By Leticia Jensen


One of the biggest misfortunes that can befall any person is to lose mobility or to experience severe comfort when moving around. Yet many people experience chronic discomfort in the feet, lower legs, knees and ankles. It is astonishing to learn that most problems with the feet can be ascribed to neglect and a lack of proper care, as any Austin foot doctor will testify.

Podiatrists, the proper name for a medical practitioner that specializes in the treatment of the lower legs and the feet, are not only qualified as medical practitioners, but they also have to undergo intensive further training before they are allowed to practice as specialists. Podiatrists are trained to offer both medical and surgical treatment options, one of very few medical specialist fields that do so.

There are numerous things that can go wrong with the feet and adjacent limbs. Interestingly, though, the vast majority of patients that see a podiatrist are women and it is no wonder to learn that one of the main causes of feet problems are the prolonged wearing of high heeled shoes. Sportspeople also make out a large percentage of the patients treated by podiatrists.

Basic precautions can do much to prevent injury and diseases of the feet and ankles. The most important precaution is to buy shoes that fit properly and that provide support to the ankles. Shoes should never be too tight and the toes must never be squeezed together. Sportspeople, especially, should make sure that they purchase the shoes specially designed for the types of movement they perform.

It is also vital to maintain a strict regime of hygiene. The feet should be kept clean and dry at all times and special care should be taken with the areas between the toes. This is where fungus breeds easily. IT is important to look after the toe nails and to keep them short. Nobody should ever attempt dealing with common problems such as calluses and corns by using home remedies.

It is important to seek medical help at the first signs of pain or swelling. By ignoring discomfort the problem may be aggravated. Also, if the knees, lower legs ankles or feet are injured during sports or other activities, a doctor should be seen as soon as possible. Where possible, a podiatrist should be seen and not the usual family medical practitioner.

Patients that experience problems in this area should ask their general practitioner to refer them to a specialist. Many general practitioners that treat such problems in their own consulting rooms simply do not have the experience or knowledge necessary to identify and diagnose potentially serious problems. They end up treating the symptoms and may unwittingly cause more harm than good.

A Podiatrist can help their patients to look after their feet and ankles. Many specialists concentrate on helping their patients to prevent serious problems. With proper care, good hygiene and an awareness of the importance of looking after the feet nobody should experience pain or reduced mobility.




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