Aching feet are a common complaint, and in many cases, rest and self-care at home are all that’s needed. However, there are times when nagging foot pain requires professional evaluation. Nearly 8 out of 10 people experience foot pain, and some have persistent pain that doesn’t go away. Regardless of the category in which you find yourself, it’s wise to learn more about foot pain and know when to see a doctor.
Foot pain can range from a minor annoyance to having a profound impact on your daily life. People we see with moderate-to-severe foot pain at the Hunter Foot and Ankle Associates clinic commonly report restricting their activities. They may not walk as much as they’d like to or engage in as many activities due to foot pain. Most say they would participate in more activities if they didn’t have foot pain.
Causes of foot pain
The feet have a big job to do. They must bear your weight when you stand, walk, run and move around on them. They act as natural shock absorbers and have complex workings. Foot problems are incredibly common. Roughly 80% of American adults report having a foot ailment at some point in their lives. A wide variety of issues can result in foot pain. Here are some common causes of foot pain that you should know about.
When to see a doctor
Most people experience sore feet from time to time, but it’s wise to see a podiatrist if your feet regularly ache or swell. Everything from poorly fitting shoes to arthritis can cause foot pain. A podiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment options to relieve your foot pain. Watch out for these warning signs that you should seek professional evaluation.
Why you shouldn’t ignore foot pain
Persistent foot pain can be a sign of an underlying condition, such as peripheral artery disease. PAD causes reduced blood flow to the legs and feet. It can lead to foot pain and wounds that heal poorly. Anytime you have lasting foot pain it’s necessary to seek professional assessment. Left untreated, certain underlying conditions that cause foot pain can lead to serious health problems like infection. Don’t put off seeing a doctor if you’re dealing with chronic foot pain.
Who to visit about foot pain
According to a national survey, many people with foot pain tend to visit their primary care physicians for assessment. Others perform a web search with questions regarding their foot pain before considering seeing a specialist. Podiatrists are dedicated to diagnosing and treating foot, ankle and lower extremity issues. It’s best to visit a podiatrist if you’re experiencing foot pain.