FAQ's
Do I need a referral from my doctor to see a podiatrist?
No. You can contact a podiatrist office directly to make an appointment. Podiatrists are listed in the yellow pages telephone directories.
When should I see a podiatrist?
Any time you experience sore feet or pain, you should consider seeing a podiatrist. If you are a diabetic, you should see your podiatrist on a regular basis for check ups.
Are visits covered by insurance?
Many private insurance companies include podiatric services in their coverage. Please check with your indi-vidual insurance company to find out if you are covered.
What are orthotics?
Prescription orthotics are custom-made shoe inserts that are designed to correct an abnormal or irregular walking pattern and to restore proper foot function and balance. Orthotics control each phase of the walking cycle, from the moment your heel contacts the ground to when your toes push off the surface.
Orthotics can often enhance comfort and prevent additional problems from developing, such as corns and calluses. Podiatrists prescribe orthotics as a conservative approach to many foot problems.
Orthotics fall into three main categories:
1. rigid – used to control function; usually made of a firm material such as plastic or graphite
2. semi-rigid – provides dynamic balance of your foot while walking or participating in sports; helps guide your foot through proper functions, allowing muscles and tendons to perform more efficiently
3. soft – helps to absorb shock and take pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots of your feet.
How often should orthotics be replaced?
Orthotics should be replaced at least every two years.
Healthy feet are an important part of overall good health.
Orthotics can often enhance comfort and prevent additional problems from developing, such as corns and calluses. Podiatrists prescribe orthotics as a conservative approach to many foot problems.
Orthotics fall into three main categories:
1. rigid – used to control function; usually made of a firm material such as plastic or graphite
2. semi-rigid – provides dynamic balance of your foot while walking or participating in sports; helps guide your foot through proper functions, allowing muscles and tendons to perform more efficiently
3. soft – helps to absorb shock and take pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots of your feet.
How often should orthotics be replaced?
Orthotics should be replaced at least every two years.
Healthy feet are an important part of overall good health.
How to maintain healthy feet?
Regardless of the current condition of your feet, you can take actions to reach or maintain healthy feet for a lifetime.
Simple steps for taking good care of your feet include:
*** wash and inspect your feet every day *** choose a quality brand of footwear that fits well and feels comfortable ñ
*** wear footwear that is appropriate for the activity you are performing (such as hiking shoes for hik-ing; running shoes for running)
*** break new footwear in gradually; replace when the footwear loses its shock-absorbing ability
*** control your weight (less weight means less pressure on your feet and legs)
*** exercise daily to maintain circulation and muscle tone
*** avoid crossing your legs (crossing your legs increases pressure on the nerves and blood vessels)
*** see a podiatrist on a regular basis.
From your first baby steps you take and in all phases throughout your life, having healthy feet is important. You only have one pair of feet to last a lifetime so take good care of them!
Simple steps for taking good care of your feet include:
*** wash and inspect your feet every day *** choose a quality brand of footwear that fits well and feels comfortable ñ
*** wear footwear that is appropriate for the activity you are performing (such as hiking shoes for hik-ing; running shoes for running)
*** break new footwear in gradually; replace when the footwear loses its shock-absorbing ability
*** control your weight (less weight means less pressure on your feet and legs)
*** exercise daily to maintain circulation and muscle tone
*** avoid crossing your legs (crossing your legs increases pressure on the nerves and blood vessels)
*** see a podiatrist on a regular basis.
From your first baby steps you take and in all phases throughout your life, having healthy feet is important. You only have one pair of feet to last a lifetime so take good care of them!
