The Benefits Offered By An Austin Foot Doctor

By Leticia Jensen


It is the nature of most humans to take things for granted until something is no longer available. Few people appreciate the fact that they can walk, jump or run, at least until they lose the ability. Yet the means to move about freely is probably one of the most important functions humans have. Unfortunately, many people also do not understand just how important it is to look after their ankles, feet and legs. Any Austin foot doctor will agree that far too many people neglect their feet.

Podiatrists, the proper name for a medical practitioner that specializes in the treatment of the lower legs and the feet, are not only qualified as medical practitioners, but they also have to undergo intensive further training before they are allowed to practice as specialists. Podiatrists are trained to offer both medical and surgical treatment options, one of very few medical specialist fields that do so.

There are numerous causes for injuries to the feet or parts of the lower legs. It is common in active sportspeople, but most specialists will agree that the most common cause of problems can be related to the wearing of the wrong shoes. High heels are commonly seen as the biggest cause and that is certainly the reason why the majority of patients seen by podiatrists are female.

The good news is that there is much that can be done to prevent injury to and disease of the feet and ankles. By far the most important preventive measure is to be sure to wear the correct shoes. Shoes should always fit well and the toes should never be pinched. Experts warn that shoes must never be bought when the feet are swollen or tired.

Apart from not wearing the correct shoes, poor hygiene is the biggest cause of disease of the feet. The importance of cleaning the feet regularly and to keep them dry at all times simply cannot be overemphasized. Care should also be taken to keep socks dry. Moisture is the main cause of a host of fungal diseases. Trying to deal with problems such as corns at home is also a sure road to more serious problems.

No discomfort, pain or any visible symptoms such as swelling, rashes or growths should ever be ignored. The sooner medical help is sought, the quicker the problem can be dealt with and the less likely it is that more serious problems can ensue. Most podiatrists will testify to the fact that their most serious cases came about because the patient waited too long before seeking medical help.

Many general practitioners prefer to treat problems of the feet, ankles, lower legs and the knees themselves, but patients should insist upon a referral to a specialist. Many problems with the feet and knees are only symptoms of more serious problems, and the sooner the underlying problem is diagnosed and treated, the better. If this is not done, the mobility of the patient can become a problem and chronic pain may even result.

There are good reasons why podiatrists are specially trained. These specialists play an important role in keeping people mobile and in preventing pain and discomfort. Many podiatrists focus on prevention and they can help sportspeople to remain competitive, older people to remain mobile and pain free and they can provide the best possible care when problems do occur.




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