Foot Pain: When to See a Podiatrist | Foot & Ankle Centers

Healthy feet are the foundation for an active, confident life—yet many people ignore discomfort until pain or stiffness starts to interfere with their day. Our feet carry us through thousands of steps, absorb impact, and help maintain balance and posture with every movement. But because they work so hard, even minor problems can quickly worsen if left untreated.

Why Foot Pain Shouldn’t Be Ignored

Your feet are complex, high-performance structures that support your entire body with every step—absorbing impact, maintaining balance, and enabling movement. When functioning properly, they keep you steady and pain-free. But strain from poor footwear, overuse, or underlying conditions can disrupt alignment, leading to pain that affects your ankles, knees, hips, or back.

Many people try to push through discomfort, but persistent pain is your body’s warning sign. Ignoring it can turn minor irritation into chronic inflammation, stiffness, or mobility issues that are harder to treat later.

At Foot & Ankle Centers, podiatrists Dr. Tavakoli, Dr. Knapp, and Dr. Treleven emphasize that even mild foot pain shouldn’t be overlooked. With locations in Frisco, Little Elm, and McKinney, they offer expert diagnosis and treatment for conditions like heel pain, tendon injuries, arthritis, and diabetic foot concerns—helping patients stay active and pain-free through prevention and early care.

Common Foot Pain Warning Signs

Recognizing early symptoms can help you take action before a small issue becomes a bigger problem. Persistent pain that doesn’t improve with rest or changes in footwear is one of the most important signs not to overlook.

Here are key warning signs that warrant a closer look:

• Persistent pain that doesn’t improve with rest or simple home remedies

• Swelling, redness, or warmth that may signal inflammation or infection

• Changes in nail or skin appearance, including thickened, discolored nails or cracking skin

• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations, which can indicate nerve irritation or circulation problems

Even mild foot pain shouldn’t be ignored. Getting evaluated early allows your podiatrist to identify the cause, begin treatment promptly, and help you return to your normal activities faster.

Possible Causes of Foot Pain

Foot pain can stem from a variety of causes, ranging from overuse to structural imbalances or medical conditions. Some of the most common include:

• Plantar fasciitis – inflammation of the band of tissue that supports your arch, often causing sharp heel pain in the morning.

• Achilles tendonitis – tightness or inflammation in the tendon that connects the calf to the heel, common in runners or people who stand for long hours.

• Arthritis – joint inflammation that leads to stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility.

• Neuropathy – nerve-related pain, tingling, or burning, often linked to diabetes or circulation issues.

• Stress fractures – tiny bone cracks caused by repetitive impact, particularly in athletes or people with sudden increases in activity.

At Foot & Ankle Centers, our team uses advanced diagnostics to identify the precise cause of your discomfort, creating personalized treatment plans for lasting relief. Each of our Frisco, Little Elm, and McKinney locations offer and in-house extremity MRI, providing detailed imaging that allows for faster, more accurate diagnosis and treatment.

How a Podiatrist Can Help

Foot pain doesn’t always require surgery. Many issues improve with a personalized care plan that includes supportive footwear, custom orthotics, stretching, and activity adjustments.

At Foot & Ankle Centers, our podiatrists diagnose and treat everything from heel pain and sports injuries to diabetic foot and circulation issues. Their expert, prevention-focused care helps patients maintain strength, flexibility, and comfort.

During your visit, your podiatrist will assess your feet, gait, and footwear to recommend treatments suited to your lifestyle—ensuring safe, effective recovery and lasting relief.

Preventing Foot Pain Before It Starts

The best treatment is prevention. To keep your feet healthy and pain-free:

• Stretch daily to maintain flexibility in your calves, arches, and ankles.

• Wear shoes that fit properly and support your arches—avoid worn-out sneakers or unsupportive flats.

• Replace athletic shoes regularly, especially if you walk or run frequently.

• Listen to your body. If discomfort lingers, don’t wait—schedule an exam.

Addressing problems early helps avoid chronic pain and maintain long-term mobility.

Take the Next Step Toward Relief

Your feet work hard for you every day—don’t ignore their warning signs. Early evaluation by a podiatrist can prevent complications, restore comfort, and keep you moving confidently.

If you’re experiencing persistent foot pain, swelling, redness, or numbness, schedule a visit with the specialists at Foot & Ankle Centers in Frisco, Little Elm, or McKinney. Dr. Tavakoli, Dr. Knapp, and Dr. Treleven provide expert, patient-centered care that ensures you receive the right diagnosis and treatment to keep your feet healthy and pain-free.