The human foot consists of 26 bones, 33 joints, and over a hundred ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Needless to say, the anatomy of the foot is complex. Like other parts of our body, our legs and feet are vulnerable not only to injury but to infection and disease as well.
Our feet do a lot for us, so it’s no surprise that the daily stress our feet are under can lead to injury. Overuse, improper footwear or safety equipment, accidents, and sports are common causes of foot and ankle injuries. Diabetes, athlete’s foot, ingrown toenails, and open wounds like cuts and blisters can all increase your risk of a foot infection.
Common Conditions Your Podiatrist Treats
A foot or ankle injury or infection can be painful, interfere with daily life, and make you more sedentary. This can lead to serious health problems such as weight gain, muscle weakness, and worsening heart function.
That’s why podiatrists are so important. Podiatrists are doctors specially trained in foot and ankle care. They can diagnose and treat many conditions, including:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Bunions
- Ingrown toenails
- Sprains, strains, and fractures in the foot or ankle
- Hammertoes
- Diabetic foot ulcers
- Flat feet
- Arthritis
- Corns and callouses
- Achilles tendonitis
The first recommendation your podiatrist will make is to change your shoes. Ill-fitting shoes can lead to a number of the conditions listed, so it’s always in your best interest to invest in quality footwear. Your podiatrist will use nonsurgical treatments and conservative therapies like orthotic inserts, splints, taping, professional debridement, corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, and medications.
Surgery is generally recommended as a last resort when all minimally or noninvasive treatment options have failed.
“Every day we take approximately 5,000 steps. When our feet hurt, it can begin to affect other parts of the body and mind. If you’re having foot pain that has not resolved, I recommend coming in for an evaluation so we can get you back to your activities.”
Keeping You on Your Feet
Foot and ankle injuries are some of the most common problems faced by Americans, yet very few seek help from a healthcare provider. A podiatrist keeps your feet healthy and can help manage your foot-health issues.
If you are having problems walking, feel a burning or tingling sensation in your feet, have sharp pain or sensitivity in the toes or feet, swelling or redness, it may be time to schedule a podiatry consultation. The highly-skilled podiatrists at Trinity Medical Podiatry are your trusted experts in foot and ankle care. Whatever your foot or ankle concern, we’ll work with you to ensure you make a full recovery and get back to living life pain free.
Schedule a Visit with Dr. Davidovich
Dr. Sarah Davidovich is board-certified in foot & ankle surgery. Dr. Davidovich sees patients at 2121 Main St in Buffalo, NY. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Davidovich, call (716) 995-7789.
