FAQs
As a general rule, if foot pain is your only issue, a podiatrist is a great choice. If you have pain all throughout your body, such as the neck and back, you should see an orthopedic doctor. If you can find a doctor that is trained in both orthopedics and podiatry, that is much better in the long run.
Who is the best person to treat foot pain? ›
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.
What is the best therapy for foot pain? ›
To treat it:
- Rest your foot.
- Do heel and foot muscle stretches.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Use cold packs or ice on your heel and the bottom of your foot.
- Wear shoes with good arch support and a cushioned sole.
- Wear a cutout heel pad.
- Use a custom-made insert (called an orthotic) worn in the shoe.
Can telehealth help with foot pain? ›
An Easy Guide to Telemedicine
We can diagnose and prescribe treatment protocols for the majority of foot and ankle conditions. These conditions include: heel pain, ankle sprains, Achilles tendonitis, nerve pain, stress fractures, arthritis, athlete's foot.
What tests are done for foot pain? ›
Tests
- X-rays. A simple X-ray uses a small amount of radiation to produce images of the bones and joints in the feet. ...
- CT scan. This test takes X-rays of the foot from different angles and provides much more detail than a standard X-ray.
- Ultrasound. Ultrasound may be used when a tendon injury is suspected. ...
- MRI .
What diseases start with foot pain? ›
If your shoes aren't a problem, you may have one of several conditions that cause foot pain. Arthritis, a fractured or broken bone, gout, tendinitis, plantar fasciitis can all make your feet hurt. You're more likely to have foot problems as you get older and your joints wear down.
What is the best pill for foot pain? ›
Oral analgesic medications such as acetaminophen (paracetamol) or aspirin are often the first line choice for quick relief of foot pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen are also often recommended and can help to reduce inflammation at the same time.
How to stop nerve pain in the foot? ›
Ways to Treat Nerve Pain at Home
- Soak in Warm Water and Epsom Salt. Soaking in Epsom salt can help ease the pain and discomfort associated with nerve pain. ...
- Compression Socks/Neuropathy Socks. ...
- Rest. ...
- Ice the Pain. ...
- Check Feet Daily. ...
- Avoid Alcohol. ...
- Anesthetic Lidocaine. ...
- Massage Your Feet.
How do I fix the pain in my foot? ›
Take breaks often to rest your feet. Use ice packs to ease pain and swelling. Soak your feet in Epsom salt for 20 minutes a day. Wear compression socks to reduce inflammation and improve circulation.
What is the most painful foot condition? ›
Morton neuroma, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendinopathy are among the most common painful foot and ankle conditions.
Just like your neck, back, and shoulders, your feet can also benefit from a regular rubdown. Foot massage improves circulation, stimulates muscles, reduces tension, and often eases pain.
What are the signs of arthritis in your feet? ›
Foot Arthritis and Ankle Arthritis Symptoms
- Pain that occurs during activity or motion.
- Tenderness in the joint area.
- Swelling in the joints accompanied by warmth and redness.
- Stiffness, pain and swelling after sitting, resting or inactivity.
- Difficulty walking or moving.
How do you live with chronic foot pain? ›
Rest and ice your feet during the day. Also, consider a foot massage to stimulate circulation, reduce tension, and soothe muscles. Wear comfortable shoes that offer support without putting too much pressure on your feet. For severe pain, visit your podiatrist.
What is electric treatment for foot pain? ›
Shockwave Therapy is a treatment whereby a handheld probe is positioned over and moved around, the base of the heel/arch of the foot or Achilles Tendon at the back of the heel. The probe delivers very high-energy acoustic sound waves which expand as they travel inside the foot.
Can I get disability for foot pain? ›
Social Security Disability benefits are a necessary life line for those who can no longer work due to osteoarthritis and other foot conditions.
What can a podiatrist do for foot pain? ›
Podiatry treatment may include physical therapy, the use of orthotics, a night splint to stretch the calf and arch of the foot, taping and strapping to reduce strain and give support to the plantar fascia tissue in acute cases, and a programme of stretching exercises.
How do I know if my foot pain is serious? ›
Seek immediate medical attention if you:
Have signs of infection, such as redness, warmth and tenderness in the affected area or you have a fever over 100 F (37.8 C). Are unable to walk or put weight on the foot. Have diabetes and have any wound that isn't healing or is deep, red, swollen or warm to the touch.
When should you go to a doctor for foot pain? ›
Have severe pain or swelling, especially after an injury. Have an open wound or a wound that is oozing pus. Have signs of infection, such as redness, warmth and tenderness in the affected area or you have a fever over 100 F (37.8 C). Are unable to walk or put weight on the foot.
What is the difference between a foot specialist and a podiatrist? ›
Podiatrists complete four years of higher education at a school of podiatry to receive their medical certification. They follow their podiatry education with two to three years of residency. Foot and ankle specialists receive additional advanced training to treat traumatic injuries of the lower leg, ankle, and foot.