There are many possible causes of foot injuries, including trauma from an accident or fall, overuse or repetitive stress, and underlying medical conditions. Foot injuries can range from minor to severe, and may require simple at-home care or more aggressive treatment by a healthcare professional.
Foot injuries that can be treated at home with over-the-counter medication and rest include blisters, bunions, corns, calluses, and ingrown toenails. More serious injuries that occur from sports, such as fractures or sprains should be seen by a doctor. Some things are best left to the expertise of a foot injury doctor, simply known as a foot doctor. Let’s discuss when you should see one.
Signs or Symptoms You Should See a Doctor for Your Foot Injury
Make an appointment with a foot doctor if you notice/experience the following:
- Severe pain in the foot that does not go away with over-the-counter medication or rest
- Swelling in the foot that is severe and/or persists for more than a few days
- Bruising on the foot that is severe and/or covers a large area
- Difficulty standing, walking, or bearing weight on the injured foot
- Numbness or tingling in the injured foot
- An open wound will not stop bleeding or is oozing pus
- A feeling of warmth in the injured foot, and developing a fever of over 100 F
Fractures
If you suspect a fracture, you should see a doctor immediately. A podiatrist is a foot and ankle specialist who can provide comprehensive care for a foot fracture. These doctors specialize in treating problems with the feet and ankles. Treatment for a foot fracture often includes immobilization of the affected area, which may require the use of a cast or boot. A podiatrist can also prescribe physical therapy to help speed up the healing process, reduce pain and swelling, and restore mobility.
Diabetes
Medical conditions, such as diabetes, can complicate injury healing. If you are diabetic, it is best to have wounds and injuries affecting the foot evaluated by a medical professional. Due to your medical condition, you are at a much greater risk of complications. Therefore, any and all foot conditions should be brought to the attention of your foot and ankle doctor.
Foot Injury Treatment in San Antonio, Boerne, Hondo, Floresville, Kenedy, and Live Oak, TX
The physicians at The Podiatry Group of South Texas are foot and ankle surgeons, which means we can provide the full range of medical and surgical treatments for your foot injury, and create a rehabilitation plan to get you back to even better shape than before. Our foot and ankle doctors are also trained and experienced in minimally invasive arthroscopic repair, which usually means less pain and a faster recovery period, and is also highly experienced in limb salvage or amputation for diabetic patients who have suffered complications from their wound.
For any questions or to schedule an appointment with one of our foot and ankle doctors, call our office nearest you or use our convenient online appointment request form.
