What to Expect at Your First Podiatrist Appointment

The first visit with a podiatrist is intimidating for many patients as they are unfamiliar with what to expect. However, by learning more about the process many podiatrists use during the first appointment, you can calm any nerves you have around your visit and go into the visit knowing what to expect. 

HOW THE FIRST PODIATRIST APPOINTMENT WORKS

Of course, each podiatrist is different, and the process each one uses may vary slightly, but there is a certain process most use to effectively and efficiently diagnose and start the treatment process on the first appointment. The following are five common steps podiatrists take on the first visit. 

DOCUMENT SYMPTOMS

The first thing many podiatrists do the first time they meet with the patient is to get to know them a little bit better. In the process, the podiatrist is also likely to want to know about the reason the patient is in for the visit, including the symptoms and issues he or she is having with his or her feet. The podiatrist will document the symptoms and use the information to better confirm the diagnosis. 

MEDICAL HISTORY

It is also important for the podiatrist to know about the medical history of the patient so that he or she can make sure not to try methods of treatment that were unsuccessful in the past and build off the previous diagnoses from other health professionals. To learn more about the patient and his or her medical history, the podiatrist is most likely going to ask a series of scripted questions about previous visits with other health professionals. 

PHYSICAL EXAMINATION

Perhaps one of the more important steps of the first visit with a podiatrist is the physical examination, during which the podiatrist will examine the feet of the patient, place pressure on certain points to determine the severity of the pain and other related tasks. By doing so, he or she can further determine what the exact issue is and how to best treat the patient moving forward. 

TREATMENT RECOMMENDATION

After considering the symptoms, medical history and information found during the physical examination, along with other tests and procedures the podiatrist may perform, he or she should be in a position to make a treatment recommendation based on the underlying cause of the symptoms. The podiatrist will likely discuss options with the patient and help him or her make an informed decision. 

PREVENTIVE TREATMENT

There is not always going to be a diagnosis, and there are times when the patient should focus on the prevention of future complications rather than treating a current complication. If this is the case, the podiatrist can work with the patient to determine a proper prevention plan, which may include lifestyle changes, dietary changes and exercise routines. 

TALK TO A PODIATRIST TO SCHEDULE YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT

If you struggle with foot complications or are at risk of developing complications in the future, then consult with us today and schedule a time to come in for an initial consultation to learn more about treatment options. 

Get more information about Leonard Greenwald, D.P.M. in San Jose at https://footdoctorinsanjose.com.

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