The feet, being one of the most commonly used parts of the body, are at higher risk of developing conditions and problems. It is subjected to constant use, which is why wear and tear is bound to occur. However, there are some types of foot problems that can develop not because of usual wear and tear, but because of trauma, injuries, and other diseases. It is important that foot problems, as soon as they arise, are diagnosed immediately in order to determine the cause. To help you out, this article is dedicated to providing you with information on how foot problems are diagnosed.
Most Common Types of Foot Problems and How they are Diagnosed
As mentioned above, there are a lot of different problems that affect the foot/feet. It is important to know more about these foot problems in order for a correct diagnosis to be achieved. It is also crucial that you do not rely on your own diagnosis. You should still seek medical assistance especially if the foot problem you are suffering from is already severe and affects your life. Early diagnosis is also critical, since this can potentially help prevent further damage.
One of the most important reasons as to why you should have basic knowledge on how foot problems are diagnosed is because some of them are diagnosed through various means. Here are some of the most common health issues that affect the feet and how they are diagnosed.
• Arthritis
– The first step in diagnosing this condition is a consultation with a doctor. The doctor then reviews the medical history of the patient as well as the symptoms he/she is experiencing. The joints will be examined thoroughly for any signs of deformity or inflammation. In many cases, x-rays, blood, joint, and fluid tests are also included.
• Foot Pain
– Foot pain is one of the leading causes of visits to the physicians. Its diagnosis includes gauging the severity of the pain by using the 4 grades of pain chart as well as the doctor asking how and when the pain began. The foot/feet will be visually and physically examined while at rest, and will also be tested with non-weight-bearing and weight-bearing movement. Inspection of the foot and arch, examination of the foot muscles, testing of the foot nerves, as well as a bone scan, an MRI, or an x-ray are also parts of the diagnosis.
• Sprains and Strains
– The most common methods that doctors use to diagnose sprains and strains are medical and physical examination. Undergoing x-rays as well as CT and MRI scans are also commonly advised by doctors in order to determine that the patient is only suffering from sprains and strains and not broken bones.
• Bone Spurs
– Bone spurs are diagnosed through radiologic testing, including x-rays, CTI scans, MRI scans, myelograms, and ultrasound imaging.
• Bone Fractures
– Determining how the fracture was acquired is the first step in diagnosing this foot problem. Questions such as why, where, and when the injury occurred will also be asked. Physical examination will then follow, with the injured area being examined thoroughly for any other signs of injuries. These may be in the form of damages to the nerves, the arteries, and the skin. Most bone fractures are also diagnosed with 2 to 3 x-rays.
