When Foot Discoloration is a Concern
The skin on your feet and ankles can have discoloration for many different reasons. You can have your feet immersed in wet clothes for too long, or it could be a severe medical condition not diagnosed yet. When you are experiencing foot discoloration, the best thing to do is get help immediately from your podiatrist. A podiatrist will determine whether you need medical attention.
These Issues Can Cause Foot Discoloration
Ankle sprain or underlying fracture—when you sprain your ankle or even fracture it, it doesn't always show damage. When that happens, you can cause more damage because you are not aware you are hurt. You may assume the pain will go away. However, ignoring these issues can cause numbness and stiffness to occur. You should not overlook these issues. A podiatrist should be your next step.
Rocky Mountain spotted fever--this occurs through bacterial infection transmitted by ticks. There are many symptoms to be aware of, and they include high fever, chills, muscle aches, and restlessness, along with a rash. It starts on your ankles and your wrists before spreading to your feet, and as it gets worse, you may experience vomiting.
Chronic venous insufficiency--this is an issue that occurs when you have a problem with blood flow in your veins. The issue causes clots, thrombosis of the veins, and high blood pressure in your legs and feet. Cramping, itching, weakness, skin sores (like ulcers), and changes in the way your feet look, including discoloration, are all signs. A podiatrist may recommend keeping your legs elevated and getting more exercise. Both options are proven to help the condition from getting exacerbated. In severe cases, you may need compression socks.
To help discover the proper treatment of foot discoloration and the underlying causes, James C. Ricketti, DPM of Hamilton Square, NJ, is a board-certified podiatrist that can heal any foot and ankle injuries, diseases, and deformities while offering you the best care and technologically advanced options. Dr. Ricketti and his staff will have your feet looking and feeling fabulous. Call 609-587-1674 to get help today.