Procrastination is tough. Normally you end up procrastinating when you’re faced with a task you don’t want to do. You aren’t sure how to begin, or you simply don’t enjoy it. Sometimes you may not be sure you even need to do whatever it is you’re putting off. When it comes to seeing a podiatrist, however, too many people put it off when they actually should be seen—and allow small problems to get worse. Typically there are some tell-tale signs that indicate you shouldn’t put off a visit to a foot expert like our Martin Foot and Ankle doctors.

Feet are meant to support you for your entire life. They hold you up when you walk, absorb impacts when you run and jump, and make your mobility possible. They are designed to function without pain. Foot pain is a sign that something has gone wrong and needs to be investigated.

Of course, some problems will heal on their own and go away with proper home care. Taking a break from whatever causes your pain, resting your foot, icing painful areas, and wearing appropriate footwear can make a significant difference for your comfort and foot function. This isn’t enough for every condition, however. Some need accurate diagnoses and intentional treatment from a foot expert.

Here are a few signs you should go to a podiatrist:

  • Discolored nails – Discolored, distorted nails could be an injury or a hard-to-eliminate infection.
  • Discolored skin – Skin changes color for a number of reasons, including serious problems with blood flow.
  • Pain that won’t go away – If pain doesn’t decrease over time, then the problem causing it is not healing and needs to be addressed. This is especially important for intense pain.
  • Problems that get worse with activity – If normal activities make your feet uncomfortable, you need to have your limbs checked out.
  • Visible changes or deformities – Any lumps, bumps, growing moles, or unusual deformities are not normal and should be examined.

These all could potentially be signs that something serious is happening in your feet. Taking care of problems right away by going to a podiatrist, however, can help address them before they get out of control. The sooner they are dealt with, the easier they are to manage. If you’re experiencing anything that really should be checked, contact us. You can reach Martin Foot and Ankle’s Hanover, Lancaster, Lititz and York offices online or by calling (717) 757-3537.