A podiatrist, a medical professional specializing in the care and treatment of the feet, ankles, and lower extremities, plays a pivotal role in maintaining overall foot health. Trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent a spectrum of foot-related conditions, podiatrists undergo extensive education, focusing on the intricacies of the musculoskeletal system below the knee. From common issues like ingrown toenails and plantar fasciitis to complex conditions, such as foot deformities and diabetic foot complications, podiatrists provide comprehensive care. They offer a range of treatments, including medication, orthotics, and in some cases, surgical intervention. Beyond addressing acute concerns, podiatrists emphasize preventive care, offering guidance on proper footwear, gait analysis, and lifestyle adjustments to promote optimal foot health. Given the intricate interplay between foot health and overall well-being, consulting a podiatrist ensures specialized care for your feet. If you are interested in pursuing a career in podiatry, it is suggested that you speak to this type of healthcare professional who can address any questions you may have.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Brunswick, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar warts, also known as verrucae plantaris, are warts that appear on the bottom of the feet, often in areas that bear weight like the heels, toes, and the middle of the foot. These warts can be particularly painful and difficult to treat because walking puts pressure on them, causing them to grow inward. Sometimes, many warts can grow together, forming what is known as mosaic warts. It can be hard to tell plantar warts apart from corns or calluses. Corns are hard skin that forms over joints from pressure and rubbing. They have a hard core and do not have the small black dots that warts do. Soft corns form in moist areas between toes due to pressure and rubbing. Another condition often mistaken for plantar warts is black heel, which can be seen in athletes like tennis or basketball players. This is where tiny blood vessels break, causing small black or brown spots on the heel or side of the foot. Carefully removing the top layer of skin can help separate this condition from warts, calluses, corns, and serious issues such as malignant melanoma. If you have what appears to be a wart on your foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Brunswick, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A bunion, or hallux valgus, is a common and often painful foot deformity that affects the joint at the base of the big toe. It manifests as a bony protrusion on the side of the foot, causing the big toe to drift towards the second toe. This misalignment of the joint results in the characteristic bump and can lead to discomfort, inflammation, and difficulty in finding properly fitting footwear. The primary cause of bunions is a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Inherited foot structures that predispose individuals to bunions, like flat feet or low arches, can increase the likelihood of developing this condition. Wearing tight-fitting shoes, particularly those with pointed toes or high heels, can exacerbate the problem or speed up its progression. High levels of stress on the foot or repetitive motion can also contribute to bunion formation. Understanding the causes of bunions is the first step in managing and preventing this condition. When detected early, conservative treatment methods can be helpful. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the alignment and provide lasting relief. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward the most appropriate course of treatment based on your specific condition.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Brunswick, ME . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.