Monday, March 24, 2014

When To See An Austin Foot Doctor

By Leticia Jensen


It is no coincidence that the common expression about standing on your own two feet is so popular. The ability to stand, to walk and to run is taken for granted by most people and it is only when this ability is diminished that people understand just how important their feet, ankles and related limbs are. Problems in this area are common and varied, as any Austin foot doctor will confirm.

Podiatrists, the proper name for a medical practitioner that specializes in the treatment of the lower legs and the feet, are not only qualified as medical practitioners, but they also have to undergo intensive further training before they are allowed to practice as specialists. Podiatrists are trained to offer both medical and surgical treatment options, one of very few medical specialist fields that do so.

The feet can be injured by a host of things. However, the main reason for injury to the feet remains the wearing of the wrong type of shoes. Perhaps it is not strange to learn that the vast majority of patients seen by podiatrists are female and that the vast majority of problems can be directly ascribed to the wearing of high heeled shoes. The second most vulnerable group is active sportspeople.

Luckily, much can be done to prevent disease and injury to the feet. Of course, the most sensible precaution is to wear shoes that fit properly and that are designed for the purpose for which they are used. Sportspeople, especially, should take heed. Shoes are designed for specific types of movements and it is vital to buy the shoes specially designed for a specific sporting activity.

Another important part of preventing problems is to pay close attention to hygiene. The feet must be kept clean and dry all the time and special attention should be paid to the areas between the toes. This is where fungal growths often originate. It is also vital to leave any growths, such as calluses and corns alone. A surprising number of serious problems occur after people attempted to treat such problems at home.

It is important to seek medical help at the first signs of pain or swelling. By ignoring discomfort the problem may be aggravated. Also, if the knees, lower legs ankles or feet are injured during sports or other activities, a doctor should be seen as soon as possible. Where possible, a podiatrist should be seen and not the usual family medical practitioner.

Patients that experience problems in this area should ask their general practitioner to refer them to a specialist. Many general practitioners that treat such problems in their own consulting rooms simply do not have the experience or knowledge necessary to identify and diagnose potentially serious problems. They end up treating the symptoms and may unwittingly cause more harm than good.

A Podiatrist can help their patients to look after their feet and ankles. Many specialists concentrate on helping their patients to prevent serious problems. With proper care, good hygiene and an awareness of the importance of looking after the feet nobody should experience pain or reduced mobility.




About the Author:



0 comments:

Post a Comment