wondering if you need a podiatrist? Read on to learn about the many types of people who require podiatric care.
Foot and Ankle Pain Sufferers
If you are experiencing persistent pain or discomfort in your feet or ankles, it could be due to many different causes, from the wrong footwear or arthritisto an ankle sprain, plantar fasciitis, or bunions. Podiatrists have years of training and experience and can quickly diagnose the underlying cause of your condition and get you started on treatment for relief.
Athletes and Physically Active Individuals
People with physically active lifestyles, such as those involved in sports or other high-impact activities are prone to foot and ankle injuries. Podiatrists can offer valuable guidance for preventing and managing conditions like sprains, stress fractures, Achilles tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis, which are common among active individuals. In addition, they can recommend appropriate footwear and orthotics to enhance performance and reduce the risk of injuries.
Patients with Diabetes
Diabetes can have a significant impact on foot health. Nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor circulation are common complications that can lead to numbness or loss of sensation, slow wound healing, foot ulcers, and infections. Podiatrists play a crucial role in managing diabetic foot, through regular examinations, diabetic wound care, and promptly treating complications that may arise.
Individuals with Foot Deformities
Conditions like bunions, hammertoes, flat feet, and high arches can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty with walking or wearing certain shoes. A podiatrist can assess these deformities, offer conservative treatment options, provide recommendations for appropriate footwear, measure the foot for custom orthotics, and if necessary, discuss surgical interventions to correct the issue.
Seniors
As we age, our feet undergo changes, not only changing in size and shape, but also losing fat on the bottom of the heel and a weakening of the tendons and ligaments. This increases the likelihood of many issues, such as plantar fasciitis pain, arthritis, balance issues, chronic ankle sprains, and more.
Individuals with Skin Issues
Podiatrists are highly experienced in treating fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot and toenail fungus, which are common foot problems that are stubborn to treat. Other skin issues, such as corns, calluses, blisters, and warts, are also expertly treated by foot and ankle specialists.
Top Podiatrist in Naples, FL
For the comprehensive and highly effective treatment of all your foot and ankle issues, trust Dr. Cody Togher at the Joint Replacement Institute with your care. Dr. Togherwill treat your feet with conservative methods, but if needed, can also perform cutting-edge surgical procedures, for which he has undergone fellowship training. We look forward to supporting and seeing you through your recovery. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Togher, call our office today at (239) 261-2663 or use our convenient online request form.
