Often asked: Who To Call About Foot And Ankle Pain?

When should I go to the doctor for ankle pain?

Seek immediate medical attention if you: Have severe pain or swelling. Have an open wound or severe deformity. Have signs of infection, such as redness, warmth and tenderness in the affected area or a fever greater than 100 F (37.8 C) Cannot put weight on your foot.

What kind of doctor should I see for ankle pain?

For foot and ankle care, podiatrists and orthopedists are both qualified medical specialists you can consult. The best choice is to go for a podiatrist who has extensive experience diagnosing, treating, and preventing foot and ankle disorders.

What causes severe foot and ankle pain?

Most cases of foot or ankle pain are short term and are caused by soft tissue injuries, such as sprains or strains. These should gradually heal with the help of simple self-care measures. Though some could take a few months to fully recover, you probably won’t need to seek treatment from a healthcare professional.

Should I go to the ER for foot pain?

Go to an urgent care or ER for foot pain if: You have severe pain and swelling. You are unable to walk or put weight on your foot. Have an open wound ( Emergency room only) Have signs of infection such as redness, warmth or tenderness ( Emergency room only)

Why is the inside of my ankle hurting?

An acute injury like a fall can tear the tendon or cause it to become inflamed. Once the tendon becomes damaged the arch will slowly fall over time. This can cause pain along the inside of the foot or ankle, pain that worsens with activity, and pain on the outside of the ankle due to compensation.

Why has my ankle suddenly started hurting?

Ankle pain is often caused by common injuries like a sprain, or medical conditions like arthritis, gout, or nerve damage. Discomfort commonly comes in the form of swelling and bruising for 1 to 2 weeks.

Should I see a podiatrist or orthopedist for ankle pain?

As a general guideline, if you have an injury, condition, or symptoms affecting your foot or ankle health, it’s best to see a podiatrist. If you have an injury, condition, or symptoms affecting any other part of your musculoskeletal system, it’s best to see an orthopedic physician.

Do podiatrists treat plantar fasciitis?

The pain of plantar fasciitis can sometimes be confused with heel spurs or tarsal tunnel syndrome. Your podiatrist can provide the correct diagnosis for any foot pain you are suffering.

What is the difference between a podiatrist and a foot and ankle specialist?

The primary and most important difference is the level of training each completes. Altogether, a foot and ankle surgeon will have 10+ years of training. Podiatrists attend podiatry school for four years followed by a 2-3 year residency. Altogether, a podiatrist will have 6-7 years of training.

What does rheumatoid arthritis feel like in ankles?

How does RA in the ankles feel? The main symptom of RA in the ankle joint is inflammation, making the joint swollen, painful, and stiff. This can restrict the joint’s mobility, and impair a person’s ability to walk and stand. In the early stages, symptoms may be mild and infrequent.

Can foot pain be a sign of heart problems?

When the heart’s pumping is strained by something like peripheral arterial disease, it reduces the flow of blood to your feet, making them hurt or making them swollen.

What part of the foot hurts with diabetes?

Peripheral neuropathy It’s the most common type of diabetic neuropathy. It affects the feet and legs first, followed by the hands and arms. Signs and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy are often worse at night, and may include: Numbness or reduced ability to feel pain or temperature changes.

Why did my foot suddenly started hurting?

Injury, overuse or conditions causing inflammation involving any of the bones, ligaments or tendons in the foot can cause foot pain. Arthritis is a common cause of foot pain. Injury to the nerves of the feet may result in intense burning pain, numbness or tingling (peripheral neuropathy).

How do I know if my foot pain is serious?

Seek immediate medical attention if you:

1. Have severe pain or swelling.
2. Have an open wound or a wound that is oozing pus.
3. 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)
4. Are unable to walk or put weight on your foot.

How do I make my foot stop hurting?

10 Home Remedies to Relieve Sore Feet

1. Draw a bath.
2. Try stretching.
3. Practice strengthening exercises.
4. Get a foot massage.
5. Buy arch supports.
6. Switch your shoes.
7. Ice your feet.
8. Take a pain reliever.