Is a trip to the podiatrist in your future? If you’re in pain, it might be.
Many issues could lead to foot pain, from overuse to injuries to specific health conditions, so it’s nearly impossible to tell what’s causing your discomfort unless you visit our Brooksville, FL, podiatrist, Dr. Charles Chapel, for a thorough evaluation.
What Causes Foot Pain?
The list of foot pain causes is rather exhaustive, but certain conditions and issues are more common than others. These issues include,
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendonitis
- Sprains and strains
- Bursitis
- Bunions
- Bone spur
- Stress fracture
- Flat feet
- Arthritis
- Hammertoe
- Osteomyelitis (an infection of the bone)
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
When you come in for an evaluation, Dr. Chapel will ask you questions regarding your pain (e.g., location, severity, type of pain) and other symptoms you may be experiencing.
We will also perform a thorough physical exam to check the foot tendons, ligaments, bones and nerves to determine what’s going on. In some situations, imaging tests will need to be performed to detect problems such as a stress fracture.
Should I Call My Podiatrist?
While some pain will go away with rest and at-home care, it’s essential to know when to see a foot specialist to diagnose and treat the problem. You should turn to our Brooksville, FL, podiatrist right away if,
- Pain is severe
- Swelling is severe
- You are unable to bear weight on the foot
- You heard a pop or snap at the moment of injury
- You are also experiencing burning, tingling, numbness or weakness
- You have diabetes or nerve damage in your feet
If in doubt, give us a call, and we will be able to determine whether or not you should come in right away for emergency care.
How Is Foot Pain Treated?
The treatment plan we create will be based on the cause of your symptoms, so we won’t be able to tell you exactly how to treat your specific condition until we examine your foot first. Of course, many diseases can be managed with at-home care, such as,
- Pain relievers
- Icing/warm soaks
- Bracing or splinting
- Stretching/strengthening exercises
- Resting
- Elevation
- Custom orthotics
- Wearing a protective boot
- Using crutches (often used for fractures or broken bones)
- LASER THERAPY
If you are dealing with foot pain that won’t go away, you must have a foot care specialist you trust to provide you with the care you need. Dr. Chapel and the Chapel Podiatry team in Brooksville, FL, also serve the Homosassa, Hudson, and Spring Hill, FL areas. Call us at (352) 684-1444.