Your feet form the foundation that helps you stand, walk, and run, all while supporting the rest of your body’s weight. Unfortunately, despite the importance of your feet, numerous foot issues go unnoticed because individuals are not sure what is normal and what is not. However, the feet should function naturally and without any issues. Therefore, if you suspect or identify issues with your feet, you should visit a podiatrist Newnan. Podiatrists are physicians who specialize in the feet, ankles, and related structures in the leg. Here are the telltale signs that you should visit a foot doctor.
- Excessive Pain
One of the surefire signs that you should visit a foot doctor is if there is intense discomfort. Numerous individuals who stand on their feet all day might not notice anything, but if the discomfort is ongoing or sharp, this could indicate an issue. Your podiatrist will help determine the underlying cause of the pain and help you develop a suitable care plan.
- Trouble Walking
If you experience walking difficulties, this is another sign that you should visit your foot doctor immediately. Your feet are responsible for walking, so if there is any issue, it is crucial to have them examined by a foot specialist. Walking should be comfortable and natural, but sometimes the feet experience internal issues because of poor habits or genetics. A podiatrist can establish what could be triggering the walking difficulty.
- Swelling
Another sign you should see a podiatrist is if your feet are swollen. Swelling signifies that the feet are reacting to an external or internal problem. Most issues related to the feet can lead to swelling, which can cause issues standing or walking. Your podiatrist will perform the necessary diagnostic procedures to determine the cause of your foot swelling and suggest suitable treatment.
- Numbness
Sometimes after sitting for a while, individuals experience a numbing sensation in their feet or legs, which could be entirely normal. Nonetheless, if the numbness is ongoing and excessive, then it might signify a greater issue.
Everybody experiences occasional tingling sensations after long periods of rest, or when their feet fall asleep, but if this issue lasts, it requires professional intervention. In most cases, numbness means you have an underlying foot condition that affects the nerves in your feet.
- Stiffness
As with numbness, stiffness in the feet could also be detrimental to an individual’s well-being. Although some stiffness might seem normal following a day of being on your feet or running, extreme rigidity is not. Ongoing stiffness can result in other foot problems like reduced mobility, which is why it is important to see a podiatrist.
The state of your feet could affect your general well-being. Any issues you have, whether pain, swelling, or more, should be examined by a professional, particularly if it is not resolved within several weeks. Foot and ankle issues could be due to chronic health issues like diabetes or arthritis. Still, even everyday situations like poorly fitting shoes or overuse can result in temporary acute pain. Whatever the cause, you will likely obtain more speedy diagnosis and care recommendations from a podiatrist. While conservative treatments are common for most foot issues, surgery could also be necessary based on the severity of your condition.
