Foot pain can be bothersome and uncomfortable. It not only hinders your productivity but also affects your quality of life. Therefore, looking for a foot doctor or podiatrist is always a good choice to manage your foot pain.
Podiatrists are board-certified orthopedic doctors specializing in the foot, ankle, and leg conditions. Let’s discuss how they can help you and where you can go in Kingsport, TN, to find the best podiatrist.
Diagnose Foot Problems
A guided diagnosis of the foot problem is important for a podiatrist. He or she may begin with reviewing and visualizing the foot for obvious signs of a condition.
During a physical examination, a podiatrist will look for swelling, bruising, or skin discoloration that may be linked to a problem. He or she may also instruct you to walk around or mobilize your feet to discern if they are working just fine.
Initial screening can be helpful for a podiatrist to determine the right additional tests to give. A podiatrist can order the following:
Diagnostic Imaging
Diagnostic imaging helps visualize any bone fractures, dysfunctional blood vessels, and other structural abnormalities of the foot. Some imaging tools include X-rays, computerized tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound.
Laboratory Testing
Your podiatrist may request a blood test to determine if foot pain is due to an infection, inflammation, or autoimmune response. It may also help detect blood components linked to conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or gouty arthritis.
Quantitative Sensory Testing
Providers use this method to diagnose diabetic neuropathy or hypersensitivity, among other nerve problems. The test measures the nerves’ capacity to respond to temperature and vibrational changes.
Electromyography
The goal of this test is to measure the response of muscles to generated nerve impulses. An abnormal result may hint that a nerve issue may be causing foot pain.
Treat a Wide Range of Conditions
A podiatrist can treat and help you manage different foot conditions. Some of which include the following:
- A podiatrist can treat bone fractures, damaged tendons, and torn ligaments. They may use non-operative or surgical methodologies.
- Foot Pain. Podiatrists can recommend medications for inflammation due to arthritis, trauma, or other foot conditions. Depending on your needs, they can also suggest orthotic devices.
- Diabetic foot. A podiatrist can treat pain and infections caused by underlying medical conditions like diabetes.
- Nail and Skin Issues. They are not solely concerned with the bony structure of the foot. They can also treat ingrown and infected nails. Podiatrists also help treat skin conditions such as warts, corns, and athlete’s foot.
- Foot Abnormalities. Podiatrists are also experts in correcting structural conditions like hammertoe and flat feet. Depending on your condition, they may recommend physical therapy, orthotics, or surgery.
You Need Specialized Care
While many podiatrists can treat general foot issues, others also specialize in:
- Diabetes foot care
- Dermatological issues
- Pediatrics
- Geriatrics
- Neurologically linked conditions
- Autoimmune and inflammatory conditions
- Surgery, general or reconstructive
Podiatrists may also focus on treating specific conditions only. They are the experts to find if you have:
- Fractures
- Ligament tears or damage
- Tumors
- Skin conditions
- Nail problems
- Wound care needs
- Arterial disease
- Walking and gait problems
- Foot prosthetic needs
Prevent Future Injuries
Foot doctors can help you prevent further foot injuries and future pains. Even if you have a healthy pair of feet, booking a consultation with a podiatrist is a good practice. They can recommend good movement practices, correct footwear and insole choices, and a proper care regimen for your feet.
Early diagnosis and checkups can guide podiatrists in creating a personalized treatment plan for you. If you have an active lifestyle, a podiatrist can correct your foot pain before it results in unwanted injuries.
Top Notch Podiatrist in Kingsport, TN
Do not wait until your foot pain becomes unbearable. Initial consultation with a trusted podiatrist is cost-effective and can save you time and improve your health in the long run.
Here at Associated Orthopaedics, we provide our patients with comprehensive and patient-centered podiatry services. If you want to know more about how our podiatrists can help you, call us today at (423) 245-3161. You can also book an appointment online. We look forward to serving you.
