If you're like most people, you probably only think about your feet when they hurt. And if that's the case, then it's likely that you only go to a podiatrist when there's something seriously wrong. But did you know that regular foot checkups can help prevent problems from developing in the first place? If you're not sure whether or not it's time to see a podiatrist, keep reading. We'll discuss some of the signs that indicate it might be time for a visit.
Persistent Foot Pain
Foot pain that disrupts your daily activities or keeps you from enjoying your favorite hobbies is a big sign that something might be wrong. This could be anything from dull aches, sharp pains, or tingling/numbness that makes it difficult to walk or stand. We are all born with structural issues that can cause fatigue and lead to painful feet. We use traditional treatments in conjunction with cutting-edge laser therapy to get you better faster. But the longer you wait to get your foot pain treated (I’m looking at you teachers, nurses, and factory workers), the higher the risk of serious injury and being non-weight bearing in a boot or cast. Instead of your feet working against you, we can make sure that your feet work for you.
Changes in Foot Appearance
Another thing to look out for are changes in the appearance of your feet. This could be anything from new lumps and bumps to changes in skin texture or a new mole. Everyone knows who Bob Marley is, but did you know that he died from melanoma that originated on his foot? We don’t want to scare you, but it is always a good idea to get any new bumps or moles checked out to rule out malignancy.
Changes in Nail Appearance
If you notice any changes in your toenails, such as color changes, thickness changes, or crumbling nails, it could be a sign of fungus. Fungus will start out as little white dots on your toenails. This is called superficial white onychomycosis. This is the time to come in for an appointment. We can nip fungus in the bud quickly with Repair and a round of laser treatments at this stage. We can still treat fungus if you wait to come in and the nails become thick, but it will just be a longer process for you as the nail often has to be removed prior to treatment in this case.
We understand that it can be uncomfortable and embarrassing to come to the podiatrist about nail fungus, but we can assure you that you have nothing to be embarrassed about. Rest assured, we see this condition all the time and want to help you get a healthy toenail again. In fact, you can check out our YouTube channel to see the types of fungus we treat.
You Are Diabetic or Pre-diabetic
Foot health is paramount for diabetics. Diabetes can affect the sensation in your feet (neuropathy) and your ability to heal wounds. It is a good idea to see your podiatrist at least once a year for a comprehensive diabetic foot exam (CDFE). Since you are more prone to infections as a diabetic, you should not be trimming your own nails. Most insurance companies cover diabetics to have their nails trimmed once every 9 weeks. If you want to know what to expect from a professional nail trim, check out this video.
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, don’t wait! Call us at 859-264-1141 or schedule an appointment online. The longer you wait, the worse the problem will become. We are here to help you get on the path to healthy feet. Trust us, your feet will thank you for it!