When Should You See a Podiatrist for Foot Pain?

Foot pain is easy to brush off. We walk on our feet all day, so a niggle or ache can feel like part of life. But pain is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong, and the sooner it is looked at, the easier it usually is to treat. If you are wondering when to see a podiatrist in Sidcup, this guide from the team at Sidcup Foot Clinic explains the warning signs, the most common causes of foot pain and what treatment can involve.

Is foot pain ever normal?

A little tiredness after a long day on your feet is common. Pain that is persistent, sharp, getting worse or affecting how you walk is not something you should simply put up with. Left untreated, foot problems can change the way you move and lead to knee, hip and back pain.

Common causes of foot pain

• Heel pain: often linked to plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendon problems, with pain first thing in the morning or after rest.
• Arch pain and flat feet: aching along the inside of the foot or ankle, especially after standing or walking.
• Pain in the ball of the foot: sometimes caused by metatarsalgia or a neuroma, with a burning or “stone in the shoe” feeling.
• Bunions and toe deformities: a bump at the base of the big toe or toes that rub in shoes.
• Corns and callus: hard, thickened skin that becomes painful under pressure.
• Nail problems: such as ingrown toenails or fungal toenails.
• Verrucae: small, sometimes tender growths on the sole of the foot.
• Sports and overuse injuries: strains and stress-related pain from running, walking or work.
• Arthritis and footwear issues: stiff, aching joints or pain caused by poorly fitting shoes.

When to see a podiatrist for foot pain

Consider booking an appointment with a podiatrist if:

• Your foot pain has lasted more than a week or two, or keeps coming back
• Pain makes walking, exercise or work difficult, or wakes you at night
• You notice swelling, redness, warmth or a change in the shape of your foot
• You have numbness, tingling or burning in your feet
• You have corns, calluses, verrucae or nail problems that are painful or not improving
• A cut, blister or sore is slow to heal
• Your child has persistent foot pain or walks with a limp
• You are changing your footwear or activity and want your feet properly assessed

Take extra care if you have diabetes or poor circulation

If you have diabetes, reduced circulation or reduced feeling in your feet, do not wait. Small problems can become serious quickly, so book a check as soon as you notice a change, a sore or an area of pain.

When foot pain needs urgent medical help

Seek urgent medical advice from your GP, NHS 111 or A&E if you have sudden severe pain, cannot put weight on your foot after an injury, see an obvious deformity, have a hot, swollen or painful calf, or have signs of a spreading infection such as red streaks, pus or a fever.

What happens at a podiatry appointment?

At Sidcup Foot Clinic, your podiatrist will start by listening to your story: where the pain is, when it started and what makes it better or worse. They will examine your feet, and where helpful assess how you stand and walk. You will then receive a clear diagnosis and a treatment plan that fits your lifestyle, explained in plain language.

Foot pain treatment in Sidcup

Treatment depends on the cause, but our foot pain treatment in Sidcup can include:

• Footwear advice and practical changes to ease pressure
• Custom or off-the-shelf orthotic insoles to support and realign your feet
• Biomechanical assessment to find the root cause of recurring pain
• Exercises and stretches to relieve strain and build strength
• Nail and skin care for corns, callus and thickened nails
• Verruca treatment
• Advice on when to see your GP or a specialist if further investigation is needed

You can see everything we offer on our services page.

Podiatrist or chiropodist in Sidcup: is there a difference?

You may see both terms used. Podiatrist is the modern name for the profession, while chiropodist is the older and still widely used term. Both are protected titles in the UK, which means the practitioner must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council. Whether you search for a podiatrist or a chiropodist in Sidcup, our specialist team is here to help. For further foot health information, visit the Institute of Chiropody and Podiatry.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a GP referral to see a podiatrist?

You do not usually need a referral to see a private podiatrist. You can book directly with us online or by phone.

Can foot pain go away on its own?

Mild aches after unusual activity may settle with rest. Pain that lasts, returns or affects your walking should be assessed, because treating the cause early often prevents longer-term problems.

Do you offer home visits?

Yes. If getting to the clinic is difficult, ask us about our home visit service.

Book a podiatrist in Sidcup

Do not let foot pain slow you down. Our friendly, specialist team is at Dental Haven Building, 1 Elm Parade, Main Road, Sidcup, DA14 6ND. Book online or call us on 020 8302 5259.