When thinking about your health, feet may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, studies have shown that the majority of Americans suffer from foot discomfort of some kind.
Usually people don’t realize how important foot health is until they start showing symptoms that indicate something may be wrong.
This may come about as heel pain, pressure on the arches, or ankle discomfort. Suddenly, it becomes difficult to do simple yet vital things, like standing or walking.
Yes, these issues may go away with time by merely applying ice to the pained area, resting, and/or opting for more supportive and comfortable footwear. But these symptoms may persist or even get worse.
That is when you should start to consider reaching out to a foot and ankle specialist, i.e.: podiatrist.
Podiatrist? I Thought It Was Spelled Pediatrist.
No, we are not talking about babies (pediatric). We are talking about feet (podiatric).
Podiatrists are medically and surgically trained physicians who specialize in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of foot and ankle conditions. Anything from reoccurring ingrown toenails, corns, calluses, unbearable arthritis pain, unsightly bunions and complications related to diabetes, podiatrists are your go-to professionals when looking to address these problems.
Being that we use our feet to do virtually everything in our day-to-day lives – we stand, we walk, we dance, we run – our feet are truly the foundation and “vehicle” to our bodies.
Why not make sure that they are healthy and happy? They do, after all, take us everywhere we want free of charge!
Are Your Feet Trying to Tell You Something?
Now, you may be wondering when the right time is to actually consider making an appointment with a podiatrist. Although minor aches after a full day of wearing unsupportive shoes may not call for such action, other symptoms may be a good indicator for something a little more serious which may require professional attention.
So, here are some signs that you may need to see a podiatrist:
- Severe pain on heels, arches, ankles, etc.
- Hot and/or swollen feet
- Numbness, burning, and tingling
- One foot appears to be flatter than the other
- Painful bumps/lumps and/or discoloration
- Bumps and lumps which grow in size
- Persistent wound or sore (does not heal)
- An increase in pain from activity that does not go away after 24 hrs.
If you are experiencing any of these sensations, it is a good idea to see a podiatrist as these symptoms may permanently affect your feet, ankles, calves, knees, and even your hips and lower back.
But not all hope is lost! If treated early, you can avoid further complications and consequential surgeries through conservative treatments.
Nip It in the Bud
The good news is that here at Lakes Foot and Ankle Associates, we can help you not only prevent, but also treat and correct most – if not all – foot and ankle related conditions you may be experiencing.
Indeed, we are your one-stop, all-inclusive podiatric practice.
As already mentioned, if caught early, conservative treatments (non-surgical) may be enough to correct whatever type of issue you are having. Some of our treatment options include:
- Padding and taping
- Shoe changes
- Oral and/or topical medication
- Orthotics
- Laser therapy, etc.
However, in the event that you and your podiatrist decide surgery to be the best option for treatment, we also provide office-based surgeries which are minimally invasive and even allow the patient to walk immediately.
These surgeries are meant to be less challenging to your daily living and significantly more cost effective. So, if that is the route you end up taking – no worries! – here at Lakes Foot and Ankle Associates, we aim for your comfort, from your toes to your pocket.
Get a Hold of Us
Ready to see what that pain is all about? Just give us a call at (248) 360-3888.
| Monday | 8:00am – 4:30pm |
| Tuesday | 9:00am – 4:30pm |
| Wednesday | 8:00am – 4:30pm |
| Thursday | 8:45am – 6:00pm |
| Friday | 7:30 am – 4:00pm |
| Saturday | – Closed – |
| Sunday | – Closed – |
