September is Pain Awareness Month. A recent study determined that more than half of the Americans surveyed had experienced foot pain. Are you one of them? This discomfort can seriously impact your life, temporarily restricting activities. Left unaddressed, chronic foot pain can lead to a sedentary lifestyle contributing to further health issues. The good news is that a podiatrist like Cook County foot doctor Dr. Stavros O. Alexopoulos is a medical expert able to diagnose and treat foot pain and all illnesses and injuries to the feet, ankles, or lower legs.
There are as many causes for foot pain as feet, but some issues commonly cause discomfort. Are you familiar with any of these?
- The 26 bones and 33 joints in each of your feet are vulnerable to joint diseases, including arthritis, like the rest of your body. The pain of these diseases can make it hard to wear shoes, stand, walk, or exercise.
- Foot deformities such as bunions and hammertoes increase with age. Report any change in foot shape to your podiatrist without delay.
- It’s easy to think of an ingrown toenail as a nuisance, but they are much more than that. An ingrown toenail can lead to painful infection and keep you off your feet for a time.
When it comes to treating foot pain, your podiatrist has a wide range of options and will carefully choose the most appropriate one for you. Depending on the diagnosis, common approaches include:
- medication to relieve discomfort and inflammation
- physical therapy provided by trained professionals
- custom orthotics for improved cushioning during long hours standing and support to correct issues related to posture or gait
- surgery, when necessary and appropriate
Are you worried about foot pain, or do you have another concern about the health and wellness of feet, ankles, or lower legs? It’s time for a visit with your podiatrist. Call the friendly My Chicago Foot Expert staff at (773) 561-8100 or click here to schedule an appointment with Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in today’s modern, comfortable Ravenswood office.