Your feet spend quite a bit of time carrying your body weight and bearing the brunt of everyday life, so it’s not surprising that people feel aches and pains in their ankles and feet at times. However, some problems can be quite serious and might require the attention of a podiatrist. Dr. Hubert Lee of CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists, in Bellevue, WA. would like to share the top seven signs that it’s time to schedule an appointment.
- You’re becoming a serious runner. Running is an excellent form of exercise, but the steady impact with the ground can cause aches and pains and damage your feet. If you’re starting to run regularly for the first time, you should be aware of the potential issues that come with the running lifestyle.
- You’re experiencing pain in your ankle or foot. Swollen, stiff, red, and painful joints are often a sign of arthritis. With the right treatment, you’ll be able to maintain your joint function and control pain.
- You have been diagnosed with diabetes. As a person with diabetes, you’re at a much higher risk for ankle and foot-related conditions, which can range from dry skin to severe infections. Even a small bruise or cut can have severe effects on your body.
- Pain in your heel is slowing you down. Heel pain can affect the function of your legs, feet, and lower back. There are numerous reasons why you might experience extreme or persistent heel pain. Diagnosis is the first step in treating it.
- You have an ingrown toenail. An ingrown toenail happens when your toenail grows into the skin, thereby increasing your risk for infection. Toenails that are reddish or draining are often a sign of an ingrown toenail.
- You might have sprained or broken a bone. Just one awkward step can leave you with a strain, a sprained ankle, or a broken bone. If you feel sharp pains and think you may have damaged your ankle or foot, visit your podiatrist.
- You have a painful bunion. A large bump at the base of your big toe is known as a bunion. It occurs when the joint or bone of your big toe is out of place. This condition will only worsen without treatment, so don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment.
Keep a close eye on your foot health, and if you’re concerned about the condition of your feet, or think you might have an infection or injury, it’s important that contact the office of Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA at (425) 455-0936 today to book your visit or schedule an appointment online.
