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Diagnosis of Foot Pain

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If you have foot pain or suspect that a bone in your toe or foot has been broken, call your doctor. You may be able to walk even if a foot bone has been fractured, particularly if it is a chipped bone or a toe fracture.

Diagnosis of foot pain may include the following:

Initial Evaluation—Your doctor will review your medical history. You will be asked questions about your foot pain, daily activities, and any present or prior injuries.

Physical Exam—Your doctor will examine your feet. Many foot problems are visible during an exam.

X-rays—You may have x-rays of your foot. X-rays can identify problems, such as arthritis, bone spurs, fractures, bone tumors, and metallic foreign bodies.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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References

  • Foot care. American Diabetes Association website. Available at: http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/complications/foot-complications/foot-care.html. Accessed December 28, 2012.

  • Foot care. National Institute on Aging website. Available at: http://www.nia.nih.gov/health/publication/foot-care. Updated April 18, 2012. Accessed December 28, 2012.

  • Foot care 101. American Podiatric Medical Association site. Available at: http://www.apma.org/files/FileDownloads/myFEETFootCare101.pdf. Accessed December 28, 2012.

  • Foot care basics: preventing and treating common foot conditions. Harvard Medical School website. Available at: http://www.health.harvard.edu/special%5Fhealth%5Freports/Foot%5FCare%5FBasics. Accessed December 28, 2012.

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