A podiatrist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating ankle and foot problems. These foot specialists deal with a wide range of problems, including ingrown toenails, heel spurs, corns, fractures, sprains, and calluses. The following are some other common conditions you can refer to a foot specialist.

1. Arthritis

Podiatry is relevant to people suffering from arthritis. This is because arthritis affects the joints of your feet, making it difficult to walk or even stand. The joints also become deformed, which affects the shoes a sufferer can wear.

The podiatrist will perform a gait analysis when examining the extent of your arthritis condition. During this test, you'll be asked to walk up and down the room while the podiatrist examines your walking action. The foot specialist will be keen on the way you walk and how much pressure you exert on your feet. They'll also be concerned with the movement in the joints.

After the gait analysis test, the podiatrist may run ultrasound scans and X-rays. Your podiatrist will also recommend orthotics or insoles to correct any problems with your walking gait. They may also prescribe special shoes to support your problematic foot. Your podiatrist will also instruct you about how you should walk to ease pressure on your problematic foot.

2. Bunions

A foot specialist also addresses bunion problems. Bunion is a foot condition characterized by a swollen bony bump on the joint at the bottom of your big toe. Bunion is not only a genetic condition but it can also be caused by wearing tight shoes and biomechanical factors like flat feet or low arches. A podiatrist can offer numerous options to help treat bunions, relieve pain, and reduce the severity of your condition.

Most podiatrists recommend padding and taping for bunions. Padding is used for minimizing pain and helps you lead a normal life. Taping keeps your foot in a position that reduces pain and stress. Your podiatrist may also prescribe cortisone injections and anti-inflammatory drugs to ease acute pain and inflammation.

3. Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition that affects your ability to use insulin and hampers your body's capacity to convert sugary foods into energy. As a result, you experience high blood sugar, also known as hyperglycemia. This can cause severe damage to your eyes, kidney, heart, and feet. 

Studies show that over 100,000 lower limbs are amputated every year because of diabetes. Therefore, going to a podiatrist for regular checkups can significantly reduce your risk of limb amputation. It also lowers your risk of being hospitalized. A podiatrist will be able to spot problems through regular foot screenings.