There are many reasons to visit the family doctor throughout the year. For colds and the flu, this is enough to get adequate treatment and continue your life without limitations. However, the proper diagnosis and treatment of ailments in your feet require a specialized hand. A podiatrist in Racine, WI will not only have the know-how to diagnose a problem correctly the first time but also to suggest the right treatment.
Although there are many reasons to see a podiatrist, there are several that are potentially limb- or even life-threatening. Your feet support you in everything you do, so taking their care to a professional is important. If you have a serious or long-term condition, this is especially true.
Diabetes
Diabetes significantly increases the likelihood that you will experience foot problems over the course of your lifetime. These issues can be mild, such as dry skin, or severe, such as serious infections. These infections, such as gangrene, are extremely dangerous and they can lead to the loss of your foot or even your entire leg.
If you have diabetes, you must visit your podiatrist regularly to help prevent such serious illnesses before they can start. In fact, a regular visit to a podiatry clinic can reduce your risk of amputation as much as 50%. The more often you visit the specialist, the longer you can enjoy your life without physical impairments.
Heel Spurs
Not all heel spurs cause pain or other problems, but these bony growths on your heel can quickly get out of hand. A foot specialist can help diagnose the severity of a heel spur and help you develop a treatment plan. These are much less serious than other conditions, but they can mimic the symptoms. Therefore, it is important to get a diagnosis from a trained specialist. The sooner you visit the clinic, the sooner you can walk pain-free.
