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Podiatry
Podiatrists treat the feet and any problems associated with them. The most common problems they treat include skin conditions, calluses and corns, nail disorders such as ingrown toenails, soft tissue disorders such as sore arches and arthritis, as well as injuries and infections of the feet.
There are also certain types of health conditions that are more likely to result in serious foot problems, Diabetes, for example, damages nerves to the feet and reduces blood flow to the region, making it harder for injuries to heal. People with diabetes should have annual check-ups with their podiatrist and check regularly for cuts, blisters and bruises to the feet that they may not have felt happen.
Other conditions treated by podiatrists include injuries to the bone, arch pain (plantar fasciitis), inflammation of the ankle (achilles tendonitis) and pain at the base of the big toe (sesamoiditis).
How podiatrists can help
Podiatrists help you choose the right shoes with a firm heel, sufficient depth and width at the toes, a sole that absorbs shock and an upper that allows your feet to breathe.They can also prescribe orthoses, which are tailor-made shoe inserts that help align the structure of your feet to the most stable walking position and reduce pain in the foot, knee and hips.