Foot Pain

• Pain in the heel, arch, ball of the foot, or toes
• Pain that is worse with standing, walking, or specific activity
• Swelling, bruising, or tenderness in one area
• Difficulty walking or bearing weight
• Numbness, burning, or other changes in sensation
• A change in the shape or appearance of the foot

• Injury, including sprains and fractures
• Foot structure and alignment
• Arthritis and other joint conditions
• Tendon or ligament disorders
• Nerve problems
• Skin and nail conditions, including infection
• Vascular or systemic disease

1. We review your symptoms, activity or injury history, footwear, and medical history.
2. We examine the foot, ankle, and the way you load them along with the surrounding joints and the way you walk.
3. We use X-rays or other testing when the findings make it clinically appropriate.
4. We explain what we found and what the reasonable options are for your situation.

You will see Dr. Kayla Wright, DPM, ABFAS Board Certified, at our Tempe office. New to the practice? Review new-patient information before your visit.

Care generally starts with the least invasive measures that fit your diagnosis and moves further only if it needs to. Which steps apply to you depends on your evaluation — this is a general sequence, not a plan for any individual patient.

1. Evaluation and diagnosis
2. Activity adjustment and home-care guidance
3. Footwear guidance, stretching, or a rehabilitation program
4. Padding, bracing, immobilization, or custom orthotics when indicated
5. In-office procedures when they are appropriate for the diagnosis
6. Other options such as MLS® Laser Therapy or Shockwave Therapy when they fit the problem
7. Surgery in selected cases after an appropriate course of nonsurgical care

Some foot and ankle symptoms should be evaluated promptly rather than watched. Call our office if you notice:

• An injury with difficulty walking or bearing weight
• A change in the shape or appearance of the foot or ankle after a fall or twist
• Redness, warmth, drainage, or signs of infection
• An open sore or wound on the foot, especially with diabetes or circulation concerns
• New numbness, burning, or other changes in sensation
• Pain that keeps getting worse or does not improve with reasonable initial care

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. This website and its appointment tools are not monitored for emergency medical needs.

Can I find out what is causing my foot pain online?

No. A symptom description cannot establish a diagnosis. The examination is what narrows the possibilities, and imaging is added when the findings call for it.

Does foot pain mean I need surgery?

No. Most foot problems are managed without surgery, and nonsurgical care is generally considered first. Surgery is discussed only when it is appropriate for a specific diagnosis.

How long should I wait before calling?

Pain that persists, worsens, or limits walking is a reasonable reason to be evaluated, and so is any foot concern if you have diabetes or circulation problems.

To be seen for foot pain, request an appointment or call 480-831-0700. Our office is at 3231 S Country Club Way, Suite 108, in Tempe — see directions and parking.