Foot pain is common, but your feet shouldn't really hurt all the time. Foot pain can cause you to be miserable, and it could even make it difficult for you to work. Painful feet could be an indication you need to see a foot specialist for a diagnosis and treatment. Here are some other signs you may need to see a foot specialist.

1. Your Shoes Don't Wear Down Evenly

If you notice your shoes always wear down on the outside or inside of the sole, you may have a gait problem a foot specialist can help with. When you walk on the outside or inside of your feet, your ankles have a tendency to roll. This might cause foot and ankle pain when you're on your feet all day.

Even if your condition doesn't cause foot pain, your abnormal gait might cause back or hip pain, so it's worth having your gait checked by a foot specialist who might recommend orthotics to correct your condition.

2. If Your Feet Always Hurt When You Run

If you've tried to take up running but always have to quit due to foot pain, you might need advice or treatment from a foot specialist. You might be running too far too fast, and need to slow down your training. You might need orthotics or special shoes to compensate for a gait or foot abnormality.

You probably shouldn't push through pain and keep on running. Instead, let a podiatrist evaluate the way you run and the shoes you wear to see if you have a foot condition that's aggravated by repetitive running motions.

3. Your Feet Feel Numb

If you have odd sensations in your feet, such as burning, numbness, or cold feet, let a foot specialist know. Those could be signs of diabetic changes in your feet or symptoms of some other disease. Numbness could also be a sign of damage to your feet your podiatrist should know about.

A podiatrist can perform tests to determine how much sensation you've lost in your feet. They may then monitor your condition or provide treatment that can help.

4. You Have An Injury

If you've twisted an ankle or stubbed your toe and you have a lot of pain, you may not be sure if you have a serious injury or not. It's best to be safe and see a foot specialist when you have an injury that's obviously not mild and something you can manage at home. If you have severe pain, swelling, and bruising, you may need medical attention for a quick recovery and healing so you don't end up with chronic pain.