Staying Open-Minded About Your Healthcare

When I was first diagnosed with breast cancer, I didn't know what I was going to do. After the devastation subsided, I decided to take a very standard, western approach to my healing. Although initial efforts were successful, my cancer recurred a few months later. I endured many additional months of treatment before I started focusing on myself. I decided it was time to incorporate complimentary alternative treatments into my healing regimen, including massage therapy. I can't even begin to tell you how much it changed my life. My healing became a process, instead of something I simply had to endure. I hope that the articles on my website can inspire you to stay open-minded about your own healthcare.

Staying Up On Healthy Feet - Signs You May Need To See A Podiatrist

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The pressure to exercise, eat right, and make positive lifestyle choices has led to more and more people actively working to improve their medical situation. Not all common ailments, however, have received the same attention, however.

Your feet are often said to be the mirror of your overall health, yet they are often times neglected. Many people feel that foot issues can be handled at home, and in doing so, often miss out on valuable care that could greatly improve their quality of life. Below, you'll find a guide to some signs that a trip to the podiatrist may be the right choice for you:

Pain

As with many other medical conditions, persistent or strong pain is a good indication that you should seek the advice of a doctor. Whether you can point to a specific injury or are just facing general soreness, an examination is an important first step in preventing serious problems from spreading.

Arthritis, misalignment of your spine, and expanding ligament tears are all serious medical conditions that can be checked by dealing with foot pain early. These ailments often don't show more serious warning signs until it's too late to keep them in check, so you should do your best to be proactive.

Swelling

Many people believe that their feet and ankles swell and shrink on a daily basis. Others believe that swelling is merely a sign of their hydration level. While this may be true, swelling is often times also a sign of more serious injuries that require direct medical treatment.

In the most serious cases, swelling in your feet and ankles can be a sign of underlying cardiac or pulmonary issues. Your podiatrist will be able to quickly determine whether a swollen foot may require a trip to have your heart or lungs checked on, potentially saving you from a life threatening crisis.

Discoloration

As we age, we begin to accept certain changes in our bodies. Discoloration in the toenails or the bottom of the foot are often accepted as necessary consequences. However, in some cases, these can be signs of more serious problems. As with swelling, discoloration may be a sign of underlying circulatory issues. Discolored nails and weathered skin can also be a sign of fungus or bacteria that could spread and cause serious infections. Seeking immediate treatment will guarantee that you can avoid a potential serious issue.

To learn more, contact a company like Advanced Foot & Ankle Center of Palatine with any questions you have.

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15 January 2015