Foot Pain

Each of your feet contains an intricate network of bones, tendons, joints, muscles, and ligaments. Every day, these components support the weight of your body and assist you in activities such as walking, running, and climbing stairs. Unfortunately, wear and tear over the years often leads to foot pain. At Podiatry Institute of the South, the team specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of foot pain. If you’re suffering, don't wait. Call the nearest office in Senatobia, Mississippi, West Memphis, Arkansas, or Memphis, Millington, or Bartlett, Tennessee, to make an appointment or book online today. 

What causes foot pain?

Foot pain is a common musculoskeletal problem that affects millions of men, women, and children. Although your feet are strong enough to support the weight of your entire body, they aren’t immune from injury. Foot pain can occur anywhere in your foot, from your toes to your Achilles tendon.

Common causes of foot pain include:

• Osteoarthritis
• Plantar fasciitis
• Ingrown toenails
• Hammertoes
• Bunions
• Heel spurs
• Neuromas
  

You might also develop foot pain as a result of a sports-related injury or chronic health condition such as diabetes.

What are the symptoms of foot pain?

The symptoms of foot pain vary from person to person and depend on the underlying cause. Sometimes foot pain is sharp, stabbing, and electric-like; other times, it’s dull and throbbing. If your foot pain is due to poor circulation or peripheral neuropathy, you might also experience tingling, numbness, increased sensitivity, or trouble keeping your balance.

When should I visit the doctor regarding foot pain?

Most mild cases of foot pain resolve on their own with rest, ice, and elevation. However, if home care doesn’t improve your symptoms, it’s important to make an appointment with the team at Podiatry Institute of the South.

You should seek prompt care for foot pain associated with:

• Severe pain
• Severe swelling
• An open wound
• A fever
  

You should also make an appointment at Podiatry Institute of the South if you’re unable to walk or put weight on your foot, or you have diabetes or chronic venous insufficiency, and a cut or ulcer isn’t healing. 

How is foot pain diagnosed?

To diagnose foot pain, your Podiatry Institute of the South provider asks you questions about your symptoms, reviews your medical history, and does a physical exam. Your podiatrist might also ask you to stand up, sit down, and walk around the room to observe your gait and posture. If these measures don’t provide adequate insight, your doctor might also recommend taking a series of digital X-rays to get a closer look at the bones and underlying structures in your feet or order an MRI.

How is foot pain treated?

Treatment for foot pain depends on the underlying cause and severity of your symptoms. If your pain is the result of plantar fasciitis or another type of overuse injury, your doctor might recommend rest, physical therapy, custom orthotics, or wearing more comfortable, supportive footwear. 

If your pain is the result of an ulcer or open wound, your doctor might recommend custom skin care products like biologics, medical-grade supplements, or antibiotics to limit your risk of infection. You might also benefit from regenerative medicine such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy or stem cell injections. 

If your foot pain is caused by a neuroma, your doctor might recommend a series of alcohol injections. For severe foot pain caused by a fracture or crush injury, surgical intervention may be necessary. 

Don’t let foot pain keep you from having an active, fulfilling life. Make an appointment at Podiatry Institute of the South by calling the office nearest you or by clicking the online booking tool today.