(866) 552-4866 For years, Max* believed he could go to his primary doctor for everything. After all, he had the same doctor since he was 18, and there wasn't anything he couldn't treat or at least give guidance on. This was true for everything from the common cold to insect bites, screenings, and even an annual physical. But during what was supposed to be yet another routine visit to discuss a problem—this time with his foot—Max was told he needed to see a foot doctor instead. His foot pain had lingered for months, and now he was experiencing the occasional numbness and tingling. This was a job for a specialist—a qualified podiatrist.
It is not uncommon for people to assume they can make a quick trip to their primary doctor for pretty much anything. However, the reality is that not every health issue we experience is a short-term issue. This is especially true when it comes to your foot health. Perhaps you are dealing with heel pain every morning, painful bunions, or even wounds that will not heal. As a result, your primary doctor may not have the tools or specialized knowledge to get you lasting relief.
That is when it's time to see a podiatrist.
Are You Experiencing Any of These Symptoms?
- Inability to bear weight on the affected foot
- Ongoing pain that comes and goes
- Swelling and redness in the foot or ankle
- Visible skin changes that do not improve
- Loss of sensation (numbness and/or tingling)
- Difficulty wearing shoes because of the pain
- Stiffness or limited mobility
- Persistent foot pain when walking, standing, or even at rest
Do you have persistent foot pain that your primary doctor cannot treat? Request an appointment with a StrideCare podiatrist today. Our collaborative approach ensures you receive the support you need from a qualified foot doctor close to home.
Your Primary Doctor vs. a Foot Doctor
When something feels off with your feet, your first instinct might be to book an appointment with your primary care doctor. Many of us have worked closely with one for most of our lives. There is a built-in trust factor there, and yes, they are great for diagnosing and treating many health concerns, from colds and the flu to high blood pressure, diabetes, basic injuries, general wellness concerns, and even preventative care. As a result, we come to see them as our go-to health source.
What many people do not realize is that there are some limitations to what primary doctors can do. Their training is intentionally broad so that they can see patients with a wide range of health issues. So, while they may give general advice or temporary relief for foot issues, they may not have the tools, techniques, or in-depth knowledge to uncover the root cause of your pain or other symptoms.
A podiatrist, or foot doctor, is dedicated to diagnosing, treating, and preventing disorders, injuries, and acute and chronic conditions of the foot, ankle, and lower extremities. Rather than general health knowledge, their medical training includes four years at a podiatric medical school, followed by residency training specifically focused on providing care for lower extremity issues.
So, when should you see a foot doctor? Great question.
If your foot issues involve minor cuts, skin irritations, mild sprains and strains, or even fungal infections, you can seek help from your primary doctor. If your issue is listed below or is not on this list but continues to linger and worsen, connect with a foot doctor as quickly as possible.
10 Signs You Need a Foot Doctor
1. Persistent foot or ankle pain
Pain that lasts more than a week or two and limits your ability to move, stand, or sleep comfortably at night, is not normal. You could have suffered an injury, or there is an underlying reason that will only get worse if left untreated. A foot doctor can pinpoint the cause (arthritis, stress fracture, tendonitis, structural issues, etc.) and get you back on the road to recovery.
2. You think you broke your foot or ankle
Your first instinct might be to visit your primary doctor, but podiatrists are often the better option. Treating a foot or ankle fracture requires a careful assessment of the fracture's location and severity to determine the best course of action for healing.
3. Numbness, burning, or tingling
Constant numbness, burning, or an annoying pins and needles sensation for no known reason can signal nerve problems, circulation issues, or diabetes-related complications. These symptoms must not be ignored. A foot doctor can get to the bottom of your condition.
4. Continuous heel pain
We all experience heel pain at some point in our lives, especially if we are constantly on our feet because of work or various activities. Sharp or throbbing heel pain that does not go away is a red flag and could be caused by everything from plantar fasciitis to stress fractures and other structural problems in the foot or ankle. A foot doctor is more likely to provide targeted relief.
Seeing a foot doctor will do wonders for a variety of foot health issues. If you would like to discuss your treatment options, please schedule an appointment with StrideCare's expert podiatric physicians.
5. Chronic athlete's foot or fungal infections
It is likely that your primary doctor can provide antibiotics for minor fungal infections of the foot, including athlete's foot. If your condition is chronic, or your toenails are turning abnormally yellow, thick, and brittle, it is time to seek stronger, more effective treatments from a foot doctor.
6. Flat feet
Flat feet are when the arches are flattened, allowing the entire soles of the foot to touch the floor when standing. Patients can be born this way, or it can develop later in life due to injury, chronic diseases, or being overweight. A foot doctor can provide expert guidance on medication and stretching as well as recommend supportive footwear, orthotics, and more.
7. You have a sports injury that will not heal
A foot doctor needs to be your first choice to evaluate and treat sprains, fractures, and tendon injuries in the foot or ankle to avoid long-term damage. This is especially true if rest, pain medication, ice, and conservative physical therapy have not helped.
8. You have painful growths or bumps on your feet
Corns, calluses, warts, and even bony bumps called bunions will only get worse if left untreated. Podiatrists specialize in treating and removing stubborn areas of hardened skin or rough-textured growths on the feet and ankles.
9. You have recurring ingrown toenails
An occasional ingrown toenail is common, but recurring cases can become infected and extremely painful. These issues are usually caused by improper toenail trimming and shoes that do not fit correctly, but they can also be caused by poor blood circulation in the feet and diabetes. A podiatrist will know the difference and provide the right solutions.
10. You are a diabetic with foot issues
Diabetes can make you more vulnerable to conditions like foot ulcers, blisters, nerve damage, and poor circulation, which, if left untreated, may lead to serious issues. Foot doctors are known for working one-on-one with diabetic patients, as even small foot issues can turn into serious complications.
If your foot issues involve minor cuts, skin irritations, mild sprains and strains, or even fungal infections, you can seek help from your primary doctor. If your issue continues to linger and worsen, connect with a foot doctor as quickly as possible.
StrideCare Wants To Be Your Foot Doctor of Choice
We all experience pain at times, especially in our feet. After all, we rely on our feet for everything. That said, far too many people assume their current foot pain is simply being sore without investigating the root cause or doing something about it from a medical perspective. Many times, they will turn to their primary doctor for help when they need to visit a qualified foot doctor aka podiatrist.
With over 50 StrideCare clinic locations, finding an experienced, qualified podiatrist near you is easier than ever. A consultation with one of our podiatrists can determine the type, severity, and location of your foot pain issues.
Our expert doctors and caring staff utilize the latest technologies and treatments to help our patients reclaim their lives. Please contact us at 866-552-4866 or complete the appointment form to schedule a consultation. At StrideCare, we are here to help, all while providing compassionate patient care.
Before starting any new treatment or questions regarding a medical condition, always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
StrideCare serves North Texas and South Texas communities, including Arlington, Austin, Carrollton, Celina, Clear Lake, Craig Ranch, Dallas, Euless, Flower Mound, Forney, Fort Worth, Frisco, Garland, Houston, Irving, Katy, Kaufman, Mansfield, McKinney, Mesquite, Midland, North Dallas, Odessa, Paris, Pecos, Plano, Prosper, Rockwall, Round Rock, Rowlett, Royce City, San Antonio, Sherman, South Dallas, Southlake, Stone Oak, Sugar Land, Sulphur Springs, The Woodlands, Waxahachie, Webster, Addison, Allen, Anna, and more.
*Patient names and/or photos may be changed to protect patient confidentiality.