When most people begin experiencing foot pain, their first thought is to ignore it and hope that it goes away. If this does not seem to help the issue, the second thing they usually try to do is to self-treat the problem. This can usually consist of some type of over the counter medication, ice, rest and maybe special bandages of some kind. If the problem they are having still persists, the only option left is to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Most people think about podiatry only in terms of problems with the feet. However, these professionals are actually specialists in any kind of problem related to the foot and the ankle, as well as the lower leg. Many of the issues that they have to deal with are disorders, deformities or different types of diseases. However, there is also an element of orthopedics involved in the profession. This encompasses problems with the bones and joints of the foot, ankle or lower leg. Most of the work that they do is related to the most common complaints that people have about their feet. There are basic issues like ingrown toenails, hammer toe, bunions, warts, corns, calluses and dry skin. However, they also have to deal with more complicated issues on occasion. This can include dealing with different kinds of infections and/or bacterial conditions. Sprains and fractures are also seen by a specialist from time to time.

On occasion, they have to consult with doctors in other fields because of potential complications. Sometimes the problems that seem to be specific to the feet actually turn out to be the beginning signs of such serious diseases like diabetes, arthritis or even heart disease. It is important to treat the problems being experienced by the patient, but it is also important to recognize when the patient needs to be referred to another specialist for further testing.

These professionals sometimes get a bad name because people assume that they are not real doctors just because they deal with foot problems. However, the training that they have to go through is quite extensive. After the normal four year degree, they have to obtain a doctorate degree. Then they are required to participate in a post-grad program as a resident.

If you are having any kind of foot problems, it is important to see a healthcare provider as early as possible so the condition does not get worse or cause other problems. Infections, problems with toenails and bunions will all continue to get worse if they are not treated. Other types of problems will cause you to have other issues. One of the things that happens on a frequent basis is that instead of seeing a doctor, you just walk differently so that it does not make your foot hurt. However, more often than not, this is going to cause something else to be out of balance. At that point your original problem may be gone, but you will have a new pain in your ankle or knee.

Author Bio: Stewart Wrighter has been researching Manhattan foot pain specialists for an article he is writing about the subject. He scheduled an appointment with a Manhattan podiatrist to seek treatment.

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