[23F] With right foot pain and swelling post-injury
Patient Description
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on the information you have provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:
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Stress Fracture: Given the pain, swelling, and tenderness in your foot, especially after a recent injury, a stress fracture is a possibility. Stress fractures are small cracks in a bone that often develop from overuse or repetitive activity. They can also occur from a sudden increase in physical activity or an acute injury.
- Typical Treatment: Treatment usually involves rest, avoiding weight-bearing activities, and possibly wearing a brace or cast. In some cases, crutches may be recommended to keep weight off the foot. Healing typically takes 6-8 weeks.
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Sprain or Strain: Since you have a history of twisted ankles, it's possible that you have a sprain or strain. These injuries involve the ligaments and muscles around the foot and ankle and can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight.
- Typical Treatment: Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) are commonly recommended. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help manage pain and swelling. Physical therapy may also be beneficial.
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Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons in your foot could also explain your symptoms. Tendinitis can cause pain and swelling, especially with activity.
- Typical Treatment: Rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications are usually recommended. Stretching and strengthening exercises may also help.
What you can do
While it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan, here are some steps you can take in the meantime:
- Rest: Avoid putting weight on your right foot as much as possible. Use crutches if necessary to keep weight off the injured foot.
- Ice: Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours to reduce swelling and pain.
- Compression: Use an elastic bandage to wrap your foot, but make sure it's not too tight. This can help reduce swelling.
- Elevation: Keep your foot elevated above the level of your heart whenever possible to help reduce swelling.
- Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
- Journal Your Symptoms: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, and share your notes with your healthcare provider. This can help in monitoring your condition and making informed decisions about your care.
What you should look out for
Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Increased Pain or Swelling: If your pain or swelling worsens despite rest and home treatment.
- Inability to Bear Weight: If you are unable to put any weight on your foot.
- Numbness or Tingling: If you develop numbness, tingling, or a loss of sensation in your foot.
- Changes in Skin Color: If you notice any changes in the color of your skin, such as paleness or a bluish tint.
- Fever: If you develop a fever, which could indicate an infection.
Remember, while these tips can help manage your symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
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5 mo ago