A broken foot and a sprain often have similar symptoms. Both can result in pain and swelling. However, when the foot is broken, the pain is often more intense and occurs suddenly with an injury or trauma such as falling or hitting a hard object. With a broken foot, most people are unable to walk or apply pressure to the foot. If you suspect that your foot is broken, you should seek out a DFW podiatrist near you to help treat your break.
Broken Foot Symptoms
According to our experienced DFW podiatrist, if your foot is broken, you may experience symptoms such as:
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Throbbing pain
- Tenderness
- Visible deformity in the foot
- Snapping sound when injured
- Trouble putting weight on the foot
- Reduced range of motion
- Difficulty walking
- Pain that is present during activity but is reduced with rest
Treatment Options for a Broken Foot
If you have broken foot, it is important to see your DFW podiatrist immediately. If you leave the injury untreated, you can have long-lasting effects or possibly develop an infection. Your foot specialist will examine your foot and order imaging tests such as an X-ray or MRI to confirm if the foot is broken or sprained.
Some common treatment options for a broken foot include:
- Rest
- Over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen to relieve pain and swelling
- Cast, brace, or splint
- Crutches to keep the weight off the broken foot while it heals
- Manipulation of the bones to set them in place
- Surgery to hold the bones together using screws, pins, plates, or rods
Treatment options will vary depending on the injury. Some breaks are stress fractures which are tiny cracks on the bone’s surface while others are more severe. Your podiatrist will determine the best treatment options for your condition. If you are unable to seek immediate attention, elevate your foot, and apply ice. Do not attempt to walk on the foot until you see your doctor.
Consult With a DFW Podiatrist as Soon as Possible
If you are experiencing foot pain or have symptoms of a broken foot such as swelling or bruising, contact our DFW podiatrist at Alliance Foot & Ankle Specialists. To request an appointment in our Grapevine or Keller offices, fill out our convenient contact form online, or call our office.
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