The feet are some of the most complex parts of the body and are composed of many interlocking bones and other elements. This is what makes them so functional, but it can also be the source of many different issues and ailments. If you have recently suffered some type of injury to your feet, take a look at these 3 signs you should get a foot X-ray.
One of the most essential tools for identifying whether or not there is an issue with one’s feet is through a foot X-ray. These X-rays can offer patients and their healthcare providers insight into whatever issues might be at play and are considered an essential tool of podiatry.
What Is a Foot X-ray?
Foot X-rays are a type of X-ray that is applied to the feet to help determine if any broken bones or other serious issues are present in the feet. There are many different types of issues that a foot X-ray can allow a medical professional to perceive. In addition, receiving a timely foot X-ray can assist with preventing serious foot injuries from occurring in the first place.
Feet X-rays can reveal many different issues that might be at hand. Some examples include:
- Dislocated joints
- Cysts
- Cancer
- Bone infections
- Degenerative conditions
- Broken bones
If your healthcare provider approves you for X-ray treatment, you will be referred to a radiologist to receive your imaging work. This should all be provided in-network, depending on your insurance situation.
3 Signs You Should Get a Foot X-Ray
There are several signs that indicate beyond a reasonable doubt that a foot X-ray would be beneficial for a patient. Ignoring these signs can be hazardous to your health and exacerbate any pre-existing injuries at play.
You Have Difficulty Walking
If you have difficulty walking or putting weight on your feet, then there is some chance that you may have a broken bone or a very bad sprain. Any prolonged difficulty with walking should act as an indication that you should receive a foot X-ray.
Doctors point to the “Four Steps Rule” – if you have trouble walking more than four steps, it usually means you have injured yourself and should seek out medical attention.
There Are Obvious Deformations
Another telltale sign that you should have your feet examined and subjected to an X-ray is if there are obviously misshapen or deformed elements of your feet. This usually indicates that some kind of serious break or injury has taken place in the feet. This type of break will usually come paired with difficulty or inability to walk.
You Experience Tenderness in Certain Tendons or Bones
Many physicians point to tenderness or pain in certain tendons or bones in the feet to point to a probability that some kind of serious injury is at play. One example is if you experience tenderness in the navicular bone, which is located on the inside of the feet.
Another example is if a patient experiences tenderness in the 5th metatarsal bone on the outside of the feet. Your physician will examine these elements of your feet and determine if receiving an X-ray is warranted.
What Occurs During a Foot X-Ray?
During a foot X-ray, a radiologic technologist will place an X-ray imaging device up to your foot. This can either be performed in your healthcare provider’s office or the radiology department at a hospital.
You will receive a lead apron to cover your vitals and reproductive organs from the radiation of the machine. Your leg will be placed on a table, and an image will be composed of your bones. All in all, the process should take less than 15 minutes.
Are There Any Risks to Receiving a Foot X-Ray?
Healthy patients are generally not considered at risk when receiving an X-ray of any kind. However, patients who are chronically ill and pregnant women may be at risk from the mild radiation exposure that comes paired with X-ray treatment.
You will be able to discuss with your physician prior to receiving treatment whether or not they think that you are especially at risk from some of the radioactive effects of X-ray treatment. Most individuals who are of sound health will not experience any obstruction to receiving treatment.
The Top Podiatrist in Southern California
Foot and Ankle Concepts, Inc. is fully committed to giving patients the best service available with the aim of repairing and preventing injuries to the feet. If you think you might benefit from such a service, contact us today to set up an appointment to receive an X-ray and ultrasound.
