According to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), a survey conducted in 2014 revealed that nearly 8 in 10 Americans have encountered a foot problem in their lives. Individuals who experienced regular foot pain were also found to be more likely to have other body issues, such as knee pain, back pain, weight problems, and even eyesight and skin issues.
Many individuals don’t think about their foot health on a daily basis. However, knowing when to see a podiatrist for foot pain, physical abnormalities, and minor sources of discomfort is essential to protecting your feet and mobility.
What Does A Podiatrist Treat?
Many people who suffer from foot pain often ignore it, either because they feel they can “tough it out” or they simply don’t know where to go to get help. Our podiatrists in Hyde Park of Chicago are able to treat all types of foot and ankle injuries and conditions, from fungal infections, to arch pain and plantar fasciitis.
How Can A Podiatrist Help Me?
If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain, mild discomfort, itching, or other podiatric issues, an experienced podiatrist will be able to diagnose the problem and offer various treatment methods.
Below is a list of some of the most common symptoms patients experience that our foot specialists at Mitchell Foot & Ankle, P.C. can help address:
- Heel Pain
- Arch Pain
- Toe Pain
- Ankle Pain
- Bunions
- Warts
- Corns
- Calluses
- Itching
- Ankle Imbalance
- Fallen Arches
- Blisters
- Poor Circulation
- Numbness or Swelling
Some conditions our podiatrists treat regularly include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Athlete’s Foot & Other Fungal Infections – Chronic fungal infections that don’t respond to over the counter creams and powders may need to be treated by a professional.
- Toenail Fungus – Toenail fungus should be diagnosed and treated by a foot specialist as soon as symptoms arise.
- Ingrown Toenails – Ingrown toenails may heal over time with proper at-home foot care, but if the condition persists, it can lead to extreme pain and even infection.
- Plantar Fasciitis – Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common sources of heel pain. It can be difficult to treat because you have to find the middle ground between proper exercise and resting the affected ligament. A treatment regimen can be created by your podiatrist to ensure your condition does not worsen while it’s healing.
- Heel Spurs – Heel spurs are associated with plantar fasciitis and can be quite painful. A podiatrist can treat this condition with various methods, from custom orthotics to steroid injections.
- Hammer Toe – There are various treatment options for hammer toe, from massage therapy and stretching, to surgery. A podiatrist can suggest a treatment plan that includes more than one method for relieving your pain.
- Symptoms Associated with Diabetes – Diabetes can cause damage to blood vessels, joints, foot neuropathy, joint pain, and infections. Foot-related conditions associated with diabetes may be prevented or delayed with regular visits to a podiatrist.
- Achilles Tendonitis – Achilles tendonitis is most commonly caused by overuse of the Achilles tendon. It takes a long time to heal this condition, and symptoms include pain, swelling, immobility, stiffness, leg weakness, etc. A podiatrist can cultivate the ideal treatment regimen for your condition and your lifestyle.
- Calluses, Corns, & Bunions – Calluses and corns can be shaved down by a podiatrist to relieve discomfort. Bunions, unlike corns and calluses, form on the inside of your foot. A podiatrist can perform X-rays to determine the severity and cause of this condition before prescribing proper treatment.
If you’re dealing with any of the above listed symptoms or conditions, contact Mitchell Foot & Ankle, P.C. today. Our goal is to restore mobility and comfort to your life by treating and managing all types of podiatric issues.
We invite you to schedule an appointment and allow our specialists to help protect the health of your feet and ankles. Contact us online or when you call (773) 324-3338 today.