Experiencing temporary foot discomfort is normal. It might be because you’ve recently started running. That foot injury can be temporary and the pain will go away by wearing the right running shoes or getting some rest. You might also feel foot numbness after sitting for hours on your desk. Again, all you need to do is get up and move! However, constant foot pain that seems unusual is something you should be concerned about.
Chronic foot pain can speak out loud about an underlying medical condition. That’s when you should seek help from an ankle or foot doctor. Here are signs that indicate that it’s time to get the right treatment:
1. You Feel Constant Heel Pain
The cause of heel pain may go beyond just physical exertion. Among various causes, heel spur (bony growth), inflammation, or nerve irritation around the heel can be the culprit. You should contact your foot doctor if the pain is persistent. They will examine your foot before giving you the diagnosis and treatment.
2. Numbness and Stiffness Never Go Away
Numbness and stiffness are two tricky conditions that can either be completely normal or something serious. The key is to have a self-analysis first. If sitting for excessive hours has led your feet to feel pins and needles but the tingling sensation goes away after some time, there’s nothing to worry about. However, ongoing numbness and stiffness are a matter of concern and should be informed to a foot specialist.
3. You Have Recurring Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that can be treated with over-the-counter sprays or creams. But if you’re having this condition repeatedly, a podiatrist will help you get rid of it by prescribing oral medication.
4. You’re Diagnosed with Diabetes
Diabetes is often linked with foot problems ranging from skin infections, dry skin, and nerve damage. If you’re a diabetic, a foot doctor will conduct a foot exam to evaluate the severity of your condition. This analysis should be done once a year.
5. Your Ingrown Toenail Is Disrupting Your Daily Activities
Toenail growing into your skin is the most prominent symptom of an ingrown toenail. This condition is usually found in the big toe. You should consult a foot doctor if the toenail has turned red or is showing signs of drainage. The doctor will either remove some part of the affected nail or prescribe medications to remove any infection.
6. You Experience Joint Pain in Feet
Tired of seeing those swollen foot joints that are also tender, red, or stiff? If you also feel pain in the joints of your feet, it’s time to find out if Arthritis is the main cause. However, arthritis isn’t the only medical condition to blame. A foot doctor can diagnose the underlying issue after looking at your swollen joints.
7. You’re Having Ankle Sprain
If you’re unable to move your foot or moving it seems to hurt, you’re probably dealing with an ankle sprain. It’s inappropriate to combat the pain on your own. Therefore, you should consult your foot doctor so they can diagnose and treat the condition accordingly.
8. Your Bunion Bothers You
You might experience an annoying bunion if the joint or bone of your big toe is dislocated. If the bunion starts hurting, it might lead to unusual tenderness, swelling, or redness. Before these symptoms get worst, you should contact a foot doctor. Based on their evaluation, they’ll offer you a treatment plan including medications, padding, or surgery.
The Takeaway
Foot problems can directly impact overall health. Remember that healthy feet are happy feet. On the contrary, delaying treatment for ongoing foot problems may lead to serious issues. So, why wait when all it takes is to book an appointment with the right foot doctor? It doesn’t have to be complicated either. Following your doctor’s suggestions will help bring back the health of your feet.
