When Should You See a Podiatrist for Foot Pain?
Aching, painful feet are a complaint we often hear in our office. In many cases, self-care at home and rest are all that’s required. But there are times when irritating foot pain requires professional evaluation by a podiatrist. So, because September is Pain Awareness Month, today Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA, is sharing information regarding foot pain and when you need to schedule an appointment.
Studies show that about 8 out of 10 Americans live with foot pain, and some have chronic pain that doesn’t lessen. The pain ranges anywhere from minor aggravation to having an overwhelming impact on your daily life.
Patients we see who are experiencing moderate-to-severe foot pain commonly report that it’s restricting their daily activities. They may not be able to walk or engage in other activities as much as they’d like because of their foot pain. Most patients we treat say they would participate in more activities if their feet didn’t always hurt.
What’s causing your foot pain?
Our feet have a huge job to do. They bear your weight when you walk, run, move around, and stand on them. In addition, they serve as natural shock absorbers and have multifaceted workings.
Foot problems are extremely common. A wide assortment of issues can be the cause. Here are some common causes of foot pain that you should be aware of.
- Hammertoe
- Bursitis
- Arthritis
- Plantar fasciitis
- Bone spurs
- Tendonitis
- Bunions
- Diabetic neuropathy.
When should you see a podiatrist for your foot pain?
Most of our patients occasionally experience sore feet, but you should see a podiatrist if your feet regularly swell or ache. Everything from shoes that don’t fit properly to arthritis can cause foot pain. We can provide a precise diagnosis and recommend treatment options to relieve your foot pain.
Be on the lookout for these warning signs; they
- You notice wounds on your foot
- Foot pain is accompanied by swelling or redness
- Pain is severe
- Problems putting weight on your feet
- Both feet hurt at the same time
- You have an underlying condition like diabetes
- Pain lasts longer than two to five days
- Pain comes and goes or lasts several weeks.
Don’t ignore foot pain!
Stubborn foot pain can be a symptom of an underlying condition, such as peripheral artery disease (PAD). This condition causes decreased blood flow to the feet and legs and leads to wounds that heal poorly.
Whenever you experience long-lasting foot pain, you need to seek a professional assessment. If left untreated, certain underlying disorders can lead to serious health problems like infections. So don’t postpone seeing a podiatrist if you’re dealing with chronic foot pain.
If you experience chronic foot pain or think you may have a foot condition, contact Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA, today to make an appointment. You can schedule an appointment online or by calling us at 425-455-0936.