What is foot pain?
Foot pain includes any discomfort you experience in your foot, which includes any pain from the tip of your toes to your Achilles heel. The severity of your foot pain may vary, ranging from mild to severe.
Though you may be able to take care of your foot pain at home, if your pain doesn’t resolve within a few days or the pain is severe, contact Northern Virginia Orthopaedic Specialists for an evaluation. Delaying care for your foot pain may increase your risk of further damage or delay your recovery.
What causes foot pain?
You may develop foot pain from a variety of causes, including an injury, poor-fitting shoes, overuse, or an underlying disease. Some of the most common causes of foot pain include:
- Accessory navicular problems
- Achilles tendon rupture
- Achilles tendinitis
- Achilles tendinosis
- Adult-acquired flatfoot deformity
- Bunionette
- Bunions
- Claw toes
- Hammertoes
- Haglund’s deformity of the foot
- Hallux rigidus (a type of arthritis)
- Ingrown toenail
- Interdigital neuroma (Morton’s neuroma)
- Osteochondritis dissecans of the talus
- Plantar fasciitis
- Posterior tibial tendon problems
- Sesamoiditis (fracture)
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
The providers at Northern Virginia Orthopaedic Specialists are well-versed in the many causes of foot pain and can diagnose and treat the underlying cause of your foot pain and develop a comprehensive plan to alleviate your discomfort and restore function.
How is foot pain diagnosed?
Northern Virginia Orthopaedic Specialists conducts thorough evaluations to diagnose the cause of your foot pain. During the exam, your provider asks about your symptoms and the cause of your pain, as well as your usual activities and medical history. Then, your provider closely examines your foot and may request X-rays, which they take at the office, to confirm or rule out a diagnosis.
How is foot pain treated?
Treatment for your foot pain depends on your diagnosis, the severity of your symptoms, your daily activities, and your overall health. Northern Virginia Orthopaedic Specialists prioritizes patient education, and your provider spends a lot of time discussing your diagnosis with you, along with your treatment options so that you can make the most informed decision about your care.
Treatment for your foot pain may include:
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Pain medication
- Physical therapy
- Immobilization with a cast or brace
- Cortisone injections
- Low-energy shockwave therapy
- Special shoes or orthotics
In some cases, you may need surgery if conservative measures fail to improve your foot pain, or the underlying cause of your foot pain is severe.
Your foot is under constant stress, and pain is common. For expert care of your foot pain, call Northern Virginia Orthopaedic Specialists today.
