Taking care of your feet is just as important as the rest of your body and sometimes giving them the best care possible means taking a trip to your Podiatrist. If you are heading to the Podiatrist for the first time, or if you are a regular patient this list of dos and don’ts is a great one to review.
Do: Come prepared with questions. Sometimes when you get into the doctor’s office you forget some of the things that have been happening and bothering you with your feet. Have a notepad and pen handy to jot things down when you recognize where the pain is in your foot or if you think of questions throughout the day. This way you won’t be going home with unanswered questions.
Do: Do listen to what your doctor has to say. We live in a world where information is constantly at our fingertips. You can think you know it all and have a diagnosis before you ever get to the doctor. Let your doctor do his/her job and don’t tell them what you think you have because you read it on the internet. Trust your doctor and they will be able to help you have the best care possible.
Do: Have a positive attitude! Even if the only option to help rid you of your foot problem is surgery, look at all the positives that can come from it. Your podiatrist wants to help you and if you are negative about everything, it won’t make the pain go away and can increase your anxiety and stress. Remember to relax and think positive.
Don’t: Don’t wear a short skirt. Dress appropriately for wherever you are going and when going to the podiatrist, short skirts aren’t the best idea. Stick with pants, and longer shorts or dresses.
Don’t: As badly as you want your feet to look nice and pretty, resist the urge and don’t paint your nails. It is important for your podiatrist to see your nails which can help determine if you have any nail fungus or other problems.
Don’t: Don’t get a pedicure before your visit. Podiatrists see plenty of unhealthy feet, so don’t be concerned that your feet aren’t in pristine condition; that’s why you’re going to see them in the first place! Also, pedicure salons aren’t the most sanitary places and can actually be filled with bacteria if you haven’t done your research about where you are going.
Remember to stop by our office at Southern Oregon Foot & Ankle, LLC, where we are here to help you. Dr. Evan Merrill has years of experience and wants to give you the best care possible. If you are in need of an appointment call us at (541) 776-3338 or make an appointment online.