Our feet carry us through life, literally. When you consider that we walk an average of 75,000 to 100,000 miles in a lifetime, it’s no surprise that foot problems are incredibly common. But just because they’re common doesn’t mean they should be ignored. Even a small amount of pain or discomfort in your feet or ankles can make it challenging to complete all the tasks we have on our plates. It can even interfere with the activities we love to do in our free time. If this sounds familiar, it might be time to schedule a visit with a podiatrist.
What, exactly, is a podiatrist? A podiatrist, also known as a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM), is a medical specialist who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. They are experts in everything from sports injuries and diabetic foot care to bunions and heel pain.
If you’re wondering whether your foot issue warrants a specialist’s attention, take a look at the top signs you should see a podiatrist.
1. Persistent Foot Pain
A little soreness after a long day on your feet is normal, but if the discomfort doesn’t go away after a few days of rest, it’s time to pay attention.
Persistent foot pain could indicate an underlying issue such as plantar fasciitis, arthritis, tendonitis, or a stress fracture. A podiatrist can evaluate your symptoms, identify the root cause of the pain, and develop a treatment plan that may include physical therapy, custom orthotics, or other solutions to relieve your pain and prevent further harm.
2. Heel Pain That Won’t Go Away
Do you feel a sharp pain in your heel when you get out of bed in the morning or after sitting for a long period of time? This discomfort is often caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia — a thick band of tissue that supports your arch — or by a heel spur. Since these conditions rarely improve without treatment, it’s best to have a podiatrist for foot pain assess your feet early on to avoid chronic complications.
3. Changes in the Shape or Appearance of Your Feet
If you notice swelling, redness, lumps, or other visible changes in your feet, it could signal a deeper issue.
For example, bunions, hammertoes, and flat feet are structural problems that can worsen over time if left untreated. Likewise, sudden swelling or discoloration might point to an infection, injury, or circulation problem.
A podiatrist can determine what’s causing the change and recommend the best course of action, whether that means orthotic support, physical therapy, or minor corrective procedures.
4. Numbness, Tingling, or Burning Sensations
Unusual sensations in your feet, such as tingling, burning, or numbness, may be a sign of nerve damage or poor circulation. These symptoms are particularly concerning for people with diabetes, as they can indicate neuropathy, which is a condition that reduces feeling in the feet and increases the risk of infections and ulcers. A podiatrist can help manage diabetic foot health and prevent more serious complications with regular screenings and preventive care.
5. Thickened, Discolored, or Painful Toenails
Toenail issues might seem minor, but they can cause significant discomfort and sometimes point to infection. Ingrown toenails, fungal infections, and trauma-related nail changes are common conditions treated by podiatrists.
Attempting to manage these problems at home can make them worse, especially if you use improper tools or techniques. A podiatrist can safely remove ingrown nails, treat infections, and help you maintain healthy nail hygiene to prevent recurrence.
6. Painful Corns, Calluses, or Cracked Skin
Corns, calluses, and dry, cracked heels can make walking uncomfortable and even lead to infections if left untreated. These issues often result from wearing ill-fitting shoes, standing for long periods, or underlying foot deformities. A podiatrist for foot pain can gently remove thickened skin, recommend better footwear, and provide cushioning or orthotic inserts to reduce friction and pressure on your feet.
7. Difficulty Walking or Changes in Gait
If you’ve noticed you’re walking differently (perhaps limping, favoring one foot, or struggling to maintain balance), it’s important to see your podiatrist. A medical professional can evaluate your gait, posture, and biomechanics to identify the issue and help restore comfort and stability through personalized treatment.
8. Foot Problems That Keep Coming Back
Other signs you need to search for a “podiatrist near me” include recurring blisters, fungal infections, or foot odor. These problems point to something more serious going on, like excessive sweating, structural imbalance, or improper footwear. A podiatrist can identify what’s causing these repeat problems and give you strategies to keep them from returning.
Get Back on Your Feet With Spectrum Health Services
If persistent foot pain is keeping you on the sidelines of your own life, our podiatrists in Philadelphia, PA, are here to help. At Spectrum Health Services, we’ll carefully evaluate your symptoms and perform any necessary diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your pain. From there, we’ll recommend treatment plans to relieve your discomfort and help you move comfortably again.
Get in touch with our team today about our specialty health services and schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you take one giant step toward healthier feet.