Taking Steps to Foot Health and Finding the Best Foot Doctor

Taking Steps to Foot Health and Finding the Best Foot Doctor

Our feet are so important for our general well-being and serve as the foundation of health for our stature. Healthy feet are of utmost importance as they are the base of all of our movement and our posture. Our feet get us from point A to point B, so if they are injured or damaged in any way, it will likely affect every part of our well-being. So, what are the most important aspects of foot care? What can we do to secure a foot doctor that will meet all of our individual foot needs? Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists in Sugar Land, TX, have tips on how to maintain excellent foot health and how to find a foot doctor who meets your needs.

Understanding Foot Health Needs

When understanding and caring for bodily health and well-being, many individuals forget about the feet. But, the feet should be the first thing we think about, as they are responsible for walking, standing, jumping, and all other issues pertaining to stature and movement. It only makes sense that the feet should be the first order of business. Foot issues are prevalent, with nearly 25% of Americans suffering from these issues. When you have foot pain, it is essential to educate yourself about what type of doctor is needed. For some foot pain, a podiatrist is the answer, while other foot pain may require physical therapy or even surgery. Many individuals aren’t aware that there are many types of doctors who work on their feet. Each doctor has a focus that is specific to the kind of foot issue.

Types of Foot Doctors

One of the issues you might come across when trying to work with a foot doctor is that you may need to know what type of doctor to contact. Here are some of the many types of foot doctors and a description of what specialties they have.

• Podiatrist
  A podiatrist is a general foot doctor who treats many types of foot issues and is likely to be the first stop an individual makes on the way to finding a solution to their problem. A podiatrist treats various foot and ankle issues, from ingrown toenails and plantar fasciitis to fractures and diabetic foot issues. A podiatrist can meet the needs of most people struggling with foot issues. Podiatrists may also specialize in podiatric surgery, sports medicine, or pediatric podiatry.
• Orthopedic Surgeon
  An orthopedic surgeon is a specialist in bones and joints. They also specialize in the muscles and ligaments of the foot. They perform surgeries for severely injured feet and ankles and can help with surgeries such as joint reconstruction, fractures, ankle arthritis, and ruptured Achilles tendons.
• Sports Medicine Specialist
  A sports medicine podiatrist treats conditions of the ankle and foot related to sports and other physical activities. They specialize in treating injuries caused by athletic events, giving advice on sports-specific footwear, and performing biomechanical diagnoses. If you are an athlete, they are the doctor to visit.
• Chiropodist
  Foot care specialists who are similar to podiatrists but have a very different level of training are called chiropodists. They undergo clinical training and study chiropody. They treat conditions like corns, bunions, toenail issues, and other minor issues. They work primarily with elderly patients.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Foot Doctor

There are many factors to consider when you are choosing a foot doctor.

• Qualifications and Credentials
  When choosing a foot doctor, consider their qualifications and credentials. For example, if you have a ruptured tendon, you may need to see an orthopedic surgeon. If you have a bunion or a pulled muscle, you might start with a podiatrist and then see if you need anything more specific.
• Experience and Specialization
  Make sure to verify the experience and specialization of the doctor you visit. When making an appointment, read online reviews and ask your referring physician which type of foot doctor will best meet your needs.
• Reputation and Reviews
  Most foot doctors have reviews on their websites. You can verify that other patients have had success with the doctor of your choosing. Your primary care physician will likely have foot doctors they would recommend. When in doubt, ask a referring physician.
• Location and Accessibility
  For your convenience, you will want to choose a physician that is convenient to your location.
• Insurance and Costs
  A great way to find a good physician is to go through your insurance company. Your insurance company can recommend a physician who is affordable and in your plan.

Questions to Ask a Potential Foot Doctor

• Initial Consultation Questions
  Finding a foot doctor is just half the battle. Now, you’re ready for your first visit to your new physician. Make sure to bring a pad of paper and a pencil or pen to take notes. First, write down what you would like to ask. Then, when you are in the initial consultation, you can ask your doctor for recommendations, a diagnosis, and a treatment plan.
• Treatment Plan and Follow-Up
  Your doctor will provide you with a treatment plan, and they will schedule a follow-up appointment. You may be referred to another physician or specialist.

Conclusion

Whether you are looking for someone to treat a sprain, athletic injury, plantar fasciitis, or any of the other conditions of the foot, you will be able to find a foot doctor that meets your needs. Based on the criteria above, there are specialists for every type of foot issue. When in doubt, look to the experts at Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists.

Contact us today!

In the Sugar Land, Texas, area, finding the right foot and ankle doctor is as simple as contacting the team at Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists. Dr. Lee and his expert team will help you maintain your feet so that they remain healthy and strong. With in-house X-ray, ultrasound, shockwave, and laser technology, we are your one-stop shop for proper foot care. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us or visit our website.