Ignoring foot pain is never a good idea. If you try to carry on with your usual activities, your symptoms are likely to worsen, making walking and standing even more difficult. Fortunately, here at The Foot & Ankle Group in Philadelphia, PA, Mount Laurel, Bordentown, and Columbus, NJ, your podiatrists can diagnose the source of your pain and offer effective treatments that will get your back on your feet once again.
What causes foot pain?
Foot pain can have many causes. Did the pain start after you went for a run, took an exercise class or played your favorite sport? You may have a stress fracture, tendonitis, bursitis, or a torn tendon. These conditions are more likely to occur if you work out too hard or too long, increase the intensity of your workout suddenly, or don't wear supportive shoes.
Falls and accidents may cause fractures, strains, and sprains in your feet and ankles. These injuries are often accompanied by bruising and swelling. If the bones in your foot or ankle look deformed or if you have severe pain after an accident, call your podiatrist or go to the emergency room.
Other possible causes of foot pain include:
- Nerve damage
- Ingrown toenails
- Gout
- Stone bruise
- Infections
- Plantar warts
- Lacerations
- Arthritis
- Plantar fasciitis
- Bone spurs
- Infected sores or ulcers
What can I do about sudden foot pain?
In many cases, foot pain will improve if you stay off your feet as much as possible and use ice and over-the-counter pain medication to control pain and inflammation.
If your symptoms don't improve in a week or two, it's a good idea to make an appointment with your podiatrist. Don't wait to call the foot doctor if you have diabetes. Even minor foot injuries can quickly become infected whether you have Type 1 or 2 diabetes.
Call right away if you notice signs of infection (pus on your wound, red streaks on the skin, or fever), a change in the normal color of your skin, severe pain/numbness, or if you can't put any weight on your foot.
Need relief? Give us a call
Do you suffer from foot pain? A visit to your podiatrist in Mount Laurel, Bordentown or Columbus, NJ, or Philadelphia, PA, can help ease your aches and pains. Schedule an appointment with the foot doctors at The Foot & Ankle Group by calling (215) 332-5300 for the Philadelphia office, (856) 234-0195 for the Mount Laurel office, (609) 291-0960 for the Bordentown office or (609) 298-7000 for the Columbus office.
