If you have suffered from foot and ankle pain at some point, you are not alone. Many people deal with some form of discomfort and foot pain at some point in their life. In many cases, the problem is as simple and reversible as switching to a more supportive and comfortable pair of shoes. Persistent heel and foot pain can also be a sign of an injury like a stress fracture or arthritis.

The podiatrists at Affiliated Podiatrists, Ltd in Chicago, IL recommend scheduling an appointment with a foot doctor to evaluate instances of foot and ankle pain that do not improve with rest and self-care.

Diagnosis and Treatment for Foot and Ankle Pain in Chicago

Some of the most common causes of ongoing foot and ankle pain are:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Achilles tendinitis
• Bone spurs
• Arthritis
• Bursitis
• Tendon/muscle tears and ruptures
• Breaks and fractures
• Diabetic/peripheral neuropathy
• Ingrown toenails
• Bone and joint deformities
• Gout
• Flat feet/overpronation/low arches
• Uncomfortable shoes
• Bunions and hammer toes

When to Schedule an Appointment with a Podiatrist

Depending on the underlying cause, many instances of foot pain can be relieved with conservative treatment like rest, ice, switching to comfortable shoes, investing in supportive inserts if necessary (orthotics) and over the counter pain relievers. Schedule an appointment with a podiatrist if conservative treatment does not resolve the pain within a few days. Seek immediate treatment for any of the following symptoms:

• Intense pain and swelling
• Open wound
• Signs of infection
• Fever
• Difficulty moving or putting weight on the foot or ankle

Find a Podiatrist in Chicago

If you are experiencing acute or long term pain, contact Affiliated Podiatrists, Ltd., in Chicago, IL by calling (773) 202-8800 to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today.

A staggering 72 percent of Americans say they do not exercise because foot pain prevents them from doing so, according to a recent survey by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA). This finding, when viewed in light of the soaring rates of US obesity as reported by the Centers for Disease Control, makes visiting a podiatrist and addressing foot pain critically important.

The study surveyed 1,000 US adults, ages 18 and older, to gain public opinion on attitudes toward foot health and foot care. Results showed that Americans view their feet as the least important body part in terms of their health and well-being. However, feet were the number one body part to experience pain, even more so than the teeth or skin. As foot pain contributes to a variety of negative health consequences, it is important that Americans seek the care of a podiatrist immediately if problems arise.

The physicians at Affiliated Podiatrists, Ltd. feel that podiatrists should be part of everyone’s health-care team, but it is especially important for those experiencing foot pain. A podiatrist can not only help ensure Americans are able to exercise, but also help catch signs of diabetes, arthritis, nerve and circulatory disorders.