Rogers Foot & Ankle Institute

What To Look For In A Foot And Ankle Specialist?

Aug 08, 2022
What To Look For In A Foot And Ankle Specialist?
When seeking treatment for a podiatric injury or condition, you’ll want your foot and ankle specialist to be compassionate, skilled, and knowledgeable enough to get you moving again. However, many Saratoga Springs residents put off seeing a foot.....

When seeking treatment for a podiatric injury or condition, you’ll want your foot and ankle specialist to be compassionate, skilled, and knowledgeable enough to get you moving again. However, many Saratoga Springs residents put off seeing a foot and ankle specialist for a variety of reasons, including:

  • They believe their foot and ankle pain will go away soon.
  • They don’t recognize common foot and ankle conditions or understand that they are treatable.
  • They’re worried they will need surgery for foot and ankle injuries.
  • They think foot issues aren’t severe enough to warrant specialist care (podiatric medicine).

What To Do If You Experience Foot And Ankle Pain?

The majority of people will suffer from foot and ankle pain at some point in their lives. Most foot and ankle pain is temporary, as it is caused by soft-tissue injuries such as strains and sprains. Such pain should be easy to treat with simple self-care, but for some conditions, you may need to see a foot and ankle doctor.

Here are simple self-care tips to try when you experience foot and ankle pain:

  • Use a pain-relieving gel and paracetamol to reduce discomfort and pain.
  • Rest to avoid stressing the injured foot or ankle with your weight.
  • Place an ice pack on the painful areas for 20 minutes every three hours.
  • Wrap a bandage around the painful area.
  • Elevate your foot.

Occasional gentle massages on the affected area will increase the blood flow and reduce the swelling. However, it’s best to see a specialist for some foot and ankle conditions while avoiding heat packs, hot baths, and over-the-counter medication.

How Can Foot And Ankle Specialists Help?

A correct diagnosis is required before developing a treatment plan for ankle or foot pain. Foot and ankle specialists have received extensive training in the anatomy, health, function, and diseases that may affect your foot and ankle. They are aware of the stresses and strains that your daily life can put on your lower extremities.

Foot and ankle specialists are also well-versed in any condition that may affect your feet and ankles as a result of injuriesdiabetesarthritis, aging, or overtraining. The podiatrists at Rogers Foot and Ankle Institute will provide you with a proper diagnosis and comprehensive care to get you back to living a mobile and pain-free life.

Benefits Of Visiting A Foot And Ankle Specialist

A visit to the Rogers Foot and Ankle Institute’s podiatrists is extremely beneficial for living a comfortable, mobile, and pain-free life. This is why:

Podiatrists Know Their Stuff.

Your doctor may be knowledgeable about your overall health, but podiatrists are subject matter experts. They understand the mechanism behind your foot and ankle, so you can rely on them to relieve any pain and discomfort in this area.

They Treat Many Foot And Ankle Conditions.

Podiatrists receive extensive training and can treat a wide range of foot conditions. Make an appointment with a foot and ankle doctor at the Rogers Foot and Ankle Institute if you are experiencing any of the following problems:

  • Thick calluses or corns
  • Heel problems that don’t seem to go away.
  • Ingrown toenails that seem to be getting worse
  • A persistent fungal infection
  • Constant joint pain
  • Bunions that cause you discomfort
  • Numbness and tingling

Even if it appears to be a minor symptom, please schedule an appointment with a foot and ankle specialist to avoid it becoming a major problem.

Podiatrists Understand What You Need To Heal.

You can rely on podiatrists to take the necessary steps to assist you in recovering. Following the preliminary diagnosis, the podiatrist may order tests such as CT scans and MRIs to pinpoint the source of your problem. Podiatrists can also perform surgeries, prescribe pain medication, and advise patients on physical therapy or lifestyle changes that will help them heal.

Podiatrists Help Prevent Future Injuries.

When it comes to health, prevention is everything. Seeing your podiatrist regularly will help keep your ankles and feet healthy and strong, as well as identify any underlying problems before they become severe. Patients with diabetes will benefit greatly from regular podiatrist visits.

How To Choose A Foot And Ankle Specialist?

Here are essential qualifications to consider when choosing a foot or ankle specialist in Saratoga Springs, UT:

  • Credentials

Is your doctor a board-certified podiatrist with the American Board of Podiatric Medicine? Patients who need surgery should make sure their foot and ankle surgeon is a member of the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.

  • Experience

How long has your foot doctor been practicing? How often has your foot and ankle care specialist handled the specific procedure you need?

  • Expertise

What services does a foot and ankle specialist offer? Examples include custom orthotics, laser nail treatments, sports medicine, diabetic foot, and ankle care, or arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery.

  • Diagnostics

Ultrasound and digital x-ray imaging on-site are critical for accurately detecting infections, fractures, and other health issues affecting your feet and ankles. Can the foot and ankle specialists you’re considering provide these services?

  • Treatment Options

You will require the services of a foot and ankle specialist who will use the most conservative treatments to relieve your pain, only recommending ankle surgery as a last resort.

  • Convenience

Many professional health services are available at a medical practice with much on-site foot and ankle specialists. In addition, look for working hours that correspond to your hectic schedule and consider whether they accept same-day, evening, or weekend appointments.

  • Welcoming Atmosphere

While treating you with respect, an ankle specialist should consider your overall health and carefully listen to your symptoms, preferences, and concerns. Your foot or ankle injury may worsen if your specialist rushes you out of their office without listening to your concerns.

Contact The Foot And Ankle Specialists In Saratoga Springs, UT!

Rogers Foot and Ankle Institute in Saratoga Springs, UT, offers expert podiatry services to help you live a pain-free life. From common foot problems to ankle emergencies, our doctors expertly diagnose every foot and ankle condition and provide treatment options that will put you on the right track in life. To schedule an appointment, please call 801-756-4200.