Henry Community Health is excited to announce the addition of podiatry and foot & ankle surgery into the mix with all our other services and specialties. Now you may be asking… What is podiatry? Or when do I know if I need foot and ankle surgery? Henry Community Health is here to help! 

Podiatry is a medical specialty that focuses on the lower legs, down to the ankles and feet. Podiatry covers the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of conditions that can affect those areas of the body. 

What Does a Podiatrist Do?

A podiatrist specializes in podiatry, so they have completed education and training focused specifically on feet, ankles, and the lower extremities. They are able to treat conditions that are as minor as a bunion or as major as a physical deformity. Here at HCH, we are excited to welcome Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, Wil Adams, and his Nurse Practitioner, Kelly Peasley to our Henry County Center for Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine practice. Together, they bring 5+ years of experience in foot and ankle issues. They offer treatment options that can range from more conservative therapies to more invasive foot/ankle reconstruction surgery. 

What Conditions Does a Podiatrist Treat?

A variety of afflictions can impact the areas of the body covered by podiatry. That means a podiatrist can help you navigate conditions that include: 

  • Athlete’s foot
  • Corns and calluses
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Arthritis 
  • Heel spurs
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Flat feet
  • Bunions 
  • Diabetic foot problems
  • Ankle Replacement Surgery
  • Ankle Reconstruction Surgery
  • And more

What Are Some Common Podiatry Treatments? 

Every patient will have a unique experience with their podiatrist, but there are some common treatments that are often recommended. These treatments include: 

  • Footwear guidance
  • Splints
  • Braces
  • Wound care
  • Physical therapy
  • Orthotics 
  • Biomechanical analysis
  • Surgery 
  • Corticosteroid injections
  • And more

When Should I See a Podiatrist?

As with any medical concern, it’s sometimes hard to figure out when to request a referral for a specialist like a podiatrist. Here are some key points to consider:

  • Are you struggling with your gait, perhaps limping as you walk? 
  • Are you experiencing swelling or inflammation that is chronic or came on suddenly? 
  • Have you been diagnosed with diabetes? 
  • Do you have a recent injury that is painful? 
  • Do you have an old injury that is causing new or chronic pain? 
  • Do you have unexplained chronic pain in your lower legs, ankles, or feet?
  • Are you experiencing foot discharge or an abnormal odor? 
  • Have you noticed deformities that have changed the shape or function of your lower legs, ankles, or feet? 
  • Have over-the-counter or at-home remedies failed to produce results or become ineffective with time? 

If you answered yes to any of these questions, or even hesitated on one of these questions, it may be time to consider asking your primary care physician for a referral or additional advice. 

Podiatry Services at Henry Community Health

Henry Community Health boasts a wide range of healthcare services, including treatment for feet and ankle conditions. 

We want to help you get started. You can:

Sep 18, 2024