Make the Most of Your Podiatrist
At Goldsmith Podiatry, we want to encourage our Manhattan patients to take advantage of our podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith, Dr. Rosanna Troia and Dr. Kristina Ruff. During the month of October, there’s a special day we recognize: International Podiatry Day. It’s a good time to remind patients of all the ways your podiatrist can help you live a healthier life.
Foot and Ankle Diseases and Injuries
The most obvious reason most patients visit the podiatrist is when they experience foot or ankle discomfort. Podiatrists undergo years of schooling and rigorous training to qualify as podiatric medicine doctors (DPM). The podiatrist is uniquely qualified to diagnose your problem, whether you’re experiencing foot pain due to a chronic condition, a new injury, or a systemic disease. They can also prescribe various treatments, from medication to physical therapy and exercise to special medical equipment and devices to relieve pain and improve foot function. When conservative methods don’t bring the desired results, your podiatrist can perform surgery on the foot and ankle to correct a physical problem.
Screening for Health Conditions
Many patients don’t realize the podiatrist can also help evaluate your risk for many common podiatric and systemic diseases and conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis. Many of these have a genetic component. The foot doctor will get your medical history and know what other questions to ask to determine your chances of developing a particular condition. Several systemic diseases, such as heart disease and hypertension, may show signs in your feet. Assessments for things like fall risk can help you take steps now to protect your feet and overall health in the future.
Improving Your Sports Performance
Your feet play a key role in how your game goes or how comfortable you are with your regular fitness routine. The podiatrist can evaluate your gait and make recommendations for shoes or orthotics that can protect your feet and enhance your ability to participate in sports and fitness activities.
Maintaining a Healthy and Active Lifestyle
At every age and stage of life, you can make choices to ensure your feet maintain the highest degree of function. For infants, children, adults, and senior citizens, the podiatrist can help you develop a care regimen for your feet and encourage lifestyle modifications that will allow you to stay in shape and maintain a healthy weight.
Your podiatrist is a partner in your total health care. If you have questions or concerns about any aspect of your lower extremity health, don’t hesitate to take advantage of our special skills. Contact our Upper West Side office today by calling: 212-877-1002.