Imagine waking up one day, noticing your feet lay flat on the ground, more than they ever did before. You feel an unusual discomfort, a pain that wasn’t there earlier. You may have flat feet, but don’t worry. In this blog, we’re going to examine how a podiatrist – a foot doctor – can help treat this. We’ll also touch on ‘Mill Creek warts,’ which are another common foot issue that can be addressed by the same professional. Let’s dive straight in.
Understanding Flat Feet
Flat feet, sometimes called fallen arches, simply means your feet have low or no arches and press almost completely flat against the ground. It’s a condition that can occur naturally or develop over time due to age, weight gain, or an injury.
The Role of a Podiatrist
A podiatrist is a healthcare professional who specializes in feet and lower limbs. They can diagnose flat feet by observing your feet and how they touch the ground. They might also ask you to walk or stand on your toes to see how your feet’s shape changes.
Treatment for Flat Feet
Once diagnosed, a podiatrist may recommend various treatments depending on the severity. Here are a few of them:
- Over-the-counter arch supports fitted into shoes.
- Custom-designed orthotics, crafted to fit the contours of your feet.
- Foot exercises to strengthen the feet and arches.
What are Mill Creek warts?
Mill Creek warts, officially known as plantar warts, are rough, fleshy growths that usually appear on the heels or balls of your feet, areas that feel the most pressure. This pressure may also cause plantar warts to grow inward beneath a hard, thick layer of skin.
Treating Mill Creek Warts
Like flat feet, a podiatrist can also help treat Mill Creek warts. They might use methods like:
- Applying a topical acid solution to gradually peel away the wart.
- Using cryotherapy to freeze the wart, making it easy to remove.
- Prescribing an immune therapy cream to boost your body’s immune response to fight the wart.
Conclusion
Whether you’re dealing with flat feet or Mill Creek warts, a podiatrist can help. So, don’t ignore any discomfort or unusual changes in your feet. It’s not just about foot health; it’s about overall wellbeing. Remember, your feet carry you through life, so it’s essential to take good care of them.
