There is an old saying among horsemen, “No foot; no horse.” Because not only horses, but also human beings, rely on their feet to accomplish just about any daily task, this saying could apply to us as well. We use our feet to work, play and accomplish daily chores. We may even take our feet for granted until problems arise.

When foot and ankle problems begin, our productivity is severely impaired. But how do we know when to see a doctor? The easy answer is: as soon as possible. What is a minor problem today may worsen and become chronic, or even disabling, tomorrow.

Foot conditions commonly cause pain in the following areas:

  • The ankle
  • The toenail
  • The heel
  • The bottom of the foot
  • The middle of the foot
  • The toes or the front part of the foot
  • The entire foot, and related structures such as: lower leg, thigh, hip, lower back.


If this pain becomes worse when you exercise, spend long periods on your feet, wear poorly fitting shoes or after a long period of rest, you most likely are suffering from some type of foot or ankle ailment. Seeing a Philadelphia specialist in podiatry should be your first move with any foot or ankle problem. Here is our best advice for deciding what type of help you need.

A regular, scheduled office visit is the first step for most foot and ankle problems. You should schedule an appointment if:

  • The swelling or inflammation doesn’t subside in a day or two.
  • You experience numbness, stinging or burning sensations in your feet or toes.
  • Your feet are pale, white, or blue and cold.
  • Your ankle swells, is stiff, and/or painful first thing in the morning or after some type of exercise.
  • You have a lump or thickening on your foot, toe or ankle.
  • One or more toes are bent oddly.
  • A minor pain in the foot or ankle continues for several weeks.


You should tell your doctor immediately if:

  • You are running a fever over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees Centigrade).
  • You have any type of redness, tenderness and/or warmth in the painful area. These symptoms could indicate an infection.


Finally, you should seek immediate emergency care if:

  • Your foot will not support any weight at all.
  • Your pain and/or swelling are severe.
  • You see a tendon or bone exposed at the surface of the skin.


At Healthmark Foot and Ankle Specialists, your foot health is our primary concern. With over 40 years of combined experience, our doctors and staff provide the best in Philadelphia area foot and ankle care. Call one of our offices as soon as possible if you are experiencing any of the symptoms above.

We can be reached in Media at 610-565-3668 or in Phoenixville at 610-933-8644. We proudly help clients throughout the Tri-State area. Let us help you begin your recovery today.