Compare 85 podiatrists in Sparta, NC. Check ratings, insurance, and availability.
A first visit lasts 30 to 45 minutes. The podiatrist will ask about your symptoms, medical history, footwear, and activity level. They will examine your feet, check sensation and circulation (especially important for diabetic patients), and may order X-rays (often available in the office). Treatment options range from conservative measures (orthotics, stretching, injections, padding) to surgical correction depending on the condition. Many podiatrists perform minor procedures (ingrown toenail removal, wart treatment) at the first visit.
See a podiatrist for persistent heel pain, bunion pain that limits shoe choices or activity, diabetic foot problems (numbness, ulcers, infections), ingrown toenails that keep recurring, foot or ankle fractures, plantar warts that do not respond to home treatment, flat feet causing pain, sports injuries to the foot or ankle, or any foot condition that affects your ability to walk or exercise. If you have diabetes, schedule an annual foot exam even if you have no current symptoms.
Office visit copay: $30-60 · Ingrown toenail procedure: $200-500 · Custom orthotics: $300-800 · Bunion surgery: $3,000-7,000 · Diabetic foot exam: covered under preventive
Heel pain that is worst with your first steps in the morning is usually plantar fasciitis. Podiatrists treat it with stretching protocols, orthotics, injections, and, in stubborn cases, minimally invasive procedures.
A bunion is a bony bump at the base of the big toe that progressively worsens. Podiatrists manage bunions with shoe modifications and orthotics, or perform corrective surgery when conservative options are not enough.
Diabetes puts your feet at risk for nerve damage, poor circulation, and slow-healing wounds. Regular podiatric exams catch problems early and prevent complications that could lead to amputation.
Painful, infected ingrown toenails need professional treatment. Podiatrists perform quick in-office procedures to remove the offending nail border and prevent recurrence.
Custom orthotics correct biomechanical issues that cause foot, ankle, knee, and even hip pain. A podiatrist evaluates your gait and creates inserts molded specifically to your feet.
Most insurance plans cover podiatry visits with a specialist copay. Medicare covers podiatric services including diabetic foot exams, nail care for patients with qualifying conditions (diabetes, peripheral vascular disease), bunion surgery, and fracture treatment. Routine foot care (nail trimming, callus removal) is not covered by Medicare unless you have a qualifying medical condition. Custom orthotics coverage varies by plan. Verify your plan covers the specific service before scheduling.