Screening for Foot Pain

The purpose of screening is early diagnosis and treatment. Screening tests are usually given to people without current symptoms. They are given to those who may be at high risk for certain diseases or conditions.

There are no screening guidelines for foot pain.

If you have a specific medical condition that may increase your risk of a foot disorder, your doctor may regularly examine your feet. For example, if you have diabetes, you may be at risk for foot ulcers. In extreme cases, you may also be at risk for lower extremity amputations, particularly if you have any loss of sensation, foot deformities, peripheral vascular disease, or prior foot ulcers. Ask your healthcare provider how often you should have your feet examined.

References

Foot care. American Diabetes Association website. Available at: http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/complications/foot-complications/foot-care.html. Accessed March 25, 2013.

Foot care. National Institute on Aging website. Available at: http://www.nia.nih.gov/health/publication/foot-care. Updated April 18, 2012. Accessed March 25, 2013.

Foot care 101. American Podiatric Medical Association site. Available at: http://www.apma.org/files/FileDownloads/myFEETFootCare101.pdf. Accessed March 25, 2013.

Revision Information

Reviewer: Brian Randall, MD
Review Date: 02/2013
Update Date: 03/25/2013

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.