Walking is something we often take for granted. Few of us take the time to count our steps and actually appreciate how amazing our feet are. Developing foot pain is often what makes us realize how important and neglected our feet sometimes are.
As we know, it can strike at any moment. Swelling in our ankles, pain in our heels, tightness in our toes. But why does it happen? Foot pain can be caused by many different factors that can occur at any time.
At Beyond Podiatry, we’re experienced at identifying the factors that lead to foot and ankle pain and helping you feel better faster. Below are just some of the concerns that could be causing your discomfort and what you can do about them.
Common Causes of Ankle and Foot Pain
Ankle and foot pain can often have several causes, some of which are easier to identify than others. For example, hammertoes and bunions are easy to identify visually. A bunion deformity is often easily recognized by the enlarged and prominent appearance of the inside aspect of the 1st toe joint. It usually involves the big toe leaning in towards the 2nd toe. Hammertoe deformities can be identified by the contracture of the toes, with the top of the hammer toe joints often being painful and prominent in shoe gear.
The deviated position of the toes with regards to these conditions can cause calluses that are typically small, yellow bumps that form on top, bottom, or in between your toes. Both of these conditions can be made worse by wearing uncomfortable shoes. If you have either problem, you might not experience pain all the time. As such, when pain does occur, it has the potential to cause some confusion.
Bunions increase in size over time as continued pressure is put on your bones. As the bone of your big toe migrates toward the more inside aspect of your foot, it can result in sudden bursts of pain about the joint structure. Similarly, calluses don’t always cause foot pain. Rather, these growths hurt when pressure is applied to them, usually while wearing tight-fitting shoe gear.
When it comes to the treatment of these conditions, you may be tempted to reach for an over-the-counter cure. However, in some cases, this can often result in more harm than good. For instance, many over-the-counter callous medications include salicylic acid. While this acid can remove corns and calluses, it can also make your skin vulnerable to infection.
For the proper treatment of hammertoes, bunions, calluses, and other growths, turn to Beyond Podiatry. Our podiatrists are trained to identify sources of foot pain and treat these conditions in a safe and effective manner.
Fractures, Sprains, and Strains
The foot and ankle have complex skeletal structures which are connected by a system of muscles, nerves, tendons, and ligaments. Any of these areas can become injured, even during a routine activity such as walking or running.
When pain and difficulty in walking occur, it can be hard to spot the specific source of the problem. Generally, it’s a good idea to rest and apply ice initially to help treat the symptoms and have more concern if there is no immediate relief from these measures. In cases like this, it can be hard to tell what the underlying condition is, especially if you can’t distinguish between a fracture, sprain, or strain.
At Beyond Podiatry, we can provide examinations and perform advanced imaging techniques to help determine the cause of your pain. Once identified, we can offer treatment that will help your body heal. In most cases, sprains can take up to several weeks to heal, while a fracture typically takes 6-8 weeks.
Foot Pain Can be a Sign of Chronic Illness
Certain diseases such as diabetes and arthritis are known to cause foot pain. Neuropathic pain in the feet is a common issue with diabetics. Often, a tingling, burning, or stinging sensation accompanies this type of concern. In the case of arthritis, joint pain caused by stiffness and inflammation is common. Along with those symptoms, you may also find it difficult to get around.
Unlike a sprain or strain, foot pain caused by a chronic illness can’t be addressed at home. The best thing to do is to visit a specialist that can provide you with the medication you need to manage your pain.
At Beyond Podiatry, we have several locations in Michigan, Illinois, and Kentucky. Each is staffed by experts in the field of podiatry ready to cater to your specific needs. Whether your pain is caused by a temporary issue or a chronic condition, we’re ready to help.
Find Help for Foot Pain in Michigan, Illinois, & Kentucky
Our skilled podiatrists here at Beyond Podiatry can diagnose and treat the source of your foot pain. If you’ve been experiencing pain and are ready for relief, get in touch today. Get started by calling to book an appointment at your closest location.