When to See an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist: A Guide for Patients

 

As humans, we spend a significant portion of our lives on our feet. It is, therefore, unsurprising that foot and ankle injuries are quite common. If you experience any discomfort, pain, or swelling in your feet and ankles, it may be time to seek medical attention. While general practitioners can treat many foot and ankle conditions, an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist is better equipped to deal with complex cases.

At Apache Foot & Ankle Specialists, we have seen our fair share of foot and ankle injuries, and we understand the importance of prompt treatment. In this guide, we will discuss when to see an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist.

When to Seek Medical Attention

• Persistent Pain: If you have persistent pain in your foot or ankle that doesn't go away with rest, it's time to see a specialist. This could indicate a more serious condition that needs immediate attention.
• Swelling and Inflammation: Swelling and inflammation are common signs of an injury or infection. If you experience swelling or inflammation that doesn't go away, it's time to see an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist.
• Difficulty Walking: If you find it challenging to walk, even short distances, without pain, you should see a specialist. Difficulty walking could indicate a structural issue that requires treatment.
• Limited Range of Motion: If you experience limited range of motion in your foot or ankle, it could indicate a more severe injury. This condition requires the attention of an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist.
• Foot and Ankle Surgery: If you have had previous foot and ankle surgery, it is crucial to see a specialist for follow-up appointments. These appointments will help you maintain good foot health and prevent further complications.

Why See an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist?

• Specialized Knowledge: Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialists have specialized knowledge and training in treating foot and ankle injuries. They can diagnose and treat conditions that general practitioners may not have the expertise to manage.
• Personalized Treatment Plans: Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialists offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. They understand that each patient is unique and requires individualized care.
• Preventative Care: Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialists can also provide preventative care to help you maintain good foot and ankle health. Regular check-ups can detect any underlying issues before they become more severe.

When to Consider Ankle and Foot Surgery

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat foot and ankle injuries. Here are some instances when surgery may be the best option:

• Severe Injuries: Injuries that are severe, such as broken bones or torn ligaments, may require surgery to repair.
• Chronic Conditions: Chronic conditions such as arthritis may cause severe pain and discomfort, making surgery the best option to manage symptoms.
• Sports Injuries: Athletes who suffer severe injuries may require surgery to restore normal function.

Conclusion

At Apache Foot & Ankle Specialists, we understand the importance of prompt medical attention for foot and ankle injuries. If you experience any pain, swelling, or difficulty walking, it's time to see an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist. Our team of experts offers personalized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. We are committed to providing the best possible care to help you maintain good foot and ankle health.

What is a Podiatrist Doctor? When should You Visit a Podiatrist?

 

Podiatrists in Las Vegas can treat foot and lower-leg injuries and complications like diabetes. They can treat people of many ages with multiple foot-related concerns. In case you have any foot-related issues or if you are experiencing symptoms like foot-swelling, numbness or nail fungus, etc you must consult a podiatrist.

 

What is a podiatrist doctor?

 

Medical specialists who treat people with feet and lower leg problems are referred to as podiatrists. Unlike other doctors, they don’t attend a traditional medical school. They are certified by relevant professional associations and use DPM after their name instead of MD.

 

Take a look at the medical conditions a podiatrist can treat.

 

Numbness or swelling

 

Swelling after a long race or standing on your feet all day is quite obvious. However, sudden pain or swelling for no apparent reason could be a sign of a serious problem.

 

Nail fungus

 

Do you know the increasing cases of toenail infections have increased with the growing number of nail salons? When nails are left untreated it causes infection and it becomes thick and discolored. Eventually, it keeps spreading to other nails.

 

Consistent heel pain

 

Heel pain causes by various reasons. A podiatrist would ask you to perform an x-ray to determine the cause of the pain. Based on the underlying condition, they would develop the treatment process.

 

Reoccurring condition of athlete's foot

 

It is considered to be the most common fungal infection and is generally treated with creams and sprays. However, if this condition keeps coming back, it's better to consult a podiatrist.

 

If you have diabetes

 

If you are a patient of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, you have a higher risk to develop foot problems like nerve damage, ulcer, poor blood circulation, and other infection. In that case, you should visit a podiatrist at least once a year.

 

Joint pain in the ankle

 

If the joint pain persists even after taking anti-inflammatory medicines, it’s time to visit a specialist to determine the root cause of the pain. Doctors can determine a long-term treatment plan to get rid of the pain.

 

Wrapping up

 

In case you are undergoing any medical condition you should consult a Podiatrist in Las Vegas.