Only 25% of Americans who have experienced foot ailments have seen any sort of a physician about their problem, and less than half that amount has visited a podiatrist. Another startling statistic is almost four in ten Americans who have experienced foot ailments rely on over the counter and self-treatments for relief while thirty percent of this group choose to do nothing to relieve the pain.
Foot pain can have a profound impact on the quality of life. Half of all adults say that foot pain has restricted their activities like walking, exercising, working, or playing with grandchildren. For those with chronic foot pain, that number jumps to 83%. If someone is suffering from foot pain, they should contact a doctor who can fix ankle problems in Kenosha WI.
What Is A Podiatrist?
Podiatrists are a medical doctor who helps with problems that affect a person’s feet or lower legs. They can treat injuries as well as complications from ongoing health issues like diabetes. They may also be called a podiatric physician or doctor of podiatric medicine.
Doctors, Podiatrist, And Services
Podiatrists are doctors, but they don’t go to a traditional medical school. They have their own schools and professional associations. They also have “DPM” (doctor of podiatric medicine) after their names instead of “MD” (medical doctor).
Podiatrist Treatment
Podiatrists can perform surgery, reset broken bones, prescribe drugs, and order lab tests or X-rays. They work closely with other doctors when a problem affects a person’s feet or lower legs. In the U.S., podiatrists are licensed and regulated by state governments.
A podiatrist can treat a variety of conditions, such as hammertoes, adult flatfoot, ingrown toenails, heel pain, bunion deformities, metatarsal stress fractures, neuroma, nail fungus, Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and arch pain. Treating these conditions can be the start of a new and improved life.
Foot pain is never normal, and it’s critical that anyone experiencing chronic pain seek care from a podiatrist. If you or someone you know is having a decreased quality of life because of pains such as this, contact a physician who treats Ankle Problems in Kenosha WI today. Schedule an appointment today for more information.