Are you wondering if you should consult a podiatrist? You are not the only one who feels this way- 77% of adults in the United States have had foot discomfort or difficulties at some point in their lives. Nonetheless, only around a third of them visit a podiatrist. The expert podiatrist New York team encourages people to address foot problems before developing into emergencies. Proper foot care minimizes chronic pain, minimizes damage from disease and injury, and protects your foot health for the rest of your life. Here are some common indicators it is time to see a podiatrist at CHW cares.
1. You Have Ingrown Toenails
Some persons have ingrown toenails that never go away, while others get intermittent pain from a sharp toenail edge. In either case, a podiatrist can assist you.
One thing is certain: do not try to clip or file your ingrown toenails. Infection may hide beneath the ingrown toenail’s surface, causing more harm than you already have. However, a skilled podiatrist can treat ingrown toenails with various options, ranging from essential in-office treatments to invasive surgical operations. Besides, they can help you establish the root of your ingrown toenails to avoid them later on.
2. You Have Got Corns, Calluses, Or Bunions
Any irregularity or lump in the foot should be taken seriously. According to reports, corns, calluses, and bunions are the most common reasons for podiatry visits.
Dead skin cells accumulate on your foot, forming corns and calluses. They are generally caused by friction from shoes, but they are also linked to diabetes and other health issues. Unfortunately, at-home treatments, such as herbal soaks, can aggravate corns and calluses.
On the other hand, a bunion is an uncomfortable lump or bulge in the joint of the big toe. Often, bunions are triggered by hereditary conditions, poor walking practices, and ill-fitting shoes. Consult your podiatrist for the most up-to-date corns, calluses, and bunion treatment options.
3. Your Feet Are Cracked And Dry
It is natural to have dry feet occasionally. However, there is a far more significant concern when you have flaking skin or lengthy, dry cracks in your feet. Whereas most folks result in hydrating body creams to address these issues, such moisturizers, based on the perfumes and nutrients they contain, could eventually worsen your condition. A podiatrist can assist you in determining the source of your cracked or dry feet. As a result, it addresses the concerns appropriately and keeps them from progressing with time.
4. You Have Been Confirmed With Diabetes
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, you should see a podiatrist immediately. People with diabetes are far more likely to develop foot problems. Pay attention to shifts in your feet and share with your podiatrist. Typical foot concerns linked to people with diabetes include tingling, numbness, leg discomfort, open sores, cracking, peeling, inflammation, and skin tone changes.
5. You Have Chronic Pain
Pain can be debilitating and demoralizing. It is your body’s technique of warning you of an issue. Therefore, please do not dismiss it. Furthermore, do not be embarrassed if you cannot locate exactly where your pain is coming from or what set it off. Undefined pain could signify significant health problems such as diabetes, vascular illness, or peripheral neuropathy. Still, it might imply that you require some new kicks, habits adjustment, or tender loving care.
Regardless of your foot or ankle concern, it is vital to remain watchful and have your podiatrist accurately identify your issue. At CHW Cares, the highly skilled podiatrists could identify and expertly treat a range of lower extremity issues. Call the Washington Heights, NY office or book an appointment online to discuss your concerns with a podiatrist and discover the ideal care option.
