Common Conditions Podiatrists Treat
Arthritis:
Arthritis, in general terms, is inflammation and swelling of the cartilage and lining of the joints, generally accompanied by an increase in the fluid in the joints. Arthritis has multiple causes, just as a sore throat may have its origin in a variety of diseases, so joint inflammation and arthritis are associated with many different illnesses. Arthritic feet can result in loss of mobility and independence, but that may be avoided with early diagnosis and proper medical care. The Podiatric physician can treat arthritic conditions with physical therapy, specialized shoe inserts called orthotics, braces, medically prescribed shoes and even with surgical intervention.
Types of arthritis: Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), Gout (Gouty Arthritis), Psoriatic Arthritis, Lyme.
Diabetes:
Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects the lives of about 16 million people in the United States, 5.4 million of whom are unaware that they even have the disease. The long term effects of diabetes (elevated blood sugar levels) are: damage to the eyes, heart, feet, kidneys, nerves and blood vessels. Because diabetes is a systemic disease affecting different parts of the body, the Podiatric physician is an intrical part of the treatment team. Proper care by a Podiatrist can help prevent ulcerations, infections and amputations. The Podiatric physician cares for the diabetic by observing their feet for pathological changes and with preventative maintenance. The number one cause for diabetics to lose a toe, foot or leg is from improper foot care. Treatments vary from periodic maintenance, specialized shoes and inserts, wound care and surgical intervention. All of which aid in preventing the loss of mobility and suffering. This is why most insurance companies cover diabetic foot care.
