Your feet and ankles provide support, balance, and mobility. However, they are also prone to several conditions and injuries which can greatly reduce your quality of life. Read more about foot and ankle issues on this page: https://www.coveorthopaedics.com.sg/ankle-instability-common-causes-treatment-options/
The medical professional you will want to see when you have an issue with your feet or ankles is a foot and ankle specialist. With that in mind, we created this guide to clarify which conditions may warrant a visit to a foot and ankle specialist.
Also on this page, you will learn what a good foot and ankle specialist may recommend for your feet. Let’s begin!
What Does a Foot and Ankle Specialist Treat?
Many people view foot and ankle issues as minor or temporary problems. Often people attribute these issues to overuse or aging.
In fact, many people choose to ignore them unless pain or mobility significantly worsens. This brings us to the question; what does a foot and ankle specialist treat and when do you need to see one?
Just as the name suggests, foot and ankle specialists treat conditions which affect the lower extremities. Here are some common issues that may warrant a visit to a foot and ankle specialist near you:
- Sports Injuries: Sprains, strains, and fractures are common among athletes. Foot and ankle specialists provide accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans for these issues to ensure complete recovery and reduce risks of a potential recurrence.
- Bunions: Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe. They can cause pain and discomfort. If you’re seeing a foot and ankle specialist for bunions, they may recommend orthotics, physical therapy, or surgery to correct the deformity.
- Plantar Fasciitis: This condition involves inflammation of the tissue which connects your heel to your toes. It causes heel pain, especially in the morning. For treatment, you may be recommended stretches, custom orthotics, or shockwave therapy.
- Flat Feet: Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet collapse. This condition is usually a result of genetics, weak arches, injury, obesity, aging, arthritis, or undeveloped arches in children. It can cause pain and misalignment. Specialists can provide orthotics or suggest exercises to improve support.
- Arthritis: Arthritis can affect the joints in your feet and ankles. Depending on severity, it can cause pain and stiffness. When seeing a foot and ankle specialist for arthritis, the treatment will focus on pain relief, improving mobility, and slowing the progression of the disease.
- Diabetic Foot Problems: Diabetes can lead to serious foot issues like ulcers or infections. If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetic foot problems, your foot and ankle specialist will recommend regular check-ups, wound care, and preventive advice to avoid complications.
- Achilles Tendon Disorders: Injuries or inflammation of the Achilles tendon can cause significant discomfort. Depending on the severity, the disorders on this part of the foot can make moving around difficult or even impossible in extreme cases. Your foot and ankle specialist may recommend treatments like physical therapy, bracing, or surgery in severe cases.
- Toenail Problems: Toenail problems include issues like ingrown toenails or fungal infections. Unsurprisingly, they’re quite common. For these issues, a good foot and ankle specialist can offer effective solutions ranging from minor procedures to medications.
How Do I Know If My Foot Pain Is Serious?
Foot pain is common, however not all pain requires medical attention. But still, you don’t want to wait for your foot pain to get serious before seeing a specialist.
If you have been experiencing foot pain that is bothering you, get in touch with a foot and ankle specialist for personalized treatment and care. Here are some signs that indicate you should see a specialist:
- Persistent Pain: Pain lasting more than a few days, even with rest, is a red flag. This symptom is especially a huge concern if it comes with swelling or bruising. Significant swelling or discoloration could indicate a fracture or severe injury.
- Difficulty Walking: If you can’t bear weight on your foot, seek medical help immediately. The same applies for if you’ve noticed visible changes in the shape of your foot which may suggest a serious problem. If the difficulty is accompanied by numbness or tingling, it could indicate nerve damage or poor circulation.
- Open Wounds: Cuts or sores that don’t heal, especially in diabetic patients, may indicate poor blood circulation, infection, or diabetic neuropathy. On the same note, redness, warmth, or pus could indicate an infection that needs immediate treatment.
What Will a Foot Doctor Do for You?
Foot and ankle specialists offer comprehensive care to diagnose and treat conditions which affect the lower extremities. When visiting a foot and ankle specialist, the first thing you should expect is a thorough assessment.
The specialist will review your medical history and ask about your symptoms. They may examine your foot and ankle to identify the cause of the problem.
They may then recommend diagnostic tests like X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds. These specific tests can give a detailed view of your condition.
They also help confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment. Depending on your condition, the specialist will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. This may include:
- Medications: To reduce pain or inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: To restore strength and flexibility.
- Orthotics: Custom shoe inserts for better support.
- Injections: Corticosteroids or other treatments to manage pain.
If conservative treatments don’t work, you might be recommended surgery. Procedures range from minor corrections to complex reconstructive surgeries.
A good foot and ankle specialist will also provide advice on preventing future issues. This includes tips on proper footwear, exercises, and lifestyle changes.
With that out of the way, here are some scenarios where consulting a specialist is advisable:
- Chronic Pain: Pain that doesn’t improve with rest or over-the-counter medications.
- Recurring Injuries: Frequent ankle sprains or other injuries that don’t fully heal.
- Reduced Mobility: Difficulty walking or performing daily activities.
- Visible Deformities: Bunions, hammertoes, or other abnormalities.
- Underlying Conditions: Diabetes or arthritis affecting your feet.
Wrapping Up
An appointment with a foot and ankle specialist could be all you need to know for sure what is causing the lower extremity issues you’re having and getting them treated. If you’re experiencing foot or ankle problems, consult a specialist today for a thorough assessment and treatment planning. If you’re in Singapore, get in touch with a knowledgeable provider today at;
Cove Orthopaedic Clinic @ Mount Elizabeth Orchard – Orthopaedic Surgeon Singapore
3 Mount Elizabeth, #14-13 Medical Centre, Singapore 228510
