Stepping Up Your Foot Inspections
April is National Foot Health Awareness Month, and there is no better time to check in about foot inspections. Think about if you have an inspection schedule. What should prompt a call to the podiatrist? We hope you check your feet every day. The routine may be one of the best ways to catch conditions earlier. It also helps you to have confident conversations with your doctor.
Many people think foot inspections aren’t as valuable as other health check-ins. However, there are many benefits. Did you know that we can spot some conditions early based on symptoms from our feet? Think about diabetes or even heart disease.
The Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists help patients know what to spot while doing their foot inspections. Remember to inspect your toes, bottom of your feet, and sides of your feet.
Our doctors help patients also know which steps to follow next if they identify any concerns. Choosing the correct steps early on has many benefits.
Here are three ways to step up your foot inspections:
Know what to spot
Depending on the state of your health, there may be specific things that your doctor wants you to monitor. We encourage patients to always ring the alarm about changes to their feet.
- If you have moles, watch for color, size, or shape changes.
- If you have diabetes, monitor wounds for healing.
- Take note of changes in smell; there could be an infection.
Jot down observations
If you see something during your inspection, will you remember it during your next visit? One helpful tip is to take down notes. Bring your notes to your appointment. Use the tips mentioned above as guiding points for note-taking.
- Include dates and times of your observation.
- List any medications or activities that could influence your observations.
- If you observe symptoms of infection, there is no time to wait until your next appointment.
There is power in knowing the condition of your feet. We hope you’ll check in often and communicate with our team. Foot health is a part of your overall health. Prioritize it with your health care.
With locations in Tucson, Oro Valley, and Green Valley areas of Pima County, Arizona, we have vast experience treating issues of the ankles and feet. Our team includes Dr. Christopher M. Funk, Dr. Bradley A. Whitaker, Dr. Peter C. Merrill, and Dr. Zeno Pfau. Our doctors offer the greatest in technologically advanced methods and cutting-edge medical treatments. Please call 520-575-0800 and make an appointment.
