Podiatrists are health professionals who specialize in treating problems that affect the lower legs or the feet. They are also known as doctors of podiatric medicine or podiatric physicians. They can help injured patients and even those who are suffering from complications arising from health issues such as arthritis and diabetes. Below is a rundown of some of the conditions treated by podiatrists at the Center for Podiatric Care and Sports Medicine.

Sprains and Fractures

Fractures and sprains on the feet and ankles are probably the most common injuries that podiatrists treat on a regular basis. Podiatrists also practice sports medicine by treating foot injuries sustained by athletes. They also advise athletes on how they can avoid such injuries.

Arthritis

Arthritis is associated with wear or tear of the joints. It is characterized by pain and swelling on the joints. Although it may be difficult to reverse arthritis completely, a podiatrist can recommend the best drugs, physical therapy, or even special inserts or shoe to help patients manage the symptoms. They can also perform surgical procedures on arthritis patients if the other methods fail.

Heel Pain

Heel pain usually occurs due to the accumulation of calcium at the heel bone’s bottom. This may be due to ill-fitting shoes, running, or even being overweight. Podiatrists usually treat heel pain with counter pain meds or orthotics (shoe inserts). In some cases, the issue may have to be treated with surgery.

Morton’s Neuroma

This issue is associated with nerve problems causing pain and a burning sensation between the fourth and the third bones of the foot. It usually affects athletes who do a lot of running. Wearing tight shoes can worsen the symptoms. If you are suffering from Morton’s Neuroma, a podiatric can help you with pain and inflammation shots. They can also treat it with surgery if need be.

Hammertoes and Bunions

These issues affect bones in the feet. For instance, Bunions occur when the joint below the bigger toe enlarges or gets knocked out of place, making the toe bend towards the other toes. A hammertoe is a toe that bends in the wrong way. Whichever your problem may be, a podiatrist can help you to fix it.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition that occurs as a result of the inability of the body to produce insulin or to use it in the right way. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body to digest sugar. Diabetes is known to cause severe damage to the nerves in the legs or feet. It can also cause complications that can necessitate foot amputation. A podiatrist can help you to avoid such an eventuality. Therefore, if you have diabetes and you happen to get a callus or a sore on your legs or feet, it is imperative for you to see a podiatrist before the situation gets out of hand.

The Takeaway

Overall, it is apparent that the services of podiatrists cannot be overemphasized. They help when it comes to treating injuries and complications that affect the legs or the feet. If you are looking for a reliable podiatrist in New York, the Center for Podiatric Care and Sports Medicine is the answer. They have highly trained professionals who are always ready to help patients with foot or leg problems. Feel free to contact them today for more information about the practice and its services.