What Do You Need To Know Before You See A Podiatrist?
A podiatrist is usually the last thing on your mind when your feet are healthy. We tend to mostly ignore our feet as long as they keep us moving and perfectly balanced. Sadly, our feet can develop problems that make us understand their importance.
However, if you find yourself experiencing foot problems and opting to book a podiatry appointment, there are a few things you should know before your appointment. Keep reading today’s blog article as we discuss what these include!
1). Make A List Of Your Symptoms
Your podiatrist will usually ask questions about your symptoms or the reason for your visit especially if it’s your first appointment. To get the most out of your visit, make sure to write down all that you can about your symptoms. It will help your podiatrist streamline their examination and make it easier for them to identify the most essential tests.
2). Wear Comfortable Clothing
If possible, wear clothes that you’re comfortable in and will allow the podiatrist to assess as far as the knees. If you’re unable to wear shorts, pants that can be rolled up are handy. If you prefer wearing dresses or skirts, consider wearing a pair of cycling shorts underneath, in case the podiatrist wishes to assess the range of motion of your legs.
3). X-Rays May Be Needed
Your podiatrist may order X-rays along with other diagnostic imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs for a better understanding of your foot condition or injury. While podiatrists can perform surgery, these tests allow your podiatrist to see the inside of your foot without the need to open your foot in a traditional surgery to aid in the diagnosis of your condition.
4). Feet Aren’t The Sole Focus
Many times, a foot condition is the result of a knee or ankle problem, and just as often a foot problem may cause issues for other parts of the lower leg. Podiatrists deal with the entire lower extremity, from the knees down to the toes. Your foot pain can be caused by how you walk or it can alter your gait. Podiatrists never look at your feet in isolation.
5). A Pedicure Isn’t Necessary
It’s generally advisable to come to a podiatrist’s office as you are. If you are usually self-conscious when it comes to clinical examinations, you might consider dressing up for the occasion and perhaps even getting a pedicure. Unfortunately, this can make it harder for the podiatrist to either take nail samples or do nail cultures to help confirm your diagnosis.
6). Don’t Apply Moisturiser
A podiatrist will usually advise you to apply moisturiser to your feet and legs. However, you should avoid it on the day of your appointment because if the podiatrist needs to use padding or tapping on the foot, this may prevent it from sticking quite well and they may not get the desired outcome. Given this, avoid moisturiser on the day of the appointment to ensure the best results with tapping/padding techniques.
7). Have A Desired Goal Or Outcome
If you can, have an idea of what goal you would like to achieve coming out of your podiatry appointment to help your podiatrist create a better management plan for you. This will help you get back on your feet doing what you love much sooner.
Contact Upwell Health Collective Today
If you are suffering pain in your ankles or feet, our podiatrists here at Upwell Health Collective can create a customised treatment plan to get you back on your feet within the shortest time possible.
Please get in touch with us at Upwell Health on (03) 8849 9096 or book an appointment today.