When to See a Podiatrist for Knee or Leg Discomfort

Your Feet Are the Foundation of Movement

Your feet carry you everywhere. They absorb shock, keep you balanced, and propel you forward. If something’s off with your feet, it can ripple upward. Misaligned feet, flat arches, or improper walking patterns can stress your knees and legs. A consultation with one of our Norwest Podiatry experts will assess how your feet function and how they might be contributing to your pain.

Your body is like a chain. If one link, your feet, is out of alignment, the whole chain suffers. Pain in your knees or legs could be a sign that your feet need attention. Don’t ignore it.

Common Foot-Related Causes of Knee or Leg Pain

Several foot issues can trigger discomfort higher up. Here are a few culprits:

• Flat Feet or High Arches Flat feet or overly high arches change how your body distributes weight. This can strain your knees or shins. Over time, you might feel aching or stiffness. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot structure and suggest solutions like custom orthotics.
• Overpronation or Supination Overpronation (rolling your feet inward) or supination (rolling outward) throws off your gait. This misalignment stresses your knees and legs. A Podiatrist can spot these patterns and recommend corrective measures.
• Plantar Fasciitis This painful heel condition doesn’t just stay in your foot. The inflammation can alter how you walk, putting extra pressure on your knees or calves. A Podiatrist can treat the root cause and ease the chain reaction.
• Improper Footwear Worn-out shoes or ones that don’t fit your foot type can wreak havoc. They might not support your arches or cushion your steps properly. This can lead to knee or leg discomfort. A Podiatrist can guide you toward better footwear choices.

Signs It’s Time to See a Podiatrist

Not every ache requires a specialist. But certain signs suggest it’s time to get professional help. Here’s what to watch for:

• Persistent Pain: If knee or leg pain lasts more than a week, don’t brush it off. Ongoing discomfort signals something deeper.
• Pain After Activity: Does walking, running, or standing make your knees or legs hurt? Your feet might be the issue.
• Swelling or Stiffness: Swollen knees or tight calves could point to foot-related problems.
• Uneven Shoe Wear: Check your shoes. Uneven wear patterns hint at gait issues that a Podiatrist can address.
• Foot Pain Alongside Knee or Leg Issues: If your feet hurt along with your knees or legs, it’s a clear sign to see a specialist.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Unbearable

It’s tempting to push through pain. You might think, “It’s not that bad,” or “It’ll go away.” But waiting can make things worse. Small issues can turn into chronic problems if left unchecked. A Podiatrist can catch issues early and prevent bigger complications.

For example, untreated flat feet can lead to knee
arthritis over time. Overpronation might cause shin splints or even stress fractures. Seeing a Podiatrist early can stop these issues from snowballing.

When to Seek Immediate Care

Some situations call for urgent attention. If you have sudden, severe pain in your knee or leg, especially after an injury, see a Podiatrist right away. Swelling, redness, or warmth could signal an infection or serious condition. Don’t delay if you can’t bear weight on your leg or if the pain disrupts your daily life.

Taking the Next Step

Knee or leg discomfort doesn’t have to control your life. A Podiatrist can uncover whether your feet are the hidden cause. They’ll work with you to create a plan that gets you moving comfortably again. Be it custom orthotics, better shoes, or targeted measurements, they have the tools to help.

If you’re dealing with ongoing pain or noticing any of the signs mentioned, don’t wait. Book an appointment with a Podiatrist. Take that first step toward pain-free movement today.