Foot pain from sciatica occurs when a nerve in the lower back becomes irritated or compressed. The pain travels along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the leg and into the foot. It can affect the ankle or different areas of the foot. Symptoms include burning pain, tingling, and numbness. Some patients also develop muscle weakness that affects balance or makes it harder to lift the front of the foot. The location of the pain depends on which part of the nerve is irritated.
Because sciatica can feel like a foot problem, a careful examination is important. Similar symptoms can result from an injured nerve in the foot and poor circulation or another foot condition. A podiatrist can ask where the pain begins and whether it travels down the leg. The doctor can also test strength, sensation, and reflexes. The way a patient stands and walks can provide further clues. Imaging or nerve tests can help clarify the cause when the examination does not provide enough information. Sudden weakness, loss of bladder control, or numbness around the groin requires immediate medical attention.
A podiatrist can help manage the effects that sciatic nerve pain has on the feet. Custom orthotics can improve foot position and provide better support while walking. A brace can steady the ankle when weakness causes the foot to drag or makes the joint unstable. The podiatrist can also recommend properly fitted shoes that support balance and reduce pressure on painful areas. Regular foot examinations are especially important when numbness makes cuts, blisters, or skin irritation harder to notice. The podiatrist can monitor changes in strength and walking patterns. Surgery is generally reserved for severe cases with serious or worsening nerve problems. If you have foot pain related to sciatica, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Franklin Harry, DPM from Best Foot Forward. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bone Spurs
- Corns
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Ingrown Toenails
- Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
- Flat Feet
- Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
- And more
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Festus and St. Louis, MO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
