When to See a Podiatrist: Understanding Common Foot Conditions

Apr. 9, 2025 | Gillette, WY- Your feet carry you through life, so when pain, swelling, or bruising appear, it’s important to listen to what your body is telling you. But how do you know when discomfort is just a passing ache and when it’s time to see a podiatrist?

We spoke with Amy Winkleman, DPM, podiatry specialist, to break down key warning signs and why early intervention is crucial for long-term foot health.

Swelling and Bruising: What Are They Telling You?

Swelling and bruising in the feet or ankles can be more than just a nuisance, they’re often the body’s way of signaling an underlying issue.

“Swelling is often a sign of inflammation, injury or another underlying issue such as a fracture, sprain or infection,” says Dr. Winkleman. “If the swelling is persistent or does not improve with the basic rest, ice and elevation, it may indicate a more serious condition that requires attention from a podiatrist.”

“Bruising, on the other hand, occurs when blood vessels are damaged due to trauma.” While minor bruising can happen from everyday bumps, Dr. Winkleman warns that certain symptoms mean it’s time to see a podiatrist. If bruising is accompanied by sharp pain, difficulty walking, or deformity, that’s a red flag. It’s important to determine if there’s an underlying fracture or ligament damage that requires medical attention.

Foot Pain or Something More: When to Seek Help

We all experience foot discomfort from time to time, but how can you tell the difference between general soreness and a condition that needs a podiatrist’s expertise? Dr. Winkleman breaks down three of the most common foot conditions and how to recognize them:

Plantar Fasciitis

“This is one of the most common causes of heel pain,” explains Dr. Winkleman. “It’s an inflammation of the thick band of tissue (plantar fascia) that connects your heel to the front of the foot.”

• Symptoms: Sharp, stabbing pain, especially with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest.
• Key Difference from Soreness: Unlike general foot fatigue, plantar fasciitis pain is persistent, often focused in the heel or arch, with soreness improving with movement.

Tendinitis

Tendinitis refers to inflammation of a tendon, such as the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. “Pain or swelling in the back of the heel, especially after exercise, can indicate Achilles tendinitis,” says Dr. Winkleman.

• Symptoms: Stiffness, discomfort that worsens with exercise or activity, and localized swelling.
• Key Difference from Soreness: Tendinitis pain tends to worsen with continued movement or repetitive stress with general soreness improving with rest.

Stress Fractures

“Unlike full fractures, stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bone that develop due to repetitive stress or overuse ,” Dr. Winkleman notes. These are common in runners, athletes, and individuals who have increased activity levels.

• Symptoms: Gradual onset of pain that worsens with activity, tenderness over a specific area, and swelling.
• Key Difference from Soreness: Unlike general soreness, stress fracture pain does not improve significantly with rest and the pain often gets worse with continued activity.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Ignoring foot pain can lead to more serious complications. Here’s why seeking help sooner rather than later is key:

• Reduces Chronic Pain: Catching foot issues early allows for more conservative treatment, which can help resolve the issue before it becomes a recurring problem.
• Prevents Worsening Injuries: Minor foot pain can develop into serious conditions if left untreated.
• Speeds Up Recovery: Early treatment means less downtime and a faster return to normal activities.
• Avoids Compensatory Injuries: “Some foot pain deformities can cause permanent structural damage to the foot,” Dr. Winkleman warns. Proper treatment minimizes this risk.
• Decreased Need for Invasive Surgery: Many foot and ankle conditions can be managed non-surgically if diagnosed early.
• Promotes Lifelong Foot Health: Simple changes such as wearing supportive shoes, doing strengthening exercises, and maintaining a healthy weight can make a big difference.

“Be proactive. If you’re experiencing persistent swelling, bruising, or pain that doesn’t go away, don’t ignore it,” Dr. Winkleman advises. “Seeing a podiatrist early can help prevent complications and keep you on your feet pain-free.”

Healthy feet are essential for your overall well-being. Recognize the signs of foot problems early and consult your podiatrist if pain disrupts your daily routine.