
Should I See a GP or a Podiatrist for Foot Pain?
If you are experiencing foot pain, it may be difficult to determine the best health professional to visit. Podiatrists and GPs are focused on different areas of health, and a podiatrist may be better suited at helping with certain kinds of foot pain.
When it comes to conditions specific to the foot, podiatrists are trained to identify them and work to alleviate their symptoms. If you are suffering from a sprained ankle, fungal nails, or just want the best advice on how to look after your ankles and feet, your podiatrist is generally the best place to go. Whereas in the case you have a general health concern, a GP can provide the generalise medical support you’re after.
For personalised advice on anything relating to lower limb conditions, contact our team at Midland Podiatry today.
Types of Foot Pain a Podiatrist Can Help With
Podiatrists are trained to treat several different foot conditions. If you suffer from any of these conditions, it is a good idea to visit a podiatrist for assessment and potential treatment.
- Nail Fungus: Nail Fungus is often contracted through exposure to unsanitary environments, such as nail salons and public pools. Exposing your bare feet to these conditions increases the risk of infection and is one of the reasons nail fungus is so common. Untreated nail fungus may warp your nails and cause discomfort or pain. Podiatrists are very practised with the various ways to address nail fungus. Visit your podiatrist in Midland if you suspect you have nail fungus to get started on treatment today.
- Athletes Foot: Athlete’s Foot is a common condition that has a few different over-the-counter treatments. However, if these treatments have not worked, a podiatrist may be able to provide further options to clear the infection.
- Ingrown Toenails: An ingrown toenail may be painful if left untreated. A podiatrist may remove ingrown nails quickly with pain relief in an effort to reduce discomfort.
- Joint Pain: If you are suffering from joint pain in the foot or ankle, it is a good idea to see your podiatrist to help identify the cause of the pain. Once the cause is identified, they may be able to assist with a personalised treatment.
- Heel Pain: Many different conditions can cause heel pain. If you are suffering from recurring heel pain, you may have a condition called plantar fasciitis. Your podiatrist will assess you and work with you to address your heel pain, so it is a good idea to consult with them.
- Other Foot and Ankle Conditions: This is hardly an exhaustive list of the types of conditions a podiatrist can treat. Treating both skin and nail and musculoskeletal conditions of the foot, podiatrists are here to help when you are experiencing any lower limb concerns. Plus, their range of treatments are extensive, ranging from in-clinic treatments to custom orthotics.
If you are experiencing any kind of recurring foot or ankle aches or pains, it is a good idea to visit your podiatrist. Making sure your feet are cared for correctly is a podiatrist’s top priority.
When is it Time to Visit a GP?
If you are having foot issues of any kind, a podiatrist is a great way to have your conditions identified or treated. If the condition requires a General Practitioner’s input, your podiatrist will let you know and can help you understand what treatment you might need instead.
As podiatrists are solely focused on foot and ankle problems, it is a good idea to visit them first for a professional opinion. While your GP is adept at addressing a variety of health problems, a podiatrist is trained to focus on specific foot, ankle, and leg conditions.
If you are experiencing any other symptoms along with your foot or ankle pain, like pains in other areas of the body, it may be a good idea to speak with your GP. If your condition or injury is outside of the foot or ankle region, contacting your GP is a good idea to make sure your symptoms are treated as a whole.
Should I Speak to my Podiatrist or GP?
If you are unsure about the severity of your condition, it may be difficult to determine who the right person to go to for treatment is. As podiatrists are trained closely to treat issues with the foot and ankle, it is best to speak to them first to get your conditions identified and organise a treatment plan.
At Midland Podiatry, we understand there is a wide variety of conditions you could be suffering from, from fungal nails to joint injuries to different kinds of heel or ankle pains. If you are suffering from any of these conditions or want advice on how best to look after your feet more regularly, don’t hesitate to contact us today. With our experience, we are happy to help find the most appropriate treatments for you.