Podiatrist in Northern, Indiana

What is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor who specializes in conditions that affect your feet, ankles, and lower legs. Our board-certified podiatrists examine and diagnose these issues before creating a treatment plan. At OSMC, our podiatry specialists in Michiana utilize the most advanced podiatric care techniques available in the region. Podiatrists may specialize in podiatric surgery, wound care, diabetes, pediatric podiatry, or other specialties.

When Should I See a Podiatrist?

Most common issues that affect your feet aren’t life-threatening. This may make it tempting to ignore your symptoms or treat your pain with over-the-counter solutions. However, self-diagnosis and treatment may inadvertently allow a minor issue to worsen. Your foot contains 26 bones and a complex mix of ligaments, muscles, tendons, and joints. A professional diagnosis is required for proper treatment. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, schedule an appointment with an OSMC podiatrist in Michiana or visit one of our orthopedic urgent walk-in clinics.

• Swelling
• Pain
• Redness
• Discoloration
• Warmth in the area of concern
• New growths on or under your skin

Our board-certified podiatrists will diagnose and create a personalized treatment plan to help you beat foot pain.

What Conditions Can a Podiatrist Treat?

There are many reasons you may need to see a podiatrist. If you suffer from foot or ankle pain, you may need a specialist to diagnose and treat your problems. Some problems podiatrists treat include:

• Heel pain (plantar fasciitis)
• Foot complications from diabetes
• Ankle and foot arthritis
• Nerve problems
• Tendonitis
• Hammertoe
• Flat feet
• Nail disorders
• Bunions
• Warts, Fungus
• Fractures and sprains

Your top-rated OSMC podiatrist will create a treatment plan based on your medical history and diagnosis. This may include prescription medicine or medical devices such as orthotics, braces, or casts. They may suggest physical therapy or mobility devices like walkers. If these more conservative options don’t provide improvement, your podiatrist may recommend surgery.

If you require surgery, these procedures are usually performed at the OSMC’s outpatient surgery center. However, most OSMC podiatry patients have skin and soft-tissue problems that can be successfully treated without surgery. This includes diabetic patients who are particularly susceptible to problems with their feet that can quickly become life-threatening.

What Risk Factors are Related to Foot Problems?

While anyone can have foot and ankle problems, certain health conditions can make you more susceptible to issues involving your feet and ankles. Some of these conditions include:

• Diabetes
• Arthritis
• Obesity
• High Cholesterol
• Heart Disease
• Poor Circulation

Diabetic patients have an increased risk of foot problems. The specialists at OSMC in Michiana can help reduce the chance of foot-related complications for many people with diabetes. It is essential to manage your diabetes and pay attention to any changes in how your feet feel. An increase in foot pain may indicate an underlying condition that requires treatment.

Podiatry Treatment in Michiana

There’s no reason to suffer even mild foot pain. Our podiatry specialists are available to help. See our Michiana region foot doctors today to find relief. Book an appointment online or by calling 574-319-1572.