Your feet can take quite a beating in "The Big Peach." Sultry, hot summers and high humidity can be an open invitation for painful and irritating foot problems such as plantar warts, while our citywide love of sports can lead to lots of sprained ankles and foot pain. And, while you may be tempted to simply see your local family doctor, when it comes to foot and ankle problems, an Atlanta Podiatrist is the specialist most qualified to treat common foot ailments.
Podiatrists are more than just "foot doctors" though. While they do treat common foot and ankle problems, they can also work with issues affecting the toes (such as nail fungus) and the lower legs. While feet are their specialty, they are also trained in radiology, anesthesiology and orthopedics. They also receive training in emergency care so their expertise spans a wide variety of areas beyond just feet and ankles. Many common foot, angle and toenail problems can be helped with proper podiatric care including hammertoes, ingrown toenails, bunions, corns, toenail fungus and issues with the feet due to complications of diabetes.
Sometimes, you may not even realize you have foot problems until you have your feet examined by an Atlanta Podiatrist. Foot cramps, pain while walking or standing and circulation problems or numbness in the feet can all be symptoms of a more problematic illness or condition, and should be examined by a qualified Podiatrist right away. Podiatrists can also prescribe orthotics such as ankle braces and wraps to help with sprains or injuries sustained to the feet and ankles while playing sports or exercising.
Treatments that your Podiatrist will prescribe depend on many factors including your medical history, any other prescriptions you're taking, lifestyle factors and your symptoms. Make sure to let your Podiatrist know if you are diabetic or are a smoker as these can affect the treatment regimen. Depending on the Podiatrist you choose, you may find that your Podiatrist also treats skin conditions affecting the feet (such as plantar warts) and can help you find shoe inserts or orthotics that make walking or standing more comfortable. If you work at a job where you're on your feet constantly, a good podiatry exam and recommended inserts can make life a whole lot easier!
When looking for an Atlanta Podiatrist, ask if he or she is licensed to perform invasive surgery beyond simply removing corns or bunions. If you have a torn ligament, such as with an ankle injury, your Podiatrist may be able to complete the surgery directly or they may refer you to an orthotic specialist. In the end, choosing an Atlanta Podiatrist is as personal a decision as deciding on a family doctor or other specialist - but it's crucial that your feet are placed "in good hands", so don't hesitate to ask your foot doctor any lingering questions that you may be too embarrassed or afraid to ask a general practitioner. By choosing a qualified Podiatrist, you'll be well on your way to enjoying greater comfort with every step you take.
What's My Next Step?
Click on the convenient links below to receive more information about one professional and qualified group of Atlanta Podiatrists. They have many convenient offices located throughout the Metro Atlanta, Georgia area.
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