The feet and ankles are used a great deal in our daily lives. Unfortunately, they can be susceptible to a variety of injuries and conditions that can lead to pain, weakness, and disability. Some ankle injuries, such as mild sprain, usually get better without medical intervention, but others may require further investigation and treatment in order to make a successful recovery.
If you are experiencing ongoing ankle problems, such as pain or reduced function, it may be time to seek care from an ankle specialist.
Why Consider An Ankle Specialist?
An ankle specialist is an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing disorders in the foot and ankle. They have a unique understanding of the structure and mechanics of the foot and ankle and the factors that can affect them, resulting in pain and disability. Ankle specialists treat the full spectrum of foot-ankle injuries and disorders, ranging from trauma and sports-related injuries to deformity and degenerative conditions such as arthritis.
Ankle specialists treat people of all ages and are fully up-to-date with a range of nonsurgical and surgical techniques to successfully eliminate pain and improve function. When necessary, they have the expertise and extensive surgical experience in the delicate procedures that are necessary to treat a foot or ankle condition effectively.
In many cases, ankle problems get better with self-care, but if you continue to experience symptoms, such as pain, weakness, or reduced function, it is worth discussing with a foot and ankle specialist.
What To Do When Looking For An Ankle Specialist
If you are considering an ankle specialist, here are some things you should think about doing when looking for the best podiatrist or ankle specialist for you:
- Seek recommendations from someone you trust, such as a friend, relative, neighbor, or work colleague. Your primary care physician or health provider may also be able to offer you guidance in finding an experienced ankle specialist who offers a high standard of care.
- Do your research. Use reputable websites, such as the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) website, which has access to a directory of certified foot and ankle doctors in your area. APMA is dedicated to promoting foot and ankle health and professional excellence, and all practicing APMA members are licensed by the state in which they practice podiatric medicine.
- If you plan to use insurance, check what is included in your plan and if your insurer has a preapproved list of ankle specialists. This can help to avoid any unexpected or hidden expenses. It’s also good to check that the ankle specialist accepts your insurance plan before you commit.
- Most podiatrists and ankle specialists have an online presence, so complete your online search by examining the websites of ankle specialists who are geographically accessible to you. Check that they use the most up-to-date and advanced podiatric techniques, diagnostic tools, and treatment equipment. Also, make sure they are a member of a practice that offers the services and expertise you are looking for, such as sports medicine, physical therapy, or custom orthotics.
- Do a quality check to see what other recently treated patients are saying about each ankle specialist and restrict your search to podiatry practices that have positive patient reviews. Patient testimonials can be helpful ways to assess a practice’s standard of care. These can be located in a variety of places, such as business directories, the practice website, through Google, and on social media networks, such as Facebook. If you are planning to use your insurance, your insurer may also be able to provide information about the quality ratings of a specific provider in your network.
- Always verify that an ankle specialist is board-certified, affiliated with reputable local hospitals, and has the necessary accreditations and experience to provide you with high-quality care.
- Once you have found an appropriate ankle specialist, arrange an initial consultation with them to discuss your health issue. If you don’t feel comfortable with them or feel they haven’t addressed your issues effectively, don’t hesitate to continue on your search for a better provider.
Experienced Ankle Specialist in San Antonio, TX
If you are looking for expert, comprehensive foot and ankle care, visit The Podiatry Group of South Texas. Our multidisciplinary podiatrists have a wealth of experience and provide high-quality foot and ankle care in a number of convenient locations. Many of our specialists work with local emergency rooms and hospitals, caring for patients of all ages in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
We specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of all types of injuries and conditions affecting the feet and ankles, and offer a range of services and in-office treatments, including trauma care, diabetes-related foot care, shockwave therapy, laser nail treatments, reconstructive foot surgery, sports medicine, pediatric podiatry, and customized orthotics.
To learn more or to book a consultation, call us today at the location nearest to you or use our online appointment request form.
