The feet play a significant role in helping us move around daily. They support the weight of our entire body when we are standing, walking, and running. Consequently, the feet can end up enduring a lot of strain over time, which can lead to the development of an injury or a foot condition. If either occurs, it is important to see a podiatrist for treatment right away. See Dr. Michael Frank, Dr. Marc Goldberg, or Dr. Adam Lowy, the experienced podiatrist at Family Foot and Ankle Associates of Maryland serving the greater Washington, DC area, for the treatment of a foot injury or condition.
Types of Foot and Ankle Problems
There are many injuries and conditions that can affect the feet and ankles. Without proper treatment, some injuries or conditions can get progressively worse over time and even lead to chronic pain, discomfort, instability, and other problems. Podiatrists treat all types of foot and ankle concerns, including:
- Sprained ankles
- Fractures and breaks
- Achilles tendonitis
- Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
- Diabetes-related foot problems
- Bunions, corns, and calluses
- Ingrown toenails
- Hammertoes
- Fungal infections
- Overpronation
Signs You Need to See a Podiatrist
A foot condition or an injury to the feet or ankles can interfere with the ability to readily perform normal daily functions. Left untreated, some injuries and conditions can become progressively worse over time and potentially lead to additional problems. See a podiatrist at our office if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Ongoing pain in the feet or ankle
- The development of blisters on the feet
- Changes in the skin or nails on the feet
- Severe cracking, peeling, or scaling of the skin on the feet, especially the heels
- Foot or ankle problems that have not healed after two weeks of using over-the-counter products, such as non-prescription painkillers
Persistent pain or discomfort in the feet or ankles can be a sign that you may have an injury or foot condition, such as plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis. A podiatrist can develop a treatment plan for alleviating the pain and helping you heal from the injury or condition. Other symptoms could be signs of a bacterial infection, which can spread if not treated promptly. Signs of a possible bacterial infection in the feet include:
- Pus or discharge from an area of the foot
- Red streaks that extend from the affected area on the foot
- Increased swelling, tenderness, redness, or pain
- Thickening toenails that are causing discomfort
- Heel pain in combination with numbness, redness, or a fever
- Persistent tingling or pain in the heels even when no weight or pressure is put on them
- The spread of an infection from one area to another, such as from the nails to the surrounding skin
Whether you have an injury, a specific foot condition, or have developed an infection, it is essential that you seek medical treatment as soon as possible to maintain the health of your feet and ankles.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Frank, Dr. Goldberg, or Dr. Lowy, our skilled podiatrists, call Family Foot and Ankle Associates of Maryland in Silver Spring at (301) 439-0300. Other locations include Olney, Kensington, and Camp Springs/Clinton.