Foot issues, such as bunions, hammertoes, and heel pain, should be addressed early to prevent them from escalating. Visit a foot doctor or podiatrist as soon as you experience persistent pain and other unusual symptoms. Podiatrists diagnose the underlying issue, help manage the discomfort, and identify an effective treatment. Here are a few times you should consult a podiatrist for your symptoms:
Ongoing Foot or Heel Pain
Pain that lingers for several days, even with rest, should be addressed; the pain may stem from overuse or poor footwear. Structural problems, such as plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and Achilles tendonitis, also have the potential to cause pain. These conditions cause sharp, throbbing pain near your heel, especially in the morning or after periods of activity.
Some people experience pain caused by flat or high-arched feet. Ignoring recurring pain can lead to further strain on your joints, muscles, and ligaments. If your body naturally adjusts how you walk to reduce pain, it creates pressure in other areas of your foot and leg. This imbalance may lead to knee, hip, and back problems later.
Seeing a foot doctor early allows you to receive effective relief for the discomfort; this helps prevent secondary complications. Your doctor may recommend non-invasive treatments, such as stretching, custom orthotics, or physical therapy. Surgery is another option used to correct structural issues, such as bone spurs.
Persistent Swelling and Redness
Feet that swell after periods of intense activity may have reduced swelling with rest. Swelling sometimes appears near toes, ankles, or heels after prolonged periods of standing. These symptoms may also be accompanied by redness, stiffness, or tenderness, especially around the joints. If your feet remain swollen for an extended period, you should consult a doctor to determine if the symptom indicates a condition such as infection, gout, or circulation problems. Persistent swelling or redness can also be a sign of inflammatory conditions or blood clots. Seek medical attention immediately if the swelling spreads or becomes painful. Podiatrists use imaging and lab tests to diagnose the underlying issue.
If the symptoms are caused by gout, you may be prescribed medication to reduce uric acid levels. For infections, some treatments involve antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication. Doctors can also recommend compression or footwear changes to relieve pressure and support proper circulation. Seek early diagnosis and treatment to prevent serious issues, such as tissue damage and ulcer formation, especially if you have diabetes.
Numbness and Tingling Sensations
Numbness or tingling sensations in your feet that are caused by nerve compression or damage may be linked to neuropathy, circulation disorders, or diabetes. Some people experience burning sensations or sharp, shooting pain that appears suddenly or develops over time. If this happens, the nerves that transmit pain signals from your feet to your brain are not working properly, leaving you vulnerable to unnoticed injuries and sores.
Podiatrists perform nerve function tests to identify whether the symptoms come from neuropathy, pressure on specific nerves, or a vitamin deficiency. Seek early diagnosis to prevent permanent loss of sensation, which may occur if damaged nerves are left untreated. Podiatrists offer various treatment plans, including physical therapy, to enhance circulation. If the underlying issue is diabetes, treatment involves maintaining stable blood sugar levels and regular foot exams to prevent complications. Massage therapy may also improve circulation and nerve function.
Changes In Skin and Nail
Fungal infections and poor circulation may lead to changes in toenail color, thickness, or texture. Thickened or yellow nails sometimes worsen without medical care and can lead to brittleness. Skin changes, such as peeling, cracking, or ulcer formation around your toes and feet, are other concerning symptoms. If these symptoms heal slowly, they may signal diabetes or vascular disease. Podiatrists remove the infected tissue or prescribe antifungal medication to address the infection. They also provide wound care and manage diabetic foot ulcers to help prevent infection. If sores don’t heal on time, or dark spots develop in your skin, seek medical help immediately.
Speak to a Foot Doctor
Foot and ankle doctors treat and manage a wide range of conditions; these include ingrown toenails, corns, fractures, and sprains. Podiatrists can diagnose the problem and intervene before the symptoms lead to more serious conditions. Contact a foot doctor today for a professional diagnosis of your symptoms.
