When foot pain signals something more serious

Foot pain is often a simple nuisance of life, with discomfort arising from everyday factors like wearing ill-fitting shoes or standing for long periods at work. In these instances, the pain is usually temporary and alleviated with some rest. However, foot pain shouldn’t always be taken so lightly. When combined with other symptoms and sensations, it can be a sign there’s something serious going on in the body that requires immediate medical attention.

According to orthopedic surgeon Eric Gokcen, MD, of Trinity Health Mid-Atlantic Medical Group’s Orthopedics Langhorne, there are two underlying conditions that may first present in the feet: diabetes and peripheral artery disease.

“For the diabetic, one of the things that can show up is peripheral neuropathy, which is numbness and tingling in the feet, usually both feet. Sometimes it’s a burning sensation,” says Dr. Gokcen. “It can start on the bottom of the foot and progressively move up toward the ankle. That can be a sign of having diabetes and is certainly something that needs to be investigated.”

As for those with peripheral artery disease, or poor blood flow, they may experience discoloration and pain in the toes, especially when walking. This, explains Dr. Gokcen, is a major sign that blood flow to the feet is being restricted.

“That’s something you don’t want to ignore because you could lose your toes or your foot from an amputation because the blood flow is so poor. If you catch it early, vascular surgeons can do procedures to improve the blood flow of your feet and not only get rid of your pain, but make sure your feet do okay,” says Dr. Gokcen.

Even when severe foot pain isn’t a symptom of an underlying condition, ignoring it can wreak havoc on other parts of the body, including the knees, hips and lower back.

“You end up limping or trying to favor an area that hurts, and it ends up throwing your whole balance off,” says Dr. Gokcen. “You end up putting extra stress on other parts of your body and that’s how you can get pain in other areas as well.”

Those with foot pain that’s acute and persistent are urged to see an orthopedic surgeon as quickly as possible—especially when the pain is paired with discoloration, numbness or burning. Even if it ends up being something minor, such as a strain or tendonitis, it’s better to err on the side of caution.

An evaluation typically involves an X-ray to ensure the foot’s bones and structure are intact, followed by an examination by Dr. Gokcen.

“I check the pulse and sensation, how the joints move and every aspect I can to be able to come up with a diagnosis. Sometimes we do more extensive testing like MRI. But most of the time when I see people, I can tell what’s wrong from just the X-rays and examining their feet. Then, I come up with a game plan to help alleviate their pain and get them back to normal,” says Dr. Gokcen.

Surgery is usually a last-resort treatment option. If patients see him in a timely manner before a condition becomes too dire (especially with peripheral artery disease), simpler options like medication and physical therapy can provide relief.

It’s also important, stresses Dr. Gokcen, to take care of the feet as part of a daily routine. This includes washing the feet and, if desired, using lotion to avoid blisters; keeping toenails in good shape; and seeking medical intervention when deformities like bunions and/or hammertoes begin to form, as they’re much easier to treat in the early stages.

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