5 Reasons Your Feet Might Need a Closer Look Under the X-Ray

Sometimes a little rest and ice are all you need to get back on your feet, but other times, the problem is literally buried beneath the surface. While we at My Chicago Foot Expert can tell a lot just by looking at your foot and asking a few questions, there are certain situations where an X-ray is the only way to get the full story. Here are five common foot problems that usually require a trip to the imaging room.

That Sudden Impact Fracture

If you accidentally dropped a heavy box on your foot while cleaning out the garage or tripped over a curb, an X-ray is often the first step. Even if you can still walk on it, you might have a clean break or a small chip in the bone. Getting an image allows your podiatrist to see exactly where the fracture is and whether the bones are still lined up correctly, which is huge for making sure you heal without long-term issues.

The Mystery of the Stress Fracture

If you have been ramping up your workout routine for 2026 and notice a deep, nagging ache that gets worse when you move, you might be dealing with a stress fracture. These are tiny, hairline cracks that develop from overuse. They often do not show a lot of swelling on the outside, so an X-ray helps confirm that the bone is reacting to the stress before the crack gets any bigger.

Bunions

Most people think of a bunion as just a bump on the side of the big toe, but it is actually a structural change in the bones of the foot. An X-ray is essential here because it lets us measure the specific angles of your bones. This information is vital for deciding whether you need a simple change in footwear or if a more significant correction is necessary to stop the pain.

Deep Joint Arthritis

If your toe joints feel stiff and gritty, especially in the morning, arthritis might be the culprit. When the cartilage wears down, that space gets smaller, and in some cases, you can see bone rubbing directly against bone. Knowing the extent of the wear and tear through an X-ray helps in creating a plan to keep your joints moving smoothly.

Hidden Bone Spurs

Bone spurs are little outgrowths of bone that usually develop in response to constant pressure or inflammation. And, although they are very common on the back of the heel (or on the bottom of the foot near the arch), you cannot feel a bone spur just by touching your skin.

An X-ray, however, will show these little spikes clearly and explain why you feel like you are stepping on a sharp pebble every time you walk.

For any questions about foot health and wellness, reach out to the tenured staff at My Chicago Foot Expert by calling (773) 561-8100 or by clicking here to schedule an appointment with Cook County podiatrist Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in our modern, comfortable Ravenswood office today.