Foot Pain Specialist

Philip Messenger, DPM, PLLC -  - Podiatrist

West Side Foot Care

Philip Messenger, DPM, PLLC

Podiatrist located in Upper West Side, New York, NY

With your busy schedule and daily routine, you probably don’t think twice about doing anything special to care for your feet — until they cause pain. If you have foot pain, even if it seems minor, schedule an evaluation with Philip Messenger, DPM, PLLC, of West Side Foot Care on New York City’s Upper West Side, right away. As a board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Messenger provides only the latest and most advanced diagnostic and treatment solutions for foot pain. Call the office or schedule an appointment online to find the proper treatment to manage your foot pain.

Foot Pain Q & A

Each foot contains dozens of tiny bones, connective tissues, and muscles. While they all work together to help you get around, one wrong move and you can easily damage any of your foot’s components. You can even have chronic conditions or inherited issues that cause your foot pain.

While the only way to know for sure what’s causing your foot pain is to have a thorough evaluation, some of the most likely culprits include:

  • Achilles tendinitis 
  • Plantar fasciitis 
  • Bone and heel spurs
  • Arthritis and gout
  • Bunions or hammertoes
  • Diabetic neuropathy
  • Fractures, including stress fractures

It isn’t just the bones and connective tissues inside your foot that can lead to foot pain, either. Your foot discomfort can also stem from a topical issue such as plantar warts, an ingrown toenail, or athlete’s foot. 

When should I see a doctor for foot pain?

Because it’s nearly impossible to stay off your feet for days to give them a chance to heal, your foot pain is likely only going to get worse with each step you take. Dr. Messenger wants you to come by West Side Foot Care as soon as your foot pain starts, so he can work to prevent your pain from progressing. It’s particularly important to schedule an exam if your foot pain is:

  • Keeping you from work
  • Getting worse each day
  • Associated with swelling or tenderness

You should also see Dr. Messenger right away if your foot pain occurs after an injury, accident, or trauma, just in case you have a broken bone. 

How is foot pain treated?

Before designing your treatment plan, Dr. Messenger thoroughly evaluates you and talks with you about the symptoms you’re experiencing. He may also take X-ray images right in the office. Once Dr. Messenger understands why you have foot pain, your treatment plan can include:

  • Physical therapy 
  • Custom designed orthotic inserts
  • Corticosteroid injections
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Bracing, casting, splinting, or taping
  • Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT)

While surgery is almost always a last resort for treating foot pain, at times it’s the best solution. As a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon, Dr. Messenger uses modern techniques to repair broken bones, reconstruct damaged soft tissues, or remove damaged tissues. Your foot surgery is tailored to your specific needs, no matter how complex your condition may be. 

To find the cause of your foot pain and start your treatment, call the office at West Side Foot Care or schedule an appointment online.