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What is podiatry?
Podiatry is a field of medicine that focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating conditions associated with foot and ankle by medical, surgical or other means. Disorders of the foot and ankle are among the most widespread and neglected health problems. Because many diseases are often shown by symptoms in the feet, the podiatrist frequently sees patients afflicted with disorders like diabetes, arthritis, immunodeficiency, and circulatory problems.
Is podiatry care covered by my insurance?
Yes, most care rendered by a podiatrist falls under regular medical benefits and is covered. Specific coverage limits are available from your insurer.
When should I visit a podiatrist?
If you have any of the following conditions or symptoms in your foot and/or ankles, you should take an appointment to see a podiatrist:
• Diabetes and/or poor circulation
• Heel Pain Discolored, yellow or ingrown toenails
• Soreness, swelling, numbness or tingling
• Open sores or ulcerations
• Hammer toes, bunions, arthritis, gout
What are Orthotics & how can they help me?
Orthotics are devices customized to your particular needs by your podiatrist to alleviate pain in your feet, ankles, legs, knees, hips or lower back. These podiatrist designed customized orthotics should not be confused with commonly available over-the-counter arch support or inserts made by stand-alone scanners
For your active lifestyle or if you are an athlete, orthotics provide much needed support to the ligaments & bones structures of your feet. Orthotics can alleviate your pain associated with Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles Tendonitis, Shin Splints and Neuroma.
For your child, orthotics are designed to address common childhood issues such as flat feet, limb-length discrepancy and gait disturbances.
For diabetics, orthotics prevent diabetic foot ulceration, major cause of diabetic foot infections.
For senior citizens, orthotics are used to relieve pain caused by excessive pressure.
Almost everybody’s foot function can be improved through the use of customized orthotics.
When should I consider surgery for foot issues?
Although many of the foot issues can be managed through non-surgical treatment, you should consider surgical option if you have chronic heal pain, progressive bunion deformity, overlapping painful toes, displaced fractures, bone infections & tumors.