Podiatrist Tips

5 important reasons to consult your podiatrist

According to Dr. Julie Gauvreau, podiatrist and owner of the Pied Outaouais clinic.

First reason

Hallux Valgus, also known as “Bunion”, is a degenerating bone deformity. This pathology is unfortunately hereditary. The progression of this condition causes pain and deterioration of the articulation thus leading to arthrosis in the big toe. A consultation with a podiatrist is an important step to avoid progressive deformity, to control the pain linked to this condition and to avoid surgery.

Second reason

Plantar warts are very contagious. This virus, known as human papillomavirus (HPV), can be found on many public surfaces in changing rooms and around pools. The virus can spread quickly to members of your family from direct contact with surfaces in the shower, bathtub and even through floors. The best decision is to treat the plantar wart as soon as possible by visiting your local podiatrist. Our clinic offers several treatments to get rid of this unpleasant virus as fast as possible.

Third reason

Ingrown toe nails do not improve over time. The more you walk, the more your toes bump your inner shoe. This will result in the thickening of your nails. A thick nail will curve because it lacks flexibility and malleability generating a pressure in the nail grooves. The risk of inflammation in the surrounding tissues increases, which can lead to lesions of the skin and an infection. The shoe environment is opportune to bacteria and fungal infection. It is best to treat ingrown nails at the first sight of symptoms.

Fourth reason

Plantar Fasciitis is an inflammation of the ligament under the arch. This condition is caused by excess stress on the foot. It is important to consult a podiatrist if the pain persists more than four to six weeks. Podiatrists can evaluate and establish a treatment plan convenient for your distinct needs. Your podiatrist can suggest shoes, a tapping of the foot, cortisone injection and/or plantar orthotics. Without treatment, the risk is an increasing amount of pain and/or a compensation.

Fifth reason

The diabetic foot is the most important of all! The diabetic patient is more at risk of neuropathy and circulation damage. When these two conditions are combined, regular assessments and treatments with a podiatrist are necessary. The goal is to prevent infections since the heeling process is slower in diabetic patients. We recommend one or two treatments per year with nondiabetic patients and three to four treatments per year with prediabetic and diabetic patients. A podiatrist can create and explain your treatment plan. For more information, please contact us or follow us on our social network.

Dr Julie Gauvreau, owner and podiatrist at Pied Outaouais.