“What are the reasons to see a podiatrist? I can take care of my foot issues myself, right?”
If someone is asked whether they saw a podiatrist lately, the answer from most people would be a “no.” When asked about a dentist, on the other hand. They’d probably say that they know they ought to see one every six months or so, even if they don’t. Yet, the feet is the body’s way of getting from A to B, and they’re at least as important as teeth, albeit for different reasons. This article looks at top reasons people should see these underrated healthcare professionals with help from Mark Lin, a Sydney podiatrist known for his dedication to helping people enjoy the freedom of their feet.
5 Reasons to See a Podiatrist
1. A Child That is Starting to Walk
Parents are thrilled! Their little one is walking on his or her own. But, do you know that it is one of the reasons to see a podiatrist immediately?
There are many foot abnormalities that will begin to manifest now. Parents might not even notice it. But if they’re left for too long, they become harder to correct and treat, and although kids are resilient, issues like fallen arches, overpronation, and suboptimal alignment can cause a lot of problems later in life. Nine times out of ten, everything’s developing perfectly, but if a podiatrist can address abnormalities early on, a lot of pain, discomfort, and frustration can be spared. “Correcting foot and lower limb issues before they present noticeable symptoms is always easier than treating the damage caused by years of poor biomechanics,” says Mark.
2. Remaining Mobile While Aging
They may not be experience foot pain, but if you are aging, there are plenty of reasons to see a podiatrist. In fact, they’re feeling perfectly fine. Nevertheless, an analysis of their gait might reveal a ticking time bomb. They can wait until standing or walking becomes painful, but by then, there’s a lot of damage to address. Correcting foot and lower limb issues before they become a problem could mean better mobility when age begins to reveal the problems they could have had corrected earlier on. By then, it may even be too late to undo the damage of decades of use and abuse their feet have experienced.
3. People Who Started to Practice Sport
They love the competitive atmosphere. They enjoy the community and the vibe. And testing their body to the max is a challenge they’re ready to take on. But it is one of the reasons to see a podiatrist.
They may not know how ready their body is for the demands they’re about to place on it. Their feet will be bearing the brunt of vigorous activity. Knowing whether they’re ready to take the punch means a gait assessment that will determine how vulnerable they are to injury to the lower limbs – and even their hips and back.
4. Someone Who Has Just Been Diagnosed as a Diabetic
Their first thoughts will involve diet, regular self-testing, and ways to keep their blood sugar levels within acceptable parameters. But their feet are at risk. There are plenty of reasons to see a podiatrist, especially if you are suffering from diabetes.
Their health could make the difference between living with the condition as comfortably as possible, and having to undergo an amputation. Diabetes causes problems with circulation to the extremities and a painful condition known as peripheral neuropathy. The feet are prime targets for degeneration and prevention is always better than cure.
5. Experiencing Pain, Discomfort, or Lower Limb Injuries
“Late” is better than “Never.” If someone’s lower limbs are giving them pain, they’re prone to frequent lower-limb injuries, or they’ve recently suffered from a traumatic injury to the feet or lower limbs, they are the best reasons to see a podiatrist. “Absence of pain is not an indication that there’s no lurking problem that can limit their mobility later on,” says Mark. “But late is better than never, and visiting a podiatrist when they’re experiencing pain and discomfort can speed their recovery and prevent repeated reinjury.”
Any Foot-Related Abnormality that Cause Concern
From fallen arches to corns, calluses and bunions, ingrown toenails, athletes foot, or toenail fungus, are only among the reasons to see a podiatrist. Podiatrists are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and methods to correct foot-related health issues and foot rehabilitation techniques. “At the Footwork Clinic, you’ll find a dedicated team equipped with the knowledge, advanced medical equipment, and expertise to diagnose and treat all issues related to the health of the feet and lower limbs,” says Mark Lin. “Your feet work hard for you, and it’s worth investing in their health to keep you comfortable and mobile both now and in the longer-term.”
The Footwork Clinic, situated in Chatswood on Sydney’s North Shore and Sydney CBD, is there to help should you have an injury or condition that you think would benefit from heat or ice treatment. They offer advanced manual therapies and a holistic and corrective care approach, with a proven track record of success in resolving acute and chronic conditions, and they will gladly offer advice to get you on the road to recovery as soon as possible.
For further information, visit the The Footwork Clinic – Leading Sports, Podiatry, Foot And Lower Limb Corrective Services to book online, or call Mark Lin or his friendly team on +61 2 9131 6891.
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The information contained in this guide is provided in good faith and is not intended to be nor is it to be used as a substitute for any sort of professional, medical or podiatric advice. An accurate diagnosis can only be made following personal consultation with a podiatrist. Any users should always seek the advice of their podiatrist, or other qualified healthcare providers before commencing any treatment.
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