Medical practitioners have a range of specialties that they may focus on, such as your feet. Therefore, if you're having problems with your foot due to an injury or an ingrown toenail, it's time to see a podiatrist. At Podiatry Associates Northwest in Bellevue, Seattle, Issaquah, and Redmond, WA, Dr. Anthony Lo and Dr. Rodney Yen are your local foot specialists who can help with a range of foot diagnoses and treatments.

What Is Podiatry?

Your podiatrist is a foot doctor. These medical specialists concentrate on the overall health, well-being, and treatment of your foot, ankle, and lower leg. You can see them for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of several issues, such as sports injuries, bunions, Achilles tendinitis, or diabetic foot care. Foot doctors can perform surgery when you have injuries that require more intervention, such as bone spurs.

To become a podiatry professional, your local foot doctor had to finish four years of study and training at a podiatric medical school. They must also complete a hospital and clinic residency that lasts about three years. Once they successfully finish medical training, they become officially certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine.

When Should I See a Podiatrist in Bellevue, Seattle, Issaquah, and Redmond, WA?

If you suspect an injury or experience excessive pain in your foot, don't hesitate to see your local podiatrist. You might have persistent foot pain that results in throbbing, redness, or swelling. It could be the result of a sprain, such as an ankle sprain. Be aware of changes in your foot structure, comfort, or appearance. For example, ingrown toenails often result in pain while producing swelling and redness. When infected, ingrown toenails can bleed or create pus. Hammertoes may cause your foot to appear deformed as the affected big toe begins to hang down and resemble a hammerhead.

You need your feet for stability and walking. Therefore, if it becomes challenging to walk or stand for too long, you should see your local foot doctor to diagnose the underlying issue. If you're diabetic, you will have to visit your podiatrist more frequently than a typical patient. After all, diabetics need to be extremely cautious of foot injuries because the slightest cut could make them infected and potentially lead to infection. A podiatrist can inspect your feet for bruises and cuts that you may not feel due to diabetic neuropathy.

At Podiatry Associates Northwest, Dr. Lo and Dr. Yen work hard to ensure the health of your lower extremities. For a trustworthy and experienced podiatrist in Bellevue, Seattle, Issaquah, and Redmond, WA, call us at (206) 420-3119 today.