If You Have One of These Problems, You Need to Find a Podiatrist Now

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Foot problems are extremely common. In fact, very few people will go through life without experiencing at least a few ankle and foot injuries. But when can you let these heal on their own, and when is it time to make an appointment with a local podiatrist (ankle and foot doctor)? Here are five signs you need to find a podiatrist as quickly as possible:

1. If You Are Diabetic or Pre-Diabetic

   Because of the way diabetes affects blood flow and the nerves, it both causes foot problems and makes it difficult for you to self-assess how serious they are. A simple ingrown toenail can quickly turn into an issue requiring surgery or even amputation, so it’s best not to delay in seeking help.

2. If You See Any Signs of Infection

   Any sign of infection in the feet should be promptly treated by a medical professional. Those signs include swelling, redness, heat, foul odor, and pus draining from an open sore or wound.

3. If You Feel Numbness or Tingling

   Both numbness and tingling can indicate problems with the nervous system, which is something that needs to be addressed immediately. This is a problem that is very unlikely to go away on its own.

4. If You’re Seeing Lumps and Bumps

   Although many lumps in or on the feet are just harmless cysts or callous buildups, there’s always a chance that a growth is a tumor. It’s simply not worth taking the risk that it’s the latter, and you’ll get peace of mind by having it assessed.

5. If Your Symptoms Don’t Go Away

   In general, you shouldn’t be waiting more than a week or so for foot injury symptoms to dissipate. Keep in mind that what you think is just a bruise or stubbed toe could be something more serious (like a stress fracture) if it isn’t healing quickly on its own.

What are some other symptoms that indicate it’s best to find a podiatrist, rather than trying at-home treatments? Join the discussion in the comments.

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