Due to the burden that feet bear, foot pain is fairly common. Your feet bear your weight, which can be a major impact depending on how much you are on your feet. For those who have jobs that require you to stand, the impact may be worse than those who have respite with a desk job. You might wonder though when to see a doctor about foot pain.
When to See a Doctor About Foot Pain
Foot pain can range from mild to severe and can impact your toes, heels, arches, or soles. Some foot pain can be healed through changes in behavior and diet. However, others may require a visit to the doctor. Below you will find information on when to see a doctor about your foot pain.
Foot Pain Symptoms That Require Medical Attention
Depending on your symptoms, you may need to seek immediate medical attention. However, some symptoms are not as urgent and may just require a doctor’s office visit. Below you will find symptoms that require only an office visit.
- Swelling that is persistent and does not get better after a few days of rest and home care
- Pain that is persistent for more than a few weeks
- Numbness, tingling, or burning pain on the bottom of your foot
Below you will find the symptoms that require urgent medical attention.
- Severe pain or swelling
- Inability to walk or bear weight on your foot
- Open wound and/or a wound that has pus coming from it
- Redness, warmth, or tenderness on or near the affected area, or any other signs of infection
- Fever of over 100 degrees Fahrenheit
- Have diabetes and a wound that is not healing
Caring for Your Feet
Before you can get to the doctor, it’s important to take care of your feet in the meantime. Avoid things that will further impact your pain, such as excessive exercise or running. Use a cold pack throughout the day for fifteen-minute intervals to help reduce any swelling. In addition to using a cold pack, you can use anti-inflammatory medication to help with any pain. It is best to stay off of your feet as much as possible until you can see a medical professional.
Foot Pain Treatment
One of the most common issues for those who have foot pain are bunions. Bunions are a medical condition that impacts your big toes. Your big toes will naturally point towards your other four toes. Bunions occur when your big toe moves further into your other four toes and can be very painful. The transition of your toes occurs slowly over time, but it can negatively impact your gate when you walk or run. Due to the severe pain, it’s important to get treatment as soon as possible.
For those who have foot pain related to their bunion diagnosis, it’s important to get bunion surgery. The surgery can drastically improve your quality of life as you can walk, run, and exercise free from pain. Foot pain can impact the rest of your body as issues with your alignment can impact not just your feet, but your ankles, knees, hips, and back. Getting bunion surgery sooner than later can ensure that your foot pain does not impact other parts of your body. The surgery is a common procedure that is highly effective. It is relatively painless, and the recovery time is fast.
Foot Doctor Los Angeles
If you are pain in your feet and are concerned you may have bunions, contact Dr. Jamshidinia at Jamfeet. He is a board-certified surgeon trained in all areas of foot and ankle treatment and surgery. Dr. Jamshidnia and his team believe in comprehensive patient care and focus on getting you back to full health. Contact your foot doctor Los Angeles today for an appointment!