Put Your Best Foot Forward: Expert Advice for Foot Health 

Our feet literally carry us through life from morning jogs, evening strolls, and everything in between. They support us every step of the way, yet we often overlook them. Strong, healthy feet are the foundation of overall well-being, so why not give them the care they deserve? Take steps toward better foot health with this article on how to give your feet the care and attention they deserve. 

How Important Are Your Feet? 

Foot health is essential to overall health and quality of life. The feet contain 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. All of these components work together to allow the foot to move, absorb shock, and support the weight of the body. Despite their significance, feet often endure a great deal of strain due to daily activities, ill-fitting shoes, and neglect. 

“It’s important to stay active for our health, and when our feet hurt, we’re less likely to stay active. When we have foot pain, we are more inclined to avoid walking, running, and other activities that can benefit our health,” explained Tiffany Hauptman, DPM, Henry County Health Center – Orthopedics. “It’s so easy to forget about our feet, but they are very important and it’s crucial to take care of them.” 

Common Foot Problems 

Common foot problems such as ingrown toenails, bunions, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, and flat feet can lead to pain, discomfort, and impaired mobility. As a Podiatrist, Dr. Hauptman sees foot conditions that change with the seasons and has some advice to help keep feet healthy.  

In addition, conditions such as diabetes can have a severe impact on foot health, as nerve damage and poor circulation may result in complications that can lead to infections or even amputations. 

“I see patients with diabetic foot problems throughout the year. Diabetes can affect the feet in many ways, so it’s important for people with diabetes to monitor their feet very carefully,” explained Dr. Hauptman. “If you have diabetes, make sure to see a medical professional on a regular basis so they can help monitor your feet and hopefully avoid many of the problems that can occur.” 

Regular attention to foot health can help prevent many issues. Proper footwear, exercises to strengthen foot muscles, and managing pre-existing conditions are all essential to maintaining healthy feet. 

What can you do on a daily basis to promote foot health? Dr. Hauptman recommends the following tips.

The Importance of Foot and Ankle Specialists 

Podiatry and orthopedic foot professionals play a crucial role in maintaining foot and ankle health, addressing a wide range of conditions from chronic pain to traumatic injuries. Their expertise in diagnosing and treating disorders specific to the feet and lower extremities helps prevent further complications, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life. Whether through non-surgical treatments or surgical interventions, these specialists ensure that patients receive the most appropriate care, enabling them to lead active and pain-free lives. 

Podiatrists: Specialists in Foot and Ankle Health 

A podiatrist is a medical professional who specializes in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of foot and ankle disorders. Podiatrists undergo extensive training in podiatric medicine, typically earning a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree. They are equipped with the skills to treat a wide range of conditions, including: 

• Foot deformities: Bunions, hammertoes, and claw toes. 

• Skin conditions: Plantar warts, fungal infections, and corns. 

• Pain: Heel pain (often from conditions like plantar fasciitis), arch pain, and pain related to overuse. 

• Sports injuries: Sprains, strains, and stress fractures. 

• Diabetic foot care: Podiatrists play a crucial role in managing diabetic foot conditions by monitoring for infections, ulcers, and circulation problems. 

• Nail problems: Ingrown toenails, fungal nails, and nail trauma. 

• Arthritis: Managing joint pain and inflammation in the foot and ankle. 

Podiatrists use a combination of physical examinations, medical imaging, and patient history to diagnose foot problems. In many cases, they can provide non-surgical treatments, such as: 

• Custom orthotics: Tailored shoe inserts that correct misalignments and provide support. 

• Physical therapy: Exercises that improve strength, flexibility, and posture to reduce foot pain. 

• Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, topical treatments, and corticosteroid injections to relieve pain and inflammation. 

• Nail and skin care: Treatment of warts, fungal infections, and ingrown toenails. 

In certain cases where non-surgical treatments are ineffective, podiatrists can perform surgeries to correct deformities or relieve pain.  

Orthopedic Surgeons: Specialists in Bone and Joint Health 

An orthopedic surgeon is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, including bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. While orthopedic surgeons treat a wide range of conditions affecting the entire body, some specialize in foot and ankle surgery. These specialists focus on the treatment of more complex foot and ankle conditions, often involving bone and joint problems. 

Joseph Tansey, MD, is an orthopedic surgeon at Henry County Health Center with specialized training through a foot and ankle fellowship. This training enables him to accept and treat more complex foot and ankle traumatic injuries and chronic conditions that require advanced expertise. These include issues not typically covered in general orthopedic training.  

Dr. Tansey pursued a foot and ankle fellowship because he desired to be well trained in chronic foot and ankle conditions. “While many orthopedic surgeons can treat foot and ankle fractures and trauma, they may avoid more complex cases. What sets me apart is my focus on treating those more complicated, traumatic injuries. I also specialize in diagnosing and correcting mechanical issues in the foot and ankle—whether traumatic or chronic—using a personalized combination of medication, bracing, therapy, injections, or surgery.” 

Some common conditions treated by orthopedic surgeons specializing in foot and ankle care include: 

• Fractures and dislocations: Broken bones or dislocated joints in the foot or ankle, often caused by trauma or injury. 

• Arthritis: Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the joints in the foot and ankle, leading to pain and stiffness.  

• Deformities: Severe deformities such as flat feet, high arches, or congenital conditions like clubfoot. 

• Tendon and ligament injuries: Tears or ruptures of tendons, such as the Achilles tendon, which may require surgical repair. 

• Foot and ankle reconstruction: In cases of severe injury or deformity, orthopedic surgeons may perform complex surgeries to rebuild and restore foot function. 

Orthopedic surgeons use a range of diagnostic techniques to evaluate the extent of damage to bones, joints, and soft tissues. Once a diagnosis is made, they may recommend treatment options ranging from conservative measures like physical therapy, medications, or injections, to surgical interventions when necessary. 

How Podiatrists and Orthopedic Surgeons Collaborate 

While podiatrists and orthopedic surgeons each have their area of expertise, they often work together to provide comprehensive care for patients with foot and ankle problems. In some cases, podiatrists and orthopedic surgeons will consult with one another to ensure the best course of treatment for the patient. 

“There is considerable overlap between the services provided by podiatry and orthopedics in terms of non-operative foot care, and there are definitely instances where we collaborate. I believe podiatry is an invaluable resource for the community. There are instances where patients, after seeing their primary care provider or a podiatrist, may need to explore alternative treatments or consider surgical intervention. In such cases, seeking a second opinion from me can be beneficial,” explained Dr. Tansey. 

Both specialists aim to restore and maintain the patient’s mobility and quality of life. Whether through non-surgical interventions or surgical procedures, the goal is always to address foot issues in a manner that minimizes pain and maximizes function. 

Preventing Foot Problems 

Maintaining good foot health is not only about seeking medical help when problems arise but also about prevention. Both podiatrists and orthopedic surgeons emphasize the importance of proactive care to keep feet healthy: 

• Wear properly fitting shoes: Ill-fitting shoes can lead to blisters, calluses, bunions, and other foot deformities. 

• Stay active: Regular exercise, including activities that strengthen the muscles and tendons in the feet, can help maintain mobility and flexibility. 

• Foot hygiene: Keeping the feet clean, dry, and moisturized can help prevent fungal infections, athlete’s foot, and other skin problems. 

• Monitor foot conditions: Regularly inspect your feet for changes, such as sores, swelling, or abnormal growths, and seek medical advice early if you notice anything unusual. 

The most important thing to know is that foot pain is not normal. “Pain is probably the biggest warning sign to look for,” stated Dr. Hauptman. “Anytime someone has foot pain they should have it checked out to see if there’s something that can be done.” 

Dr. Tansey advises seeing your primary care provider (PCP) if you're unsure about foot pain treatment. "Everyone should have a primary care provider. They can guide you on whether to see a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist. If you don’t have a PCP, either specialist can help. If a podiatrist determines your condition falls outside of their expertise, they may refer you to an orthopedic surgeon. We maintain a strong collaborative relationship with podiatry to ensure the best care.” 

Foot Pain? Walk This Way! 

Foot health is an integral aspect of overall well-being. Podiatrists and orthopedic surgeons specializing in foot and ankle health play essential roles in diagnosing, treating, and preventing foot-related conditions. Whether managing chronic pain, recovering from surgery, or preventing future issues, both specialists work to ensure that patients maintain healthy, functional feet, supporting their mobility and quality of life for years to come. 

Podiatrists and orthopedic surgeons typically do not require a referral for an appointment. However, your insurance plan may have specific requirements, so it's best to check your coverage details before scheduling an appointment. 

Orthopedics and Podiatry services are available at the following Great River Health locations:  

Keokuk Clinic (orthopedics offered) 
3285 Main St. 
Keokuk, IA 52632 
319-524-6274 

Henry County Health Center Orthopedic Clinic 
407 S. White St. 
Suite 101 
Mount Pleasant, IA 52641 
319-385-5374 

Orthopedics-Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center, Fort Madison 
5409 Avenue O 
Suite 113 
Fort Madison, IA 52627 
319-376-1135 

Orthopedics – Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center, West Burlington 
1401 W. Agency Rd. 
Wellness Plaza, Suite 101 
West Burlington, IA 52655 
319-768-4970 

Podiatry-Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center 
5409 Avenue O 
Main Clinic  
Fort Madison, IA 52627 
319-376-2134