Routine Foot Exams: Key to Healthy Feet | Foot & Ankle Centers

Our feet are the foundation of every step we take, yet they often go unnoticed until pain or problems arise. Regular foot exams are essential for maintaining overall foot health, preventing complications, and ensuring mobility and comfort. This guide explains why routine foot check-ups matter, what to expect during an appointment, and how proactive care protects your wellbeing.

Why Routine Foot Exams Are Essential

Your feet carry your weight and support your movement, making their health vital to your quality of life. Routine foot exams help by:

• Early Problem Detection: Conditions like bunions, hammertoes, and plantar fasciitis can develop slowly and painlessly. Exams catch these early so they can be treated before they worsen.

• Managing Diabetes Risks: Diabetes can cause nerve damage and reduce foot sensation, increasing the risk of injury and infection. Regular exams help monitor and prevent serious complications.

• Circulation Checks: Poor blood flow to the feet can cause numbness, coldness, and ulcers. Exams evaluate circulation to prevent these issues.

• Spotting Infections and Skin Conditions: Athlete’s foot, toenail fungus, and dry cracked skin often start unnoticed. Early detection keeps these under control.

Drs. Tavakoli, Knapp, and Treleven at Foot & Ankle Centers bring extensive experience and personalized care to each patient, ensuring that your foot health is managed with precision and compassion at any of our three convenient NorthTexas locations in Frisco, McKinney, and Little Elm. 

What Happens During Your Foot Exam?

Knowing what to expect can ease concerns and encourage timely visits. Here's what you can expect during a consultation with one of our podiatrists at Foot & Ankle Centers:

• Visual Inspection: Your feet are checked for skin changes, nail health, swelling, and structural abnormalities.

• Physical Assessment: Doctors test movement, flexibility, sensitivity, and look for pain points.

• Circulation Evaluation: Pulses in the feet and ankles are felt; if needed, more advanced blood flow tests are performed.

• Health History Review: Discussing your lifestyle, prior foot problems, and any health conditions helps tailor your care.

Common Foot Conditions Addressed During Exams

Regular exams identify and manage several frequent foot issues, such as:

• Plantar Fasciitis: Heel pain caused by inflammation of the tissue under your foot.

• Athlete’s Foot: A fungal infection causing itching, redness, and peeling skin.

• Bunions: Painful bony bumps on the big toe joint.

• Ingrown Toenails: Toenails growing into the skin causing pain and swelling.

• Corns and Calluses: Thickened skin due to pressure or friction.

With offices location in Frisco, Little Elm, and McKinney we, at Foot & Ankle Centers have got you covered!

How Often Should You Schedule a Foot Exam?

• People with Diabetes: At least once a year, often more depending on your health.

• Adults Over 65: Annual exams are recommended, especially if mobility is affected.

• Anyone Experiencing Symptoms: Foot pain, swelling, numbness, or skin changes require immediate evaluation.

Benefits Beyond Your Feet

Routine foot care benefits overall health by:

• Improving mobility and enabling an active lifestyle.

• Preventing complications linked to immobility such as obesity or heart issues.

• Enhancing balance and coordination to reduce fall risk.

Dr. Tavakoli, Dr. Knapp, and Dr. Treleven specialize in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle conditions that affect mobility and health, offering personalized care to restore function, relieve discomfort, and keep you confidently on your feet.

Support your foot health with these daily habits:

• Wear Proper Footwear: Choose shoes that fit well, support your feet, and allow toe movement. Avoid tight or high-heeled shoes.

• Maintain a Balanced Diet: Healthy nutrition supports circulation and tissue repair.

• Keep Feet Clean and Dry: Wash daily and dry well, especially between toes, to prevent infections.

• Do Foot Exercises: Stretching and strengthening help maintain flexibility and prevent injuries.

• Stay Hydrated: Well-hydrated skin is less prone to cracking and irritation.

Final Thoughts: Your Feet Deserve Attention

Don’t wait for discomfort or injury to take care of your feet.
Regular foot exams can catch problems early, prevent serious complications, and keep you comfortably mobile. Taking care of your feet today helps ensure they carry you through all your tomorrows. Schedule your foot exam with Dr. Tavakoli, Dr. Knapp, or Dr. Treleven at one of our convenient locations in Frisco, Little Elm, or McKinney.