How to Get Maximum Benefit from Your Podiatrist Appointment

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Has this ever happened to you? You go to a doctor’s appointment and after you get home you think, “I forgot to ask about…” At NY Foot Health we believe regular podiatrist appointments are part of a good health care regimen and we want patients to get the maximum benefit from their podiatric healthcare provider. (Don’t have a podiatrist? We can you help you find one through our online directory.) Below are some tips to help you make the most of your visit:

Before your appointment:

  • Write down any lower extremity issues that you are having and also any questions you want to ask the podiatrist and bring this list with you to your appointment.
  • Check with your insurance company to see if a referral is needed for your appointment and be sure to bring your insurance card with you.
  • If your foot problem is exercise related, bring your workout shoes with you to the appointment. Otherwise, wear a pair of shoes that you use frequently. They can provide clues about your feet to the podiatrist.
  • Bring a list of all medications and supplements that you are currently taking.

During your visit:

  • Go over the list you brought of symptoms and questions.
  • Alert the podiatrist to any changes you’ve noticed in your feet or ankles.
  • Tell the foot doctor if you are being treated by any other physicians.
  • If the podiatrist diagnoses a foot disorder, make sure that you understand the problem and prescribed treatment. Ask questions about anything that is unclear.
  • Ask what follow up is needed after your appointment and when the podiatrist will want to see you again.

 After your appointment:

  • If a follow-up visit is necessary, make the appointment before you leave the office.
  • Make appointments to get any tests that the foot doctor ordered promptly.
  • Call the podiatrist’s office one week after a test if you have not heard the results.
  • Complete the full course of physical therapy, medication or other treatment that the foot doctor prescribes unless you are having an adverse reaction, in which case you should call the office.
  • If you are still experiencing foot pain or discomfort after treatment is complete, contact the podiatrist.

To learn more about foot disorders, contact us and subscribe to our free e-newsletter.

Proper Foot Care, Podiatric MedicineNYSPMApodiatrist