A podiatrist is an associate physician of podiatry (DPM) and an orthopedic surgeon who specialises in studying the feet, toes, and other joints and skeletal components of the lower limb. The medical education of podiatrists is similar to that of orthopedic surgeons and other physicians. In addition, a podiatrist can also perform additional specialised surgeries such as limb replacement and canaloplasty.
Before you can start treatment, you must first have a thorough examination by your podiatrist. He will ask questions regarding your medical history, symptoms, and general health. He will also examine your feet, ankles, and other joints and skeletal components. Then, if you feel comfortable with him, he will take a complete medical history, order some tests, and order a formal diagnosis. Once you are thoroughly diagnosed, your podiatrist will help you choose from the many options available for treating your pain.
Many people choose to have their feet and ankle evaluated during the first visit of their physician. During this appointment, the podiatrist will evaluate the severity of your condition based on your answers. If you have some deformities or severe medical conditions, you will be referred to an orthopedic surgeon to perform a surgical procedure. However, if you do not suffer from any health conditions or deformities, you must have your feet evaluated. You can go to a hospital to have your examination, or you can even have it performed at your home. It depends on your comfort level.
Many people choose to have a full-fledged foot care package at a foot care clinic. There, you will be administered all sorts of foot care treatments. These may include specialised shoes, customised socks, arch supports, etc. Some of these treatments may be painful, so you must discuss these beforehand with your podiatrist. This way, he can customise your treatment so that it will not be painful for you.
Other common treatments that your doctor may recommend include giving you an injection to reduce the inflammation caused by swelling. He can also prescribe you a cortisone cream. The most common form of medication prescribed by podiatrists is antibiotics, which help reduce the pain caused by your foot issues.
When it comes to buying shoes for your ankles, there are many things you need to consider. First off, you need to determine what kind of support your feet need. Most people, however, prefer to wear shoes that have at least a small amount of support. Your doctor should be able to let you know the specific amount of support you need. When you buy shoes for your ankles, you should bring your prescription along with you or at least have it nearby.
Your doctor may also recommend that you get specialised orthotics from an Adelaide Podiatrist. These orthotics are special shoes or even braces that are made especially for your feet. Some people choose to wear braces when they visit the podiatry clinic. However, it would help if you were advised that this is only an option for people who have a severe problem with their ankles and cannot otherwise go to a regular podiatry clinic. In such cases, the podiatrist may suggest that you wear special orthotics instead. You must understand the risks associated with wearing these, especially if you have tendonitis or bursitis already.