Many people experience foot pain in their lifetime, and it can occur for various reasons. Sudden pain can indicate a foot fracture has happened, and prompt medical attention is often sought. Conversely, foot pain may develop slowly, and can be in the form of aches, tenderness, or the feet may be itchy. Research has shown the feet are often affected in patients who have rheumatoid arthritis, which can cause the feet to have a limited range of motion. Gout is another condition that often begins with intense foot pain as a result of crystals that form in the joints of the big toe. Patients who do not have an arch are known to have flat feet, and this may possibly cause foot and ankle pain. If you have foot pain for any reason, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat any foot condition.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Shawn Echard, DPM from Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Greensburg and Somerset, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.