How can a Podiatrist help me?

Podiatrists are specially trained physicians whose clinical and surgical training allow them to diagnose and treat problems with the foot and ankle, specially tailored to the specific needs of each patient. Given their expertise, a Podiatric physician can address your injury—from minor to severe—and help find a treatment option to help you heal.

When should I contact a Podiatrist?

When you experience pain or discomfort in a foot or ankle, it is recommended that you make an appointment with a Podiatric physician as soon as possible. Some issues can be resolved quickly, while others may take longer, but as with other health issues, the sooner, the better. Prevention is also imperative to your foot or ankle health.

Disorders of the Foot and Ankle include:

What should I expect at my first Podiatry appointment?

During a visit with a podiatrist, you will be asked about your medical history and your present health. Your podiatrist will then examine you to determine the nature of your issue. After your ailment has been diagnosed, your physician will prescribe the proper treatment and care.

For patients with chronic, non-healing wounds, the physician will decide if it is necessary to refer further care to one of our Wound Healing Centers, who specialize in healing these types of ailments.

For patients with rehabilitation needs, the provider will decide if it is necessary to refer to CHI Saint Joseph Health – Outpatient Rehabilitation.

Common Podiatric diagnostic procedures include:

• Computed Tomography (CT)
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Ultrasound
• X-Rays

How can I protect my feet from injury?

While there’s no guaranteed way to completely protect your feet or ankles, there are steps you can take to have healthy feet habits.

• Wear shoes that fit—if you’re unsure of your actual size or just want to be sure, have a shoe specialist measure your feet.
• Also important for proper fit are pantyhose or stockings—these should be of the correct size and free of seams for optimal comfort and health.
• Wear shoes with a firm sole and soft upper-area for every day activities.
• Shop for shoes in the afternoon; feet tend to swell during the day.
• Walking is the best exercise for your feet.
• Use over-the-counter foot products only with the advice of a podiatrist—but never cut corns and calluses with a razor, pocket knife or other such instrument.
• Bathe your feet daily in lukewarm (not hot) water, using a mild soap, and moisturize dry feet following the bath.
• Keep an eye on your foot and ankle health daily—if you notice any redness, swelling, cracks in the skin or sores, consult your podiatrist.

Attending Faculty

118 Patriot Drive, Suite 106
Bardstown, KY 40004
502.349.5995
Fax: 502.349.5997

CHI Saint Joseph Health
Orthopedics
160 London Mountain View Drive
London, KY 40741

CHI Saint Joseph Health
850 Riverview Avenue
Pineville, Ky 40977