Foot injuries are one of the most common injuries that lead to a workers’ compensation claim. Together, the human foot and ankle put in some of the most effort of the human body. Even worse, they contain over 26 bones and more than a hundred muscles that can take a while to heal.
However, foot injuries are also very common. You may wonder when to see a podiatrist and when you’re better off going straight to the emergency room.
Here’s when you should schedule a visit to a foot and ankle specialist and how they can help.
Symptoms of Foot Problems
Each of your feet are complex structures made up of bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. An issue with any one of those things can cause pain, swelling, and even numbness. This can cause difficulty walking or putting weight on a foot.
Persistent Foot Pain
It’s completely normal to feel some amount of foot pain, especially after a long day of walking or standing. However, the pain should gradually disappear after a few days of rest. If it doesn’t, then that suggests that there’s a bigger issue or condition.
For example, big toe pain may range from a bunion to arthritis. Surgery can resolve one issue, but the other will need to be managed with a combination of therapies and medications.
Swelling and Inflammation
Swelling in the foot can happen due to overuse or injury. In these cases, rest or an ice pack can help reduce it.
Persistent swelling is a sign of an underlying condition such as arthritis or tendonitis. These are not so easily resolved, and you may need to see a specialist for foot conditions.
If you’ve suffered an injury and the swelling won’t go down, you’ll need to visit the ER for an x-ray.
Numbness and Tingling
Numbness and tingling can happen if something is cutting off circulation to your feet, such as with especially tight socks or the wrong pair of shoes. It’s also a potential sign of nerve damage.
Both tarsal tunnel syndrome and peripheral neuropathy can present with these symptoms. Neuropathy can happen if you’re diabetic and have uncontrolled blood sugar levels. Numbness in your toes may also happen if you have a low level of vitamin B12 or have a history of alcohol abuse.
Ankle Injury Signs
Most people will notice an ankle injury before a foot one simply because of the role it serves. The ankle bears the body’s weight and allows for a wide range of motion. When injured or damaged, it can compromise your entire leg.
Instability
Other than sudden pain, instability is one of the most immediate signs of an ankle injury. You may feel like your ankle is about to give out or that it’s unstable when you walk. Even if it doesn’t hurt, a weak ankle may be caused by ligament damage.
While instability may not seem like a big concern, it can lead to repeated injuries when not treated.
Limited Range of Motion
A limited range of motion or stiffness can happen due to either an injury or a condition such as arthritis. This stiffness can make your ankle more prone to further injury and affect your ability to perform daily activities.
An easy way to treat ankle stiffness is through stretches and exercises. These will help stretch out the ligaments and tendons, allowing for more flexibility. If attempting to stretch causes pain, then you’ll want to schedule a visit to your podiatrist.
Popping or Clicking Sounds
A ligament tear or discoloration may cause a popping or clicking sound in your ankle at the time of an injury. Even if the pain subsides, you’ll want a doctor to make sure that the joint has settled properly and isn’t out of place.
When to See a Podiatrist
No one wants to schedule a visit with their doctor for every scrape or bruise. However, it is important to know when to stop avoiding your podiatrist and give them a call.
To begin with, chronic pain or discomfort should always be treated by a doctor. For all you know, the source of the pain will only worsen over time and become much more serious. It may also require therapies that you can’t access at your local pharmacy.
Diabetic foot care also requires regular visits to the podiatrist to avoid things like ulcers or infections. This is especially important if a person has neuropathy in their feet.
If you’ve suffered an injury to your foot or ankle recently, you’ll want to set up visits to your podiatrist as you recover. Delaying or avoiding treatment can lead to improper healing and long-term problems.
Foot Pain Treatment Options
There are multiple treatment methods that your podiatrist may recommend.
First of all, rest your foot and ankle after minor injuries or overuse. This allows your body to heal naturally and prevent further strain. Your podiatrist may recommend physical therapy if your injury or condition has caused a permanent change to your foot’s mobility or strength.
Next, custom orthotics can help alleviate pain caused by structural problems. Something like a shoe insert helps with flat feet or high arches.
Over-the-counter pain relievers help minimize any pain you may feel and reduce inflammation. However, they won’t magically heal your foot or ankle.
More serious conditions, such as bunions or fractures, will require surgery to treat. A foot and ankle surgeon can correct deformities and repair torn ligaments. They’ll also bind your foot and ankle in a way that promotes recovery.
Find a Foot and Ankle Specialist Near You
A foot and ankle specialist is a person who has specifically received training to deal with issues involving the foot and ankle. You’ll want to rely on them as much as possible for the problems they can treat, rather than laying it all on your primary care physician. Don’t wait until your condition warrants a visit to the ER.
Elite Sports Medicine + Orthopedics provides patient-driven care for people in the Nashville and Franklin areas. Our doctors can treat pain in your knees, shoulders, elbow, back, feet, and more. Reach out today with any questions or to book an appointment.
Author: writers-amwn
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