Since your feet play an essential role in your body’s overall health, it is critical that you don’t wait to seek the help of a podiatrist with any of your foot and ankle pain, waiting until it is too late.
Whether you don’t recognize the signs or symptoms of a more serious concern, or simply think that it will heal itself over time, it is important to understand when it is time to see a podiatrist, such as with the following:
Persistent Foot Swelling or Numbness: If swelling and numbness are regularly occurring, it is a good indication that there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed. From tendonitis to a broken bone or infection, there are many reasons why your foot or ankle could be swelling or causing numbness. If the numbness is accompanied by tingling or burning, it could be a sign of nerve damage, which is something people with diabetes are particularly susceptible to.
Thick Calluses or Corns: Corns and calluses are not typically a cause for concern, however, the underlying cause of them might be. Problems with your gait, or the structure of your foot, including bunions and hammertoes, may be the reason for the development of corns and calluses, which could be reason enough to visit your podiatrist.
Painful Bunions: While wearing the right shoes can help relieve the pain associated with bunions, bunions are caused by a deformity in the foot, which means it is necessary to see your podiatrist in order to properly correct the underlying issue.
Pain when Walking or Exercising: If your feet are causing your pain when you’re active or moving around, you would have a foot injury that isn’t or hasn’t healed properly, such as a stress fracture. Without proper treatment, your injury could get worse over time, making treatment and recovery time longer.
Cracked or Bleeding Heels: Typically, dry and cracked heels can be fixed with a bit of sloughing and foot cream, but the longer the dryness and split skin on your heel persists, the more problems you’re likely to experience. This may cause your heels to bleed, which makes them far more susceptible to infections, which can especially be a cause for concern if you have diabetes.
Ingrown Toenails: These can quickly go from being a minor discomfort to extremely painful and horribly infected. It is best to avoid treating an ingrown toenail on your own. Rather, seek professional help which can help to ensure the condition is treated properly without causing damage to your toenail or surrounding tissues.
Whether you are experiencing a foot or ankle issue that you have been putting off, or it is has been a while since your last checkup, contact the Foot and Ankle Specialists of Illinois today!
