Foot Pain

Foot pain is a common musculoskeletal complaint, but if it lasts for more than a few days or affects your mobility, seeking treatment is crucial. At Step By Step Foot and Ankle Center, in West Covina, California, experienced podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon Artin Shakhbandaryan, DPM, offers complete care for various types of foot pain, including bunions, hammertoes, and diabetic ulcers. Call the nearest Step By Step Foot and Ankle Center office today to schedule foot pain treatment, or book your appointment online.

Do I need to see a podiatrist about foot pain?

Everyone suffers from foot pain occasionally, but if your symptoms continue for more than a few days and they don’t improve with ice, rest, and activity changes, identifying the cause is important. Without treatment, you might exacerbate the problem, increasing your risk of more serious complications. 

Dr. Shakhbandaryan has extensive training in diagnosing and treating the various causes of foot pain. He never rushes visits and explores all potential causes, ensuring nothing is missed or overlooked.

What causes foot pain?

Foot pain occurs for various reasons, including the following:

• Fractures
• Sports injuries
• Sprains and strains
• Trauma
• Bunions
• Arthritis and gout
• Corns and calluses
• Nerve damage (neuropathy)
• Stress fracture
• Plantar warts
• Ingrown toenails
• Sports injuries

Sometimes foot pain extends to the heels. That’s particularly true if you have plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendinitis.

How does a podiatrist diagnose foot pain?

Dr. Shakhbandaryan reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms, including what the pain feels like, if it extends into your ankles or lower legs, and if activities like exercising worsen it.

Then, he examines your feet, toes, and ankles, checking for skin discoloration, bruising, or swelling. Dr. Shakhbandaryan tests your muscle strength, reflexes, and range of motion and gently presses on the affected area to pinpoint sensitive places.

Some causes of foot pain, like bunions, are easy to see. But if there aren’t any visible indications, Dr. Shakhbandaryan orders diagnostic imaging, like X-rays or an MRI, to get a better look at the bones, joints, and soft tissues in your feet.

How does a podiatrist and wound care specialist treat foot pain?

Dr. Shakhbandaryan treats foot pain using a conservative and integrative approach when possible. But he also has extensive training in trauma and fracture care using a surgical approach. He might suggest:

• A splint, a cast or a walking boot (if you have a fracture)
• Wearing shoes that protect your feet
• Removing plantar warts, corns, or calluses
• Physical therapy
• Corticosteroid injections
• PRP injections
• Custom orthotics
• Activity changes

If your foot and ankle pain continues or worsens even after these treatments, you might qualify for surgery. Dr. Shakhbandaryan offers minimally invasive and traditional orthopedic surgery. All of the procedures Dr. Shakbandaryan performs are based on scientific literature and use advanced treatment techniques.

Call the nearest Step By Step Foot and Ankle Center office today to receive treatment for foot pain, or book your appointment online.