Should I see a podiatrist?

When to See a Podiatrist

Yes, you should see a podiatrist if you have diabetes, foot deformities, loss of protective sensation, peripheral arterial disease, history of foot ulcers or amputations, or any active foot problems. 1

Risk Assessment for Foot Problems

The need for podiatric care depends on your risk factors:

• Very low risk: No loss of protective sensation (LOPS) and no peripheral arterial disease (PAD) - annual foot examination is sufficient 1
• Low risk: Either LOPS or PAD - see a podiatrist every 6-12 months 1
• Moderate risk: LOPS + PAD, or LOPS + foot deformity, or PAD + foot deformity - see a podiatrist every 3-6 months 1
• High risk: LOPS or PAD plus any of the following: history of foot ulcer, amputation, or end-stage renal disease - see a podiatrist every 1-3 months 1

Specific Conditions That Warrant Podiatric Care

Diabetes-Related Foot Problems

• Diabetic patients should have a comprehensive foot evaluation at least annually to identify risk factors for ulcers and amputations 1
• An interprofessional approach facilitated by a podiatrist is recommended for individuals with foot ulcers and high-risk feet (e.g., those on dialysis, those with Charcot foot, history of ulcers or amputation) 1

Foot Deformities

• Patients with foot deformities such as bunions (hallux valgus), hammertoes, claw toes, flatfoot, high-arch foot, or Charcot foot should be referred to a podiatrist 1
• These deformities can lead to foot ulcers due to joint immobility, friction, or pressure 1

Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)

• If you have symptoms of claudication (leg pain when walking) or decreased/absent pedal pulses, you should be referred for ankle-brachial index testing and further vascular assessment 1
• Individuals who smoke and have PAD should be referred to foot care specialists for ongoing preventive care 1

Skin and Nail Problems

• Hyperkeratosis (calluses/corns) can benefit from professional podiatric care, especially if they're causing pain or if you're unable to safely manage them yourself 1
• Severe nail pathology may require specialized podiatric treatment 1

Benefits of Podiatric Care

• Podiatrists can provide education on proper foot care, which has been shown to improve knowledge and self-care behaviors 2
• Professional podiatric intervention can reduce the prevalence of callosities and other minor foot problems 2
• Podiatrists can prescribe specialized therapeutic footwear for high-risk patients, which helps prevent ulceration 1
• Podiatrists are trained to identify not only foot and ankle problems but also other health issues that may affect overall health 3

When to Self-Manage vs. When to See a Podiatrist

Many common foot problems can be managed with over-the-counter treatments and home care:

• Plantar fasciitis often responds to stretching exercises and heel cups 4
• Minor calluses and corns can be managed with proper footwear and over-the-counter products 4
• Tinea pedis (athlete's foot) can be treated with over-the-counter antifungal medications 4

However, you should see a podiatrist when:

• You have diabetes or other conditions that affect circulation or sensation in your feet 1
• You have persistent pain despite home treatment 5
• You notice any unexplained swelling, redness, or increased skin temperature in your feet 1
• You have an open wound or ulcer on your foot 1
• You have significant foot deformities that affect your walking 1

Conclusion

Podiatrists play a crucial role in preventing serious foot complications, especially in high-risk individuals. Early intervention by a podiatrist can significantly reduce the risk of ulcers, infections, and amputations, which directly impacts morbidity, mortality, and quality of life.