What Does a Foot Doctor Do?

If your feet hurt or something just doesn’t feel right, you might be wondering: What does a foot doctor do? Foot doctors, also called podiatrists, are medical experts who know everything about feet, ankles, and lower legs. They help with a lot of different problems.

Let’s break it down and answer the question, “​What does a foot doctor do?”

What is a Podiatrist or Foot Doctor?

A podiatrist, also known as a foot doctor, is a healthcare professional who focuses on foot, ankle, and lower leg problems. These foot and ankle specialists Mesa have special training that includes medical school and years of practice dealing with feet. Podiatrists earn a degree called Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM).

These doctors know how to spot issues, figure out what’s causing them, and decide on the best way to treat them. They can do everything, from giving advice on better shoes to performing surgery when needed. Some foot doctors focus on specific areas, like sports injuries or diabetic foot care. Others may handle a little bit of everything.

What Do Foot Doctors Treat?

Here’s another question: What does a foot doctor do for foot and ankle problems and issues? Here’s a rundown of what a foot doctor does and treats:

Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis)

This is when the tissue under your foot gets inflamed, usually from overuse. If your heel hurts, especially when you wake up, it could be plantar fasciitis. A foot doctor might suggest stretches, special insoles, or sometimes physical therapy.

Bunions

Bunions are bumps on the side of your big toe. They happen when your toe leans inward too much. Foot doctors can help by recommending comfy shoes, pads, or even surgery if it’s really bad.

Ingrown Toenails

When the edge of a toenail grows into your skin, it can be painful and might get infected. A foot doctor carefully trims the nail or, if needed, removes part of it. They can also give tips on how to cut your nails to avoid this.

Toenail Fungus

If your toenails are yellow, thick, or crumbly, you might have toenail fungus. A foot doctor can confirm this and give you medicine to clear it up. Sometimes, they use lasers or other treatments if it’s stubborn.

Diabetic Foot Problems

Diabetes can mess with your feet. You might not feel injuries or cuts, and wounds can take longer to heal. Foot doctors help by checking for problems, treating sores, and suggesting shoes that won’t hurt your feet.

Flat Feet

Some people don’t have an arch in their foot. This can cause pain or make it hard to walk. Foot doctors might suggest special insoles to support your arch and exercises to strengthen the muscles.

Athlete’s Foot

This itchy, red rash usually shows up between your toes. A foot doctor can confirm it’s a fungal infection and prescribe creams or oral meds to get rid of it.

Hammertoe

This happens when your toe bends in a way it shouldn’t, looking like a hammer. Podiatrists Gilbert can recommend exercises, padding, or even surgery if the toe is too stiff.

Achilles Tendonitis

If the back of your heel hurts or feels tight, it might be Achilles tendonitis. Foot doctors usually suggest resting, stretching, and sometimes wearing a brace to keep the tendon from getting worse.

Plantar Warts

These warts show up on the bottom of your foot. They’re caused by a virus and can be annoying to get rid of. A foot doctor might freeze them off or use stronger treatments to remove them.

Fractures and Sprains

If you twist your ankle or think you broke a bone, a foot doctor can help. They’ll take X-rays to see what’s going on and might put a cast or brace on your foot to keep it stable.

Neuroma

This is a thickening of nerve tissue, often between the toes. It can cause pain, burning, or a feeling like you’re stepping on a pebble. A foot doctor might suggest orthotics, anti-inflammatory medication, or surgery in severe cases.

Arthritis

Arthritis in the feet can make it hard to move around. Foot doctors help manage the pain with medication, joint injections, or even surgery when needed.

When Should I See a Podiatrist?

You need to go to a foot doctor or podiatrist when:

• You have constant foot or ankle pain.
• There’s swelling that won’t go away.
• Your toenails look thick, yellow, or infected.
• You have a sore that won’t heal.
• You can’t put weight on your foot.
• Your toes or feet feel numb or tingly.
• You notice a bump that keeps getting bigger.
• Walking is painful or awkward.

What Does a Podiatrist Do on First Visit?

Let’s see what to expect during an appointment with a podiatrist. Your first visit usually starts with some questions about your symptoms and medical history. The foot doctor will want to know how long you’ve had the problem and if anything makes it better or worse.

After talking, they’ll check your feet. This might include looking at how you walk, touching areas to see where it hurts, and checking your range of motion. They might also take an X-ray to get a better look at your bones.

Once they know what’s going on, they’ll explain the problem and suggest a treatment plan. This might include exercises, medications, or changes in your footwear. If surgery is needed, they’ll discuss the options with you.

Do You Need a Referral to See a Foot Doctor?

Most of the time, you don’t need a referral to see a foot doctor Chandler. You can just call and make an appointment. However, some insurance plans may require one, especially if you’re seeing a specialist.

You better check with your insurance before booking. If you need a referral, your primary care doctor can provide it. Seeing a podiatrist sooner rather than later can help catch problems before they get worse.

What is the Difference between a Foot Doctor and a Podiatrist?

Foot Doctor:

• General term for anyone who treats feet.
• Can include orthopedic doctors and general practitioners.

Podiatrist:

• Medical specialist with a DPM degree.
• Trained specifically in foot and ankle care.
• Can perform surgery.

Do Podiatrists Do Surgery?

Yes, podiatrists can do surgery. They handle things like bunion removal, tendon repairs, and even reconstructive surgeries for serious injuries. Surgery is usually the last option, but it’s good to know that foot doctors are trained for it when needed.

They’ll usually try other treatments first, like physical therapy or medication. If those don’t work, they’ll explain the surgery and what recovery will look like.

Best Foot Doctors and Podiatrists in Phoenix, Arizona

Stop looking for expert foot care in Phoenix, Arizona! At Foot and Ankle Specialty Centers, our podiatrists provide top-quality care for all foot and ankle problems. Whether it’s heel pain, sports injuries, or diabetic foot care, we’ve got you covered. Just call us today to book your appointment.

The Bottom Line

So, what does a foot doctor do? Foot doctors are your go-to experts for anything from simple issues like calluses to complex surgeries. They’re trained to help you walk comfortably again. Seeing a foot doctor early can make a big difference.

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