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Who is a podiatrist? What issues do they treat?

A podiatrist is skilled in identifying and treating problems with the feet and ankles. Podiatrists also frequently engage in preventative care, such as educating patients on correctly caring for their feet and ankles to prevent future issues.

Bunions, heel pain, ingrown toenails, and athlete's foot are among the common issues that podiatrists address. Depending on the ailment, podiatrists may utilize various treatment options, including surgery, braces, or orthotic devices. Podiatrists are crucial in helping persons with arthritis care for their joints since untreated foot arthritis can result in serious problems.

What kind of education and training do podiatrists receive?

Aspiring podiatrists must earn a bachelor's degree in science, studying courses like biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics. They must then enroll in one of the nine podiatry schools accredited by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). 

In podiatry school, students train for four years, studying how the muscles, nerves, and bones work together to aid movement. After completing podiatry school, students complete a three-year podiatric residency to practice diagnosing and treating illnesses. During residency, students train under podiatry experts, including specialists in infectious diseases, pediatricians, anesthesiologists, and surgeons. Finally, some podiatrists earn advanced certifications in feet and ankle surgery.

What are the specialized areas in podiatry?

Podiatrists can choose to focus on specific areas within podiatry to address distinct patient needs:

• Sports medicine: Podiatrists specializing in sports medicine treat individuals injured during athletic or other physical activities, helping them recover and prevent future injuries.
• Pediatrics: Pediatric podiatrists treat children experiencing foot or leg pain. If a child’s primary care doctor notices specific foot issues, they may recommend seeing a pediatric podiatrist. Common conditions treated include ingrown toenails, plantar warts, athlete's foot, crossover toes, bunions, flat feet, intoed gait, and growth plate injuries in the ankle and foot.
• Radiology: Podiatric radiologists specialize in imaging diagnostics for the lower limbs. They use tools like X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, MRI exams, and nuclear medicine to diagnose various foot and ankle conditions.
• Diabetic foot care: For patients with diabetes, podiatrists focus on preventing and treating foot complications, aiming to reduce the risk of severe damage that may lead to amputation. They help maintain foot health and monitor for potential issues linked to diabetes.

What’s the difference between an orthopedist and a podiatrist?

Feet and ankles are complex parts of the body and are prone to issues due to frequent use. When foot and ankle problems arise, deciding whether to consult a podiatrist or an orthopedist can be challenging.

While both can treat foot-related issues, a podiatrist focuses solely on the foot and ankle, while orthopedists can treat musculoskeletal problems across the entire body.

Orthopedists, or orthopedic surgeons, are medical doctors with comprehensive training in musculoskeletal issues across the body. They may complete further fellowship training after medical school and a five-year residency. Orthopedists can treat various foot and ankle conditions such as bunions, hammer toes, and Achilles tendinitis and may address broader conditions like fractures, arthritis, and chronic muscle pain. An orthopedist’s body-wide expertise allows them to address foot and ankle issues that may stem from other areas, such as the hip. 

Roles and responsibilities of a podiatrist

The role of a podiatrist involves a diverse set of advanced techniques focused on diagnosing and managing conditions affecting patients' lower extremities. These specialized medical professionals skillfully identify the relationship between muscles and tendons in the human foot and the body. Therefore, they are experts at identifying early signs of cardiovascular diseases and diabetic disorders.

Here are the key responsibilities of a podiatrist: 

1. Personalized patient consultation: Engage with patients individually to offer comprehensive guidance on preventive foot care, expert management, and treatment of lower extremity disorders.
2. Accurate diagnosis: Skillfully identify various lower extremity conditions. It includes ulcers, tumors, skin or nail disorders, fractures, and acquired and congenital deformities like imbalances and weak feet.
3. Deformity correction: Create customized plaster casts, strappings, and orthotics to rectify deformities and promote effective alignment.
4. Advanced treatment techniques: Podiatrists use innovative methodologies to address calluses, corns, heel spurs, bunions, arch issues, ingrown toenails, bone disorders, cysts, abscesses, and shortened tendons.
5. Specialized casting: Skillfully design adaptable casts for immobilizing ankle and foot fractures, sprains, and injuries and ensure optimal conditions for recovery.
6. Enhancing mobility and comfort: Play a crucial role in correcting balance and walking patterns to improve overall movement functionality and comfort.
7. Holistic approach: Recognize the interconnected nature of foot symptoms with broader health conditions. Appropriately refer patients to specialist physicians when indications suggest underlying disorders like arthritis, kidney diseases, diabetes, and heart ailments.

How does one get foot arthritis?

Foot arthritis affects the soft tissues and joints around the foot, causing swelling and inflammation. The cartilage in the joints might deteriorate from continuous stress and usage since arthritis is a degenerative illness. The bones that unite at the joint lose their protective coating as they become thinner and cause the bones to scrape against one another. As a result, discomfort and inflammation develop. Arthritis can also start as a result of a foot injury. For instance, a fracture or severe accident might damage the foot and eventually lead to arthritis.

Additionally, abnormal foot mechanics, such as high arches or flat feet, can raise one's risk of arthritis. Flat feet decrease stability and put too much stress on the feet. On the other hand, high-arched feet are less flexible and more unyielding.

Hereditary factors also influence the onset of foot arthritis. One has an increased risk of acquiring foot arthritis if their parents or close family members have the same problem.

What are the symptoms of foot arthritis?

Each person's experience with arthritis is different. It could begin as a slight foot soreness before developing into excruciating pain. Watching for signs such as plantar fasciitis, clicking sounds when walking, discomfort, stiffness, swelling in the foot's joints, and trouble moving or bearing weight on the feet is beneficial. Some types of arthritis may also affect the skin, kidneys, lungs, heart, and other organs.

What are the many types of arthritic pain, and how can they be relieved?

One joint suffering from arthritis might affect the entire body. For example, walking improperly due to a hurting knee may affect the feet, back, and hips. The following are some problems and the solutions that one may use:

• Neck pain 

Neck pain makes it challenging to look up or shift your head sideways. If you move your shoulders or entire body to prevent twisting your neck, the surrounding muscles may ache as much as the joints. To help muscles relax, apply moist heat to them. Use a cervical pillow or no cushion while sleeping. Slow range-of-motion exercises can help prevent loss of motion and lessen pain. For example, it will help if you slowly move your head sideways and up and down.

• Jaw pain 

Jaw pain occurs due to a painful joint on the side of the face or right in front of the ear. Biting into an apple or a thick sandwich can be challenging. To relieve pain, use moist heat, cold, or a combination. Avoid postures that can exacerbate pain, such as clenching your teeth, placing a phone between your neck and ear, or resting your chin on your palm.

• Elbow pain 

Elbow pain occurs when moving your elbow; sometimes, keeping it straight is also painful. However, you should always perform elbow movement, even if it hurts, since otherwise, you risk having a permanent mobility issue. To help the muscles and joints loosen up, take a warm bath/shower and apply a heating pad. In case of swellings, use ice packs. You can also try activities that force your elbow straight, including pushing away light things to prevent the muscles from shortening.

• Wrist pain

Wrist pain can make regular tasks like raising your hands or making a fist challenging. Wearing a functional splint during the day and a resting splint at night offers additional support and could help to avoid deformation. Specific workouts could aid with wrist pain relief.

• Finger pain 

Often, finger pain might make handling a pen or pencil challenging or picking up little objects. Use soft grip covers on pens or pencils for writing to aid this discomfort. You can give crayons or large pencils to kids who have finger pain. Play with putty, play-doh, or a stress ball to strengthen your fingers.

• Hip pain 

Pain in the hip can make walking, climbing stairs, sitting for extended periods, or even sleeping challenging. One should perform regular stretching and range-of-motion exercises for increased flexibility, easing pain, and reducing the risk of further injury. Warm baths can help relieve pain and stiffness, making movement easier.

• Knee pain 

Pain in the knees may cause a limp in the walk, making it challenging to squat or climb stairs. The pain and stiffness can also make it difficult to straighten the knee. In this case, you should rest with your knee straight and your heel raised if you have knee pain. While walking, especially on uneven surfaces or when climbing stairs, use a cane in the right hand if your left knee is injured.

• Ankle pain 

Ankle pain is frequently associated with the joint or tendon that links the lower leg to the heel. Pain in these areas is a sign of foot arthritis or other underlying diseases. You can use an in-shoe orthotic, which supports the foot structure and relieves discomfort while standing and walking. While bathing, you may also work up your muscles by completing ankle circles or making letter shapes with your feet. Finally, you may engage in exercises that stretch the calf muscles.

• Foot pain 

Pain in the foot usually happens in the ball of your foot. It can make walking or elevating your toes challenging. To relieve foot pressure, place a small cushion directly beneath the ball of the foot.

What can you expect during your first consultation with a podiatrist?

During the first visit to a podiatrist near you, the doctor or nurse will ask about your and your family's foot problems and medical history. Additionally, they will want to know your current complaint, symptoms, medication, and if you have had any surgery for the pain. The podiatrist will also look at any notes made by a referring physician and any scans or reports related to the issue. Ensure you carry all this information when you visit the podiatrist and make notes to help you remember important details you want to discuss. 

Then, the podiatrist will conduct a physical examination. They will ask you to stand and walk about, check your joints to assess your range of motion, and check if you wear the correct shoe size and if your feet are comfortable walking in them. If you are uncomfortable, they may ask you to change your footwear, which could cause a problem. 

The podiatrist will also examine your feet for abnormalities such as ingrown toenails, bunions, and other deformities. They will ask if you have heel or lower back pain and issues with blood circulation in your feet; the latter is a common issue if you have diabetes. 

The podiatrist may treat some issues immediately. For example, they may use nail splitters or a nail anvil to treat ingrown toenails. They may relieve pain by administering an injection. If you have calluses or corns, they will use a scalpel to remove them. The podiatrist may also use liquid nitrogen to freeze off plantar warts. For other issues, they may prescribe medication or suggest padding, orthotics, or physical therapy if needed. 

Tips on maintaining foot hygiene 

The roles and responsibilities of a podiatrist extend to guiding patients in maintaining optimal foot hygiene. It is crucial in preventing various foot-related issues. Addressing these problems is essential to prevent them from escalating into more serious complications. To ensure the health and well-being of your feet, consider the following indispensable tips for foot hygiene:

1. Regular foot washing: It is vital to cleanse your feet daily with soap and water, paying special attention to thorough drying, especially between the toes. This practice doesn't allow the accumulation of moisture, which can foster fungal growth.

2. Trim toenails carefully: When trimming toenails, maintain a straight-across cut, avoiding excessive shortening that may lead to ingrown toenails.

3. Select clean socks: Opt for dry socks daily to keep your feet dry and ward off fungal growth. Choose breathable materials like cotton or wool, avoiding synthetic fabrics that can trap moisture.

4. Choose the right footwear: Ensure your shoes fit properly and offer adequate support. Avoid overly tight or loose shoes; opt for breathable footwear that facilitates proper air circulation.

5. Use foot powder: Foot powder absorbs moisture and reduces friction on your feet, promoting a dry and comfortable environment.

6. Regular foot checks: Conduct daily inspections of your feet to identify any issues such as cuts, blisters, or sores. Consult a podiatrist if you observe changes like redness, swelling, or pain.

7. Good foot care practices: In communal places like swimming pools or locker rooms, refrain from walking barefoot and avoid exchanging shoes or socks with others. Exercise caution when addressing foot issues, avoiding using sharp tools to prevent potential injuries or infections. These practices contribute to overall foot health and hygiene.

Locate the best podiatrist near you in Arlington Heights, Illinois

Whether cleaning the house, going to work, or spending time with family, it is practically hard to do anything without being on your feet. As a result, the condition of your feet is crucial to your overall health. Consult a podiatrist or foot doctor near you in Arlington Heights, Illinois, using Zocdoc if you have foot arthritis or other podiatric issues.

You may search the website and use Zocdoc's free online services based on your health symptoms, location, and time. For example, if you type "foot pain in Arlington Heights" into the search form, the results will show the best podiatrists in your vicinity available for consultation. 

To find in-network doctors, add your insurance details to the search page. Once you have a list of chosen doctors, look at each doctor's detailed profile, including information about education, training, awards, expertise, and patient testimonials. Before you choose the best podiatrist, choose to refine your search results based on gender, hospital affiliations, language spoken, etc.

If you need assistance finding podiatrists who accept your insurance, our online patient support center is here to help. On Zocdoc, you can link your medical, dental, and vision insurance plans directly to your account, although you can use only one plan per appointment.

You can add your secondary insurance information in the appointment notes for those with multiple insurance plans. Additionally, if your provider utilizes Zocdoc's Intake forms, you can conveniently enter your secondary insurance details for streamlined access.

You can book in-person or virtual appointments based on the doctor's availability. Booking appointments with podiatrists near you on Zocdoc is secure, quick, and free! 

Arthritis statistics in Illinois, US

Arthritis is a common disability in the US, and affects people of all genders, races, and ages. In Illinois, according to statistics from America's Health Rankings for 2020, 24.4% of adults have some form of arthritis, confirmed by a medical expert. Arthritis affects the senior population of 65 and above in 54.7% of cases. Women (28.6%) are more affected than men (19.9%).

More than 2.3 million, or 24.8% of the adult population, had arthritis, according to the 2005 Illinois Department of Public Health report. It is an increase compared to the 2.2 million cases in 2002. Total knee replacements increased by over 25%, and hip replacements jumped over 13% between 2003 and 2005. About 33.2% of people with doctor-diagnosed arthritis reported that joint difficulties limited their activities. A doctor's diagnosis of arthritis affects 5.7% of adults aged 18 to 24 and 55.6% of those aged 65 and older.

Sources

The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics

Arthritis Foundation[1]

Arthritis Foundation[2]

Prine Health

Illinois Department of Public Health

America's Health Rankings

WebMD[1]

WebMD[2]

American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine.

UCLA Health

Happy Feet Plus

West Idaho Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

MedicalNewsToday

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.