Can Obesity Worsen Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune condition that causes painful inflammation and swelling of the joints, often affects the feet and ankles, and can worsen due to obesity.
Podiatry as a Career
People who are interested in helping patients with abnormalities of the foot and ankle may want to pursue a career in podiatry. Doctors in this specialized field treat conditions that include hammertoe, bunions, and plantar fasciitis. Mandatory schooling consists of completing a four-year undergraduate degree pertaining to medicine. Afterwards, a course is started in podiatric college, which will take four years to complete. The qualified student achieves the title of Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, and then a residency that generally takes three years to complete can begin. Podiatrists have the choice to begin an independent practice, become part of a group practice, or may start a career working in hospitals. Research has indicated that podiatry is a fast growing field of medicine, and it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can help you to determine if this is a correct career choice for you.
If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact Dr. Martin Sloan from Lake Pointe Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.
What Do Podiatrists Do?
On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:
- Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
- Use innovative methods to treat conditions
- Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
- Correct walking patterns and balance
- Provide individual consultations to patients
It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Rockwall and Abilene, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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