How Often Should You Visit a Podiatrist - Ankle and Foot Specialist (2024)

FAQs

How Often Should You Visit a Podiatrist - Ankle and Foot Specialist? ›

If you have any foot issues, it's recommended to see a podiatrist as often as every three months to ensure great foot health. Diabetics should see a podiatrist at a minimum once a year, even if they don't experience complications. Diabetics at higher risk for complications should be seen as often as every 2-3 months.

It's crucial to have your feet examined by your podiatrist at least once per year. If you experienced a loss of sensation in your feet or you suffered from foot ulcers in the past, you should see your podiatrist every three to six months.

A foot and ankle orthopedic surgeon performs complex surgical procedures, not performed by a podiatrist. There can be some overlap in what a podiatrist treats and what an orthopedic foot and ankle specialist treats such as the simpler conditions of sprains and strains.

In most cases, serious foot problems can be prevented. You can do this by checking your feet yourself every day, and having a foot check at least once a year that's arranged by your GP practice.

Every doctor is different; some thrive on seeing a large number of patients and prefer high volume; some simply run out of energy after seeing a cer- tain number of patients in a day. So, what is the “right number”? There isn't a right answer, but a very good rule of thumb is 32 patients per day per doctor.

Common problems that podiatrists treat include bunions, heel pain, ingrown toenails, and athlete's foot. Treatment methods used by podiatrists can vary depending on the specific condition but often include things like orthotic devices, braces, or surgery.

Foot doctors, also known as podiatrists, can diagnose the root cause of swollen feet and offer targeted treatment to alleviate the discomfort and any potential health risks. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist promptly if you are experiencing persistent swollen feet.

Podiatrists specialize in foot and ankle care. Conversely, orthopedists cater to general musculoskeletal problems. Although an orthopedist technically has studied foot and ankle problems, a podiatrist specializes in them. This specialization allows a podiatrist to better address issues unique to your foot and ankle.

The truth is that foot and ankle orthopedic surgeons have the most comprehensive training available for nonsurgical treatment options and have the highest level of qualifications to diagnose the root cause of any foot or ankle problem.

As a general rule, if foot pain is your only issue, a podiatrist is a great choice. If you have pain all throughout your body, such as the neck and back, you should see an orthopedic doctor. If you can find a doctor that is trained in both orthopedics and podiatry, that is much better in the long run.

What are the first signs of diabetes in the feet? ›

Wear socks or stockings with shoes. Wear socks without seams. Avoid tight-fitting socks and garters. Wear socks in bed if your feet are cold at night.

Why does diabetes cause pain in your feet? When you have diabetes, high blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels. The nerves and blood vessels supplying the feet are long and delicate. Because of that, the feet — and especially the toes — often get affected first.

It is important to see a podiatrist regularly for healthier feet and ankles. They are able to identify minor problems early on and take steps to prevent them from becoming worse. A podiatrist also ensures injuries heal properly so long term problems, such as pain and instability, do not develop.

A DPM has a comparable educational path to that of other types of doctors. With this level of schooling and training, it makes sense for them to earn more than many occupations while being on par with other physician specialists. There are also many sub-specializations within the specialty of podiatry.

Is podiatry studied in medical school? Although MDs/DOs may learn about foot care through their general studies, DPMs receive far more comprehensive education specifically related to foot an ankle pathologies. As a result, podiatry education and training is far more specialized than that of MDs/DOs.

Do not try cutting toenails by yourself if you have thick skin or corns; recommend using a podiatrist to help cut toenails. Patients should cut their toenails every 6-8 weeks.

Generally, for most people, it is recommended to get a full pedicure every 4 to 6 weeks. A full pedicure typically includes a foot soak, exfoliation, nail shaping, cuticle care, foot massage, and the application of nail polish.

Footcare. You should try to check your feet every day so you can notice any problems quickly. You should also wash your feet every day. Cutting and filing your toenails should only take 10 minutes, once a week.