7 Signs That It’s Time to See a Podiatrist

Your feet spend quite a bit of time carrying your body weight and bearing the brunt of everyday life, so it’s not surprising that people feel aches and pains in their ankles and feet at times. However, some problems can be quite serious and might require the attention of a podiatrist. Today Dr. Stuart Snyder and Dr. Sara Sharma of Maple Springs Foot Center, LLC share the top seven signs that it’s time to schedule an appointment. 

You’re becoming a serious runner. Running is a great form of exercise that improves your muscular development, strength, and heart health while alleviating stress. However, the steady impact with the ground can cause aches and pains and damage your feet. If you’re starting to run on a regular basis for the first time, you should be aware of the potential issues that come with the running lifestyle. 

You’re experiencing pain in your ankle or foot. Arthritis is one of the most widespread ailments that affects millions of people each year. Swollen, stiff, red, and painful joints are often a sign of this condition. With the right treatment, you’ll be able to maintain your joint function and control pain. 

You have been diagnosed with diabetes. As a diabetic, you’re at a much higher risk for ankle- and foot-related conditions, which can range from dry skin to serious infections. Even a small bruise or cut can have severe effects on your body, so if you suffer from diabetes, visit your podiatrist at least once a year. 

Pain in your heel is slowing you down. Heel pain can affect the function of your legs, feet and lower back. There are numerous reasons why you might experience extreme or persistent heel pain. Diagnosis is the first step in treating it so schedule a consultation with your podiatrist if your heel pain doesn’t subside. 

You have an ingrown toenail. An ingrown toenail happens when your toenail grows into the skin, thereby increasing your risk for infection. Toenails that are reddish or draining are often a sign of an ingrown toenail. During your visit, your podiatrist might remove part of the toenail or prescribe medication to deal with the infection. 

You might have sprained or broken a bone. Just one awkward step can leave you with a strain, a sprained ankle, or a broken bone. If you feel sharp pains and think you may have damaged your ankle or foot, visit your podiatrist to get a diagnosis for your injury. 

You have a painful bunion. A large bump at the base of your big toe is known as a bunion, and it occurs when the joint or bone of your big toe is out of place. This condition will only worsen without treatment, so don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment. 

Monitor your foot health, and if you’re concerned about  the condition of your feet, or think you might have an infection or injury, it’s important that you call the offices of Dr. Stuart Snyder and Dr. Sara Sharma of Maple Springs Foot Center, LLC today to schedule an appointment. You can reach us at (301) 762-3338 to schedule an appointment or book it online.