Four Common Causes of Foot Pain

September is Pain Awareness Month. While foot pain is common, it is neither normal nor unavoidable at any age. An expert podiatrist like Dr. Stavros O. Alexopoulos can diagnose the source of your discomfort and provide relief. Here are some common causes of foot pain that you should know. If you suspect that you have developed any of these issues, you should schedule a visit with your foot doctor without delay.

Ingrown toenails: When a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, an ingrown toenail occurs. You can spot an ingrown toenail by being alert to discomfort and redness, swelling, and pus at the spot where the toenail meets the skin. If you suspect an ingrown toenail, see your podiatrist for care. Do not pick or cut at it; infection can result.

Each of your feet and ankles consists of 26 bones that connect in 33 joints. They are particularly vulnerable to arthritis and other degenerative joint diseases. Talk to your foot doctor about treatment options, including over-the-counter and prescription medication, orthotics, and custom inserts to provide the cushioning and support you need to wear shoes, stand, walk, and exercise free from discomfort.

Bunions and hammertoes are common foot deformities that lead to pain. While a bunion can occur on any toe, they most often occur when the joint where the big toe joins the foot moves out of place. A hammertoe develops when the tendon that connects a toe to the foot shortens, and the affected toe rises and is out of line with the others. The toe might be curled or straightened, and the range of motion can be limited. Be alert to a hard, bony protrusion accompanied by pain, redness, and swelling.

A thick band of tissue runs along the bottom of your foot called the plantar fascia. When it becomes inflamed, the result is plantar fasciitis.  Pay attention to heel pain, especially when you first get out of bed in the morning, as this is one of the hallmarks of plantar fasciitis, and schedule a visit with your podiatrist for examination, diagnosis, and treatment.

Is foot pain keeping you from enjoying your daily activities, or do you have another concern about the health and wellness of your feet, ankles, or lower legs? Call the friendly My Chicago Foot Expert staff at (773) 561-8100 or click here to schedule an appointment with Cook County podiatrist Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in our modern, comfortable Ravenswood office today.