When Should You See a Podiatrist? 3 Signs You Should Book an Appointment
- cmspodiatry
- Nov 8, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: 9 hours ago
(Updated 2026)
Many people are unsure whether their foot problem actually requires a visit to a podiatrist. It’s very common for people to wait weeks, months, or even years before seeking professional help.
As a podiatrist, I often hear patients begin their appointment by saying things like:
“I didn’t know if this was something you could help with,” or “I’ve had this issue for ages but didn’t know who to see.”
Podiatrists specialise in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the feet, ankles, and lower limbs. If something doesn’t feel quite right with your feet, it’s often worth getting it checked.
Here are three common reasons you may want to book an appointment with a podiatrist.
1. Ingrowing Toenails
If your toe is red, swollen, painful, or bleeding, it may be caused by an ingrowing toenail.
An ingrowing toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. This can cause irritation, inflammation, and sometimes infection.
Common symptoms include:
• Pain when touching the toe
• Redness and swelling around the nail
• Tenderness when wearing shoes
• Bleeding or discharge
Sometimes people are prescribed antibiotics when an infection develops. While antibiotics may temporarily treat the infection, they do not correct the underlying problem causing the nail to grow into the skin.
A podiatrist can assess the toenail and explain appropriate treatment options to help resolve the issue and prevent it from recurring.
2. Unusual Sensations in Your Feet
If you regularly experience tingling, numbness, burning, or “pins and needles” in your feet, it may be worth seeking professional advice.
These symptoms can sometimes be associated with peripheral neuropathy, a condition that affects nerve function and can reduce sensation in the feet.
Reduced sensation can make it harder to notice injuries or pressure areas, which is why it is important to investigate persistent symptoms.
During an appointment, a podiatrist can perform a sensation test to assess how well the nerves in your feet are functioning. They can then advise you on possible causes and whether further monitoring or treatment may be needed.
3. Pain While Running or Walking
Foot or ankle pain during running, exercise, or everyday walking should not be ignored.
Pain may be related to a number of factors, including:
• The way you walk or run (your gait)
• Poorly fitting footwear
• Structural differences in your feet
• Overuse or strain
A podiatrist can assess your foot mechanics and perform a gait analysis to see how your feet move when you walk or run.
This assessment can help identify the cause of your discomfort and guide recommendations for treatment, footwear changes, or exercises that may help reduce pain.
Getting Foot Problems Checked Early
Many foot conditions are easier to treat when they are identified early.
If something about your feet feels unusual - whether it is pain, swelling, skin changes, or nail problems - it is often worth seeking professional advice rather than waiting for it to resolve on its own.
A podiatrist can assess the issue, explain what may be causing it, and recommend appropriate treatment options to help keep your feet healthy and comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What problems do podiatrists treat?
Podiatrists treat a wide range of foot and lower limb problems including ingrown toenails, fungal infections, heel pain, foot injuries, and problems related to walking or posture.
Should I see a podiatrist for foot pain?
Yes. Persistent foot pain is a common reason to see a podiatrist. They can assess the cause of the pain and recommend treatment to improve comfort and mobility.
Can a podiatrist help with ingrown toenails?
Yes. Podiatrists regularly treat ingrown toenails and can provide treatment to relieve pain, treat infection, and prevent the nail from growing into the skin again.
Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?
In many cases you do not need a referral to see a podiatrist. Appointments can usually be booked directly.
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