Monday, December 19, 2016

Why It Is Important To See A Foot Doctor In Longmont

By Brian Rogers


Most people never give thought to the condition of their various body parts until they start to experience problems. Doctors agree that a large number of people, even those that fastidiously look after their health, often neglect their feet and ankles. Yet the ability to walk and run is the cornerstone of mobility. Painful feet and ankles can be debilitating. Luckily, a foot doctor in Longmont can often help help people to become mobile again.

The name for doctors that specialize in treating the ankles and feet is a podiatrist. They are, in fact, highly qualified specialist. Before they can apply for specialist training in this field they first have to qualify as an ordinary medical doctor. The specialist training requires a further four years of intensive study and practical experience. Podiatrists are qualified to treat their patients both medically and surgically.

One of the biggest mistakes people make is to simply ignore pain in the feet or swelling of the ankles. If these conditions persist for more than a day or two it is important to seek medical help. The longer one waits the worse the problem will become and the more complex and expensive the treatment will be. Seeking help immediately can help avoid invasive treatment such as surgery.

Some of the biggest problems that podiatrists have to deal with are injuries caused by patients when they tried to treat themselves. They cut at growths on the feet with implements that are neither suitable for the job nor sterile. This can cause complications such as infection. In the majority of cases self treatment will only make the problem worse. It is better to see a specialist without delay.

It is interesting to note that the majority of patients consulting podiatrists are women. This is because women wear high heels. These shoes are a major cause of pain and discomfort in the feet and ankles. High heels place the toes, soles and ankles under very great pressure. This can cause growths and weak tendons. Podiatrists advise women to avoid wearing high heels or at least to wear them as seldom as possible and never for long periods at a time.

Sportsmen often develop pain in the feet and ankles, injuries to the tendons and even to the ligaments because they also wear the wrong shoes. Every type of sport is typified by specific types of movement, such as jumping or suddenly stopping or changing direction. Manufacturers design sports shoes to make allowances for the demands of every different type of sport. It is vital to wear the shoes specifically designed for the sport in question.

Much can be done to prevent problems with the feet. The first rule is to make sure that the feet are clean and dry at all times. Only shoes that fit properly should be worn. Podiatrists also advise their patients to go barefoot as often as possible and to stand on their toes for five minutes at a time at least a few times each day.

Pain in the feet and ankles often lead to impaired mobility. This can have a negative influence on the independence of the sufferer. However, by caring for the feet and by seeking help at the first sign of problems long term suffering can be avoided.




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