Did you know that the state of your feet can impact your overall health? Whether you experience abnormal growths or pain in your feet, you must see one of the best podiatrists in Maryville, IL, for an examination. This is especially important if you have been dealing with the feet issue for weeks. Issues with your feet can impact your hips, knees, and back because they affect your gait and balance. Below are some signs you should visit a podiatrist:

You Experience Foot Pain and Swelling

If your foot hurts and is swelling without an obvious reason, you may have an issue with your bone, connective tissue, or joint. Also, you can have foot pain because of increased activity intensity. Foot conditions that can result in pain and swelling include plantar fasciitis, strains and sprains, osteoarthritis, and Achilles tendonitis. Thankfully, conservative treatments can cure most foot pain and swelling. 

You Have Corns and Calluses

These foot issues develop because of friction between your shoes and toes. This often occurs when you wear unsupportive or ill-fitting shoes. Corns and calluses look like thickened skin that becomes painful over time. Podiatrists can get rid of these issues using a surgical blade or through medication.

You Have Bone Protrusion

Bunions develop on your big toe joint’s outer portion. They can impact your gait and balance. If you have bunions, your shoes may not fit comfortably. A podiatrist may recommend shoe inserts or padding and taping to reduce pain associated with bunions. For serious cases, a podiatrist may carry out surgery to get rid of the problematic bunion. 

Foot Numbness and Loss of Sensation

Those who have diabetes must be particularly vigilant with their feet. Nerve damage and poor circulation may cause loss of sensation and numbness in their lower extremities. When this happens, a person can miss a wound or scrape that may result in an infection. A podiatrist can offer diabetic foot care to help prevent wound infections that can result in limb loss.

Fungal Growth

You can develop a fungal infection when you spend time in public showers, in a nail salon, or around swimming pools. When not treated promptly, these infections can cause your nails to thicken and change color. Also, the infection can spread to your other toenails. Fungal infections because of tinea fungus may recur. Podiatrists can prescribe prescription creams for these infections.

Podiatrists can diagnose and treat different foot and ankle conditions. If you have any type of foot issues that do not go away, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist as soon as possible to avoid further complications.