5 Ways to Prep for Your Podiatrist Appointment

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5 Ways to Prep for Your Podiatrist Appointment

At Texas Foot Specialists, our goal is to relieve foot pain and get you back to being able to participate fully in all your regular activities. One way that you as the patient can help facilitate this is by doing a little bit of preparation before your appointment. Below are 5 tips for ensuring a productive visit:

1.    Write it down: make a list of all the questions you have regarding your foot condition. This will ensure that you don’t forget anything once you are at the office.

2.    Review your symptoms: our foot and ankle surgeons, Dr. Gregory Mangum and Dr. Bruce Miller will want details about your symptoms to help with a diagnosis. Make note of the following: 

  • When did the foot pain first start?
  • Did it come on gradually or all of a sudden?
  • Is the pain constant or does it come and go?
  • What activities make the pain worse? Better?
  • Have you ever had a previous injury to the part of your foot or ankle that is currently causing you discomfort?

The foot doctor will use this information along with your medical history, physical exam and imaging or laboratory tests to get a comprehensive assessment of your foot problem.

3.    Do your homework: check with your insurance provider to see if you need a referral for your upcoming appointment. Bring a list of any medications and supplements you are currently taking, as well as any known medical conditions. Also, if you are experiencing difficulty walking, climbing stairs or have other physical needs, contact our Pasadena (281) 991-0600, Sugar Land (281) 242-4448 or Houston (713) 664-6677 office ahead of time to alert us so we can make your visit as comfortable as possible. 

4.    Phone a friend: if you have concerns about understanding or remembering everything the podiatrist will tell you, bring a relative or friend along to listen and help you.

5.    Don’t forget your shoes: yes, we know you’re not likely to come barefoot, but wearing a pair of shoes you use frequently or ones that you know make your foot pain worse can be helpful. The foot doctor may want to examine the wear pattern of your shoes to ascertain clues about the biomechanics of your feet and your gait.

Our priority is providing you with the best foot health care and a smooth office visit. If you have questions about an upcoming appointment, contact us—we’re here to help.