Podiatry

Podiatry is a branch of medicine devoted to diagnosing, treating, and studying disorders related to the foot, ankle, and lower extremity.

Podiatry encompasses everything from minor problems such as corns and calluses to severe conditions like ankle injuries and food deformities. Podiatry revolves around a deep comprehension of the structure, function, and well-being of our feet. Our feet are very complex, comprising 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 tendons, muscles, and ligaments. These elements play a vital role in our mobility, balance, and overall health. Therefore, podiatry, hence, focus

Podiatry Specialists

Podiatrists are medical specialists who specialize in the medicine and surgery of the feet, ankles, and lower legs. You might see them referred to as podiatric physicians, podiatric surgeons, or podiatric foot and ankle surgeons. They can perform surgery, reset broken bones, prescribe medications, and order lab tests or x-rays for their patients. Podiatrist will work with your entire healthcare team to make sure you are getting the best care for your feet, ankles, and lower legs.

Treatments provided by podiatrists range from:

• Treatment of ingrown toenails
• Preventative diabetic foot care
• Surgeries to improve chronic conditions such as bunions or foot pain
• Sports Injuries of the foot, ankle and lower leg

When should I see a Podiatrist?

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms in your foot or ankle, it is advisable to visit your primary care provider or a podiatrist:

• Pain
• Discoloration or redness
• Swelling
• A sensation of heat or warmth
• New growths or bumps (on or under your skin)

Although many common foot issues are not life-threatening, it's recommended to consult a podiatrist before attempting any home treatments. Trying to self-diagnose or using over-the-counter treatments without professional advice may escalate a minor issue into a more serious one.

Podiatry in Harlan

Hannah Johnk, DPM, FACFAS, Myrtue Medical Center's very own Podiatrist, provides podiatry care at Myrtue's Harlan Rural Health Clinic. Dr. Johnk see patients and performs surgeries here in Harlan on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays from 8:30 AM to 4 PM.

Dr. Johnk sees patients for a wide range of issue, some of which include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Heel pain
• Sports injuries
• Fractures and sprains
• Arthritis
• Diabetic foot care
• Ulcers
• Skin rashes and infections
• Ingrown toenails

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Johnk, call us at 712.755.4516.