Sue Turner, D.P.M
I am a podiatrist (foot doctor) based in Vancouver, British Columbia. Since 1991 I have had the privilege of treating people and their foot problems - I've seen over 18,000 pair. Wow, that is a lot of feet, and a lot of people attached to those feet! I love every challenge that comes my way and have a keen interest in attempting to solve what appear to be unsolvable problems for people. Sometimes people come in limping and they leap away!
Regular Pod Care
You may wonder - how often should I see a podiatrist? Maybe never. If you have no foot, knee, hip or back pain; you're not a diabetic or have poor blood flow; you have no difficulty fitting shoes or have any problems associated with exercising or simply being on your feet, then you probably don't need to see a podiatrist. That may be 25% of the population. And most of those are children. The rest of us probably could find some value in seeing a podiatrist - when to go and how often?
Foot pain - give yourself 1 week to heal on your own, unless there is significant swelling, warmth, pain or growth of a mass. What happens often is that though foot pain may go away, the body may find a different way to walk to alleviate the pain and later on new problems may develop. These problems may end up being more serious and longstanding than the original foot pain. If you have seen a podiatrist for a foot problem and have not improved in the estimated amount of time, go back and find out what to do next. One of the biggest reasons for non-response to treatment is a lack of follow-up with the same practitioner.
Knee pain - many knee problems are a result of poor foot mechanics. If there are no associated foot problems, the feet could still be the culprit. If you've seen a physio or sports medicine specialist for more than 5 visits and there is no improvement, consider taking a different approach.
Back pain - an astounding percentage of people with back problems also have faulty foot biomechanics. This problem can be properly assessed by a podiatrist. If you've gone the gamut of treatment for your back, consider getting a podiatric opinion.
Nail problems - if you have difficulty cutting nails due to arthritis, aging, failed eyesight, or thick or painful nails, then you should consider seeing a podiatrist every 5 to 8 weeks for regular care. Ingrown toenails should be evaluated as soon as you notice symptoms. Most ingrown toenails can be treated without antibiotics if the offending nail spicule is removed before it becomes infected. Even if the toe is red and swollen, most people do not need antibiotics if they see a podiatrist for treatment. Some ingrown toenail problems can be permanently corrected with a simple surgical procedure.
Corns - although it may seem like an insignificant thing - a little corn on a toe - it can be unbelievably painful and debilitating. Some corns can become infected and they may be hiding a deeper ulceration. It is in your best interest to have the problem assessed by a podiatrist. Many corns can be cured. The ones that cannot be cured should be trimmed as often as they come back (every 4 weeks to 4 years).
Diabetics - if you are on insulin, you should see a podiatrist every 5 to 8 weeks, religiously. If you are not on insulin, you should see a podiatrist for an assessment and follow his or her recommendations for how often to return. If you have even the smallest wound or problem with the feet you should see a podiatrist and diabetic physician immediately.
Poor Blood Flow - if you are disabled and in a wheelchair (spinal cord injuries and multiple sclerosis especially), elderly with circulation problems or have heart disease you are likely to have poor blood flow. This means you should let a podiatrist provide regular care for your feet - every 5 to 8 weeks.
Arthritis - many people with severe progressive arthritis develop numerous problems with their feet. Also, immune-suppressing medications may impair wound healing abilities. Regular podiatric care can be extremely helpful - every 5 weeks to 6 months, depending on the severity of the problems.
Children - it is wise to have your child assessed by a podiatrist within the first 5 years. This will most likely be for a preventive assessment. If your child has foot pain they should definitely be assessed and treated. Some problems such as bunions, problems related to pronated feet including long term knee and back problems can be prevented or delayed by seeking early treatment. If your child has intoeing, outtoeing, bunions or any other foot, knee or back problem they should be assessed every 6 to 12 months. Any new problems that develop should be assessed immediately.
The Singing
Podiatrist
604-736-1910
943 W. Broadway, Suite 530
WHAT IS A FOOT DOCTOR? >
A foot doctor is a medical specialist who treats feet. Any foot problem (and some knee, hip and back problems) can be evaluated and treated by a podiatrist. More...
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