3 Reasons You Need to See a Foot and Ankle Specialist

Any time you walk, stand, or run, you're relying on your feet and ankles. Unfortunately, pain and injury can arise from various conditions. Many conditions of the foot and ankle can be treated without surgery, but prompt treatment is necessary to avoid further complications. If you suffer from any of the conditions listed in this article, you should see a foot and ankle specialist as soon as possible.

1. Bunions

Bunions are painful bumps that result from a deformation of the toes. They can form beneath the big toe or the little toe. Tight shoes that squeeze the toes are one major cause of bunions. Bunions develop over time, which means it's possible to have them treated early. Visit a foot and ankle specialist at the first sign of pain. If you have bunions, your podiatrist may suggest wearing orthopedic shoes that put less pressure on your toes. If your bunions do not improve with orthopedic shoes, then surgery is an option. A bunion removal surgery can be performed as an outpatient procedure.

2. Achilles Tendinitis

Tendinitis is an inflammation of the tendons. This condition can afflict the Achilles tendon, which attaches the muscles of your leg to your foot. Achilles tendinitis often manifests as ankle pain, and it usually affects runners. Your podiatrist will take X-rays of your ankle to make sure you don't have a fracture. They may also use an MRI machine to check for torn tendons. Your podiatrist may suggest you stop running until your symptoms go away. They may prescribe an ankle brace or custom shoe inserts which can lessen the tension placed on your tendon.

3. Plantar Fasciitis

Fascia is the connective tissue that holds your muscles together. Your plantar fascia runs along the bottom of your foot, and it can become swollen with overuse resulting in a condition called plantar fasciitis. If you feel pain in the bottom of your heel while walking or standing, plantar fasciitis is likely to blame. Your podiatrist can treat it by giving you a split to wear to bed at night. They may also suggest you make lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, to relieve pressure on your feet.

At a foot and ankle clinic, you can get the help you need. A podiatrist will examine your feet in motion and at rest. They will use modern imaging technology to get a better look at the bones, muscles, and tendons on the inside of your foot to identify injuries. A podiatrist will help you get back on your feet so you can walk and run without pain once more.

To learn more, visit sites like http://www.elmhurstpodiatry.com.