What Conditions Does a Foot Doctor Treat?
A foot doctor, also known as a podiatrist, treats a wide range of conditions affecting the feet, ankles, and lower extremities. Common conditions include bunions, which are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe, and hammertoes, where the toe bends abnormally at the middle joint. Podiatrists also manage plantar fasciitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot that causes heel pain. They treat various forms of arthritis that affect the foot and ankle joints, providing both conservative and surgical options to alleviate pain and improve function.
In addition to these structural and inflammatory conditions, podiatrists address skin and nail issues, such as fungal infections, ingrown toenails, and corns and calluses. They also treat diabetic foot complications, including neuropathy and ulcers, which require specialized care to prevent severe outcomes like infections and amputations. Podiatrists offer care for sports injuries, including sprains, fractures, and tendonitis, helping athletes recover and prevent future injuries. Through comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans, foot doctors help maintain and restore foot health and mobility.