One of the most burdened parts of the human body is the limbs and the legs in particular. Athletes and those who engage in strenuous physical activity more often experience this. Professional athletes are especially sensitive to these difficulties since they might have a negative impact on their ability to make a living. This trend has resulted in the rise of specialists like the New York podiatric surgeon. Podiatric surgeons are uniquely qualified to deal with disorders affecting your lower limbs and other structures associated with your legs. More emphasis is placed on these below.
Who is a podiatric surgeon?
This is a physician who specializes in diagnosing and treating problems of the foot, ankle, and lower leg. Podiatric surgeons are trained in both surgical and nonsurgical treatments of foot and ankle problems. They may perform surgery to correct deformities or to remove tumors. They may also prescribe medications or use other nonsurgical treatments, such as orthotics (devices that support and align the foot and ankle) or physical therapy.
Podiatric surgeons must complete four years of undergraduate, four years of medical school, and three years of residency training in podiatric surgery.
Conditions that podiatric surgeons treat
Bunions: This is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. Bunions are painful and make it difficult to wear shoes.
Hammertoes: This is a toe bent at the middle joint, causing the toe to look like a hammer. Hammertoes are also painful and make it difficult to wear shoes.
Heel spurs: This is a bony growth that forms on the heel. Heel spurs are painful and make it challenging to walk.
Arch problems: These can cause pain in the feet and lower legs. Common arch problems include flat feet and high arches.
Ingrown toenails: These toenails grow into the skin. Ingrown toenails can be painful and can lead to infection.
Foot and ankle injuries: Podiatric surgeons treat injuries to the foot and ankle, such as fractures and sprains.
Treatment
Treatment options for these problems include: Podiatric surgeons may perform surgery to correct deformities or to remove tumors.
Medications: Podiatric surgeons may prescribe medications to treat foot and ankle problems. Orthotics are appliances that support and align the foot and ankle. Orthotics can be used to treat problems such as bunions, hammertoes, and heel spurs.
Physical therapy can be used to treat problems such as arch problems and foot and ankle injuries.
Prevention
Podiatric surgeons may provide preventive care to help patients avoid foot and ankle injuries. Some tips for preventing foot and ankle injuries include:
Wear shoes that fit properly: Those that are too big or too small can cause foot and ankle problems.
Wear shoes that are proper for what you are doing. For example, wear sneakers when you are playing sports.
Wear comfortable shoes: Uncomfortable shoes can cause foot and ankle problems.
If you are doing an activity that is causing foot or ankle pain, take a break.
Stretch: Stretch your feet and ankles before and after exercise.
If you have foot or ankle pain, see a podiatric surgeon. Podiatric surgeons can help you find the proper treatment for your problem. For inquiries into podiatric treatment plans, go to our webpage, or call our facilities in New York.
