Foot and ankle pain and its accompanying dysfunction is abnormal, and you should seek treatment as soon as possible. But, who is the right foot and ankle doctor for you? Much depends on what is wrong with your lower extremity and what skills your doctor needs to repair it. So, let’s look at what a foot and ankle pain doctor in Plantation, Florida, can provide and how they can help you.
What Can Go Wrong With My Feet And Ankles?
Regardless of whether you’re a sports enthusiast or an adult of any age and occupation, you depend on healthy feet and ankles for movement, support of your body weight, and your day-to-day functioning. Suffer with arthritis, a congenital or acquired deformity/condition, or acute or repetitive injury, and you have the recipe for pain, dysfunction, and poor quality of life.
Examples of foot and ankle conditions that require attention from a highly trained health care provider are:
- Foot and ankle arthritis
- Ankle and foot sprains
- Fractures
- Heel pain
- Achilles tendon tears
- Lacerations
- Skin and nail problems
- Diabetic deformities, wounds, and neuropathy (nerve pain and loss of sensation)
- Crush injuries
- Gait problems (how you place your feet as you walk or run)
Both orthopedic doctors and podiatrists (foot and ankle specialists) possess a full range of skills and treatment options to help you treat your foot or ankle problem. Who you choose is up to you, but at Baylis & Brown Orthopedics, we ask you to consider the following factors when making your decision.
Choosing The Right Foot And Ankle Pain Doctor
Examine Credentials And Experience
An orthopedic specialist has both undergraduate and medical school training in addition to four to five years in specialized hospital training healing the body’s major joints. They know how the neck, back, shoulders, hands, feet, knees, and hips should function and what diseases, injuries, and deformities they fall prey to. Orthopedic doctors may be qualified to perform surgery, and they possess skill in non-invasive treatments, as well, such as physical therapy, casting, medications, and more.
A podiatrist also has this education but specializes in the care of the foot and ankle. Podiatrists are experts in many conservative treatment options, such as casting, custom orthotics, gait re-training, and more. They also focus on the soft tissues of the lower extremities, as well as vascular and nerve function. A podiatrist also provides diabetic foot care–both preventive and wound treatments. If you have a foot or ankle problem, both podiatrists and orthopedic specialists can help you.
Look for Excellent Diagnostics and On-site Treatment Options
The latest in X-ray, ultrasound, MRI, and CT scan imaging helps your physician accurately diagnose your condition and formulate a treatment plan suited to your needs–including pain relief. Ask your prospective foot and ankle doctor about imaging capability on-premises, and also inquire if they offer innovative injection therapies, orthotics, durable medical equipment, sports medicine, and more. Be specific regarding your symptoms and your health goals, and ask if the provider has experience in them.
A Caring Attitude And Good Listening Skills Are Vital
Advanced medical training is so important, but without a patient-centered practice philosophy, your orthopedic doctor or podiatrist cannot truly help you. So, when considering a doctor, look for a warm, receptive demeanor, good listening skills, a no-rush appointment, and ample information on your condition. These qualities are priceless and will ensure your treatment is effective and goes smoothly.
Find Out More About Baylis & Brown Orthopedics
In the Plantation, Florida, area, Dr. Robert Baylis and Dr. Christopher Brown provide superb orthopedic care to a variety of patients. You can have your foot and ankle pain properly assessed and treated. Plus, you will feel respected and cared for along the way.
To learn more about us and our services, contact us at (954) 476-8800, or use our online appointment request form.
