House Call: Foot Care, an Important Part of Our Daily Health
By: Jennifer Chow, DPM
It can be easy to take healthy feet for granted. Feet are the foundation of our body, and they are integral to our mobility. Most of all, they help us, and they enable us to help others. This is what inspired me to pursue podiatry as a specialty—a desire to help people help themselves.
I completed my medical school residency at a trauma 1 center and my fellowship at a wound care center. Both experiences provided me with the practice and skill set to care for a range of lower extremity conditions, including chronic wounds and fractures.
While some people are more prone to foot, ankle and leg problems—such as individuals living with diabetes—those with healthy feet or less chronic conditions should still pay attention to their foot health. If you work in a physically demanding job or are on your feet for a better part of the day, I encourage you to learn about ways to care for your feet. This includes everything from wearing proper shoes to daily stretching. Otherwise, you may be more likely to develop foot pain or misalignments, which can greatly impact comfort and abilities.
I often get asked: How do I know if I need foot care? Most of the people I see have been referred by their primary care doctor. However, if you’re experiencing pain in your foot, ankle or lower leg area, or have noticed any abnormalities, it may be time to make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Some foot conditions require surgery. It is perfectly normal to fear any kind of procedure. It’s my duty to help you get to the root of that fear, so you are as comfortable as possible with your treatment. When undergoing surgery, you should never feel alone—at Artesia General Hospital, Dr. Krupa and I are part of your team and with you every step of the way. We take time to understand your history, lifestyle, capabilities and circumstances to create a tailored plan that optimizes your treatment. We also practice open lines of communication to ensure you understand all aspects of your care and are confident moving forward.
Like many health-related conditions, timely foot care is important. It can prevent additional issues—including those that go beyond our feet—and get us back to being our best selves. If you or someone you know suffers from a foot condition, don’t wait to get help. Scheduling an appointment is the first step to happier, healthier feet.
Learn more about Podiatry Services at Artesia General Hospital.