It's Not Just Aching Feet: Foot Pain Symptoms You Should Address

22 September 2016
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Although most people will experience some type of foot pain occasionally, it shouldn't stick around. When you're dealing with persistent or severe pain, it's important to understand when you should be concerned. Here are a few of the symptoms that you should be attentive to and discuss with your doctor.

Tingling, Numbness, And Persistent Infections

Sores, infections, and loss of feeling in your feet is often the result of poorly controlled diabetes. Long-term high blood sugar levels can lead to severe problems with blood circulation and can cause nerve damage. This nerve damage leads to loss of feeling in your feet. Left unaddressed, you may experience undetected sores and subsequent infections. Over time, this could even lead to neuropathy and the need for amputation.

Repeated Cramping

While some cases of mild foot cramping can be caused by uncomfortable shoes or excessive time on your feet, other cases can be more significant. Foot cramping may be caused by conditions like the accumulation of plaque in your arteries or peripheral arterial disease.

Painful Heels

Feeling pain in your heel when you step down is not something you should take lightly. Especially if it persists for a long time, it may be an indication of bone spurs in your heel or a condition called plantar fasciitis. It could also be as simple as insufficient support in your shoes, so try buying a new pair of shoes that are more supportive.

Pain In The Ball Of Your Foot

If you're feeling a lot of pain in the ball of your foot and you notice swelling in that area, it could be the result of a neuroma. A neuroma is caused when a nerve becomes irritated. That irritation causes the swelling and pain. Over time, the nerve may thicken due to constant inflammation, causing it to become more painful.

Achilles Tendon Issues

When you're struggling with pain in your Achilles tendon, it's often the result of starting something new that's put unusual strain on the tendon. It's a condition known as tendinitis. Your doctor can help you with treatment options and stretches to help you avoid rupturing it. If you experience a problem like this, you'll want to address it immediately because a ruptured tendon will likely require surgery.

It's easy to overlook discomfort in your feet as a result of lots of strain and walking, but some problems can be much more severe. These are a few of the symptoms that you should take seriously. Talk with a doctor like those at the Advanced Foot Clinic if you're struggling with any of these problems.