What causes foot pain?
The foot is an intricate structure that undergoes heavy use on a day-to-day basis. Because of this, foot pain is a common problem. The team at Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Mexico treats many causes of foot pain, including:
- Arthritis, including osteoarthritis and gout
- Foot and ankle trauma, including fractures, sprains, and strains
- Diabetic foot problems, including neuropathy and ulcers
- Toenail problems, including fungal infections and ingrown toenails
- Deformities, including bunions, hammertoes, and flat feet
- Sports injuries, including plantar fasciitis, tendinitis, and stress fractures
Other common foot problems include athlete’s foot, corns, calluses, and warts. People who have diabetes and those who carry extra weight due to pregnancy or obesity are more likely to develop foot pain.
When should I see a podiatrist for foot pain?
Some causes of foot pain, such as ingrown toenails, resolve with simple home treatments. Other conditions, such as bunions and flat feet, don’t go away on their own.
If your foot pain is ongoing or severe enough to limit your normal activities, the team at Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Mexico can help. You should schedule an appointment right away if:
- Foot pain is sudden and severe
- You can’t bear weight on the foot
- A recent injury caused your foot pain
- You have an open wound
- The foot pain is accompanied by a fever
- You have signs of inflammation, like redness and swelling
People who have a medical condition that interferes with blood flow, such as diabetes or peripheral artery disease (PAD), should seek immediate treatment for foot pain.
How is foot pain diagnosed and treated?
First, your podiatrist asks how the foot pain started and whether anything makes it better or worse. They review your medical history and carefully examine your foot.
They may also take tests to further evaluate the structures of your foot. All five Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Mexico locations offer on-site X-rays and ultrasound tests for convenient diagnostic imaging.
After they diagnose your foot pain, your podiatrist develops a personalized treatment plan that may include:
- Medications to reduce pain and inflammation
- Medications to fight infection, including antifungals and antibiotics
- Custom orthotics, including shoes, inserts, and arch supports
- Physical therapy
- Casting or bracing
- Changing footwear
- Padding the foot
If your foot pain doesn’t resolve with conservative treatments, they may recommend foot and ankle reconstruction surgery.
To find relief from foot pain, call Foot & Ankle Specialists of New Mexico or book an appointment online today.
