It’s common for us to second-guess whether or not it’s time to talk to our doctor about something that’s bothering us. Foot and ankle pain is no different. For some, our ‘I can deal with it’ mantra overpowers our concern for the increasing pain. For others, our joint only aches when it rains so we might dismiss it. Other times, the pain is completely debilitating, leaving us no choice but to seek help.
Whether you’ve suffered from foot and ankle pain for years or just days, here are a few signs that it may be time to start a conversation with your doctor:
If you’re experiencing one or more of these symptoms, talk to your doctor about your options. Your primary care doctor may refer you to a podiatrist or orthopedic surgeon. They may suggest alternative, less invasive treatments first depending on the condition of your foot and/or ankle. Surgery may not be appropriate if you have an infection, do not have enough bone, or the bone is not strong enough to support an artificial joint (if you need an ankle joint replacement.