Disease Screenings
Early Detection for Better Foot and Leg Health
Identifying Diseases That Affect the Feet, Ankles, and Lower Legs
Many health conditions—whether specific to the feet or systemic diseases—can cause pain, swelling, or mobility problems in your lower extremities. Routine disease screenings play a key role in identifying these issues early, allowing for effective treatment and prevention of complications.
Even conditions that don’t originate in the feet, such as
diabetes or arthritis, can lead to nerve damage, circulation problems, and joint inflammation that impact your overall foot health.
Why Screenings Matter
Early detection allows for better management and often prevents long-term damage. By identifying underlying health issues early, you can reduce pain, preserve mobility, and avoid complications such as ulcers, infections, and deformities.
If you experience persistent pain, swelling, or changes in skin color or sensation, it’s important to schedule a screening.
Conditions That May Affect the Feet and Ankles
Our screenings can help diagnose or monitor a range of conditions, including:
- Arthritis
- Diabetes and Peripheral Neuropathy
- Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
- Gout
- Fibromyalgia
- Raynaud’s Disease
- Freiberg’s and Kohler’s Disease
- Sever’s Disease
- Maffucci’s Syndrome
- Ollier’s Disease
- Kaposi’s Sarcoma
These diseases can affect circulation, nerve function, and bone health—making regular foot evaluations essential, especially for individuals with chronic medical conditions.
Common Screening Tests
Different tests are used depending on your symptoms and medical history. These may include:
- Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI): Measures blood flow to detect peripheral artery disease (PAD).
- Diabetes Testing: Checks blood sugar levels and monitors for neuropathy.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis Screening: Combines lab tests, imaging, and physical exams to confirm inflammation or joint damage.
- Gout Evaluation: Analyzes blood or joint fluid for uric acid levels.
- Fibromyalgia Assessment: May include nerve studies or imaging to rule out other disorders.
Your podiatrist will determine which screenings are most appropriate based on your risk factors and symptoms.
When to Schedule a Screening
You should seek testing if you experience:
- Persistent or unexplained pain in the feet or ankles
- Numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation
- Cold or discolored feet
- Swelling or difficulty walking
Screenings help identify the cause of discomfort and guide treatment before problems worsen.
If you’re concerned about ongoing pain or changes in your feet, contact our office to schedule a medical screening. Early diagnosis can protect your mobility and long-term health.
Start Your Journey to Wellness Today
Talk With Foot and Ankle Specialist Today!
Ready to take the first step towards healthier, pain-free feet? Contact us to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our foot and ankle services. Our dedicated podiatric team is here to provide personalized care and answer any questions you may have about your lower extremity concerns. Reach out today and let us help you achieve optimal foot health and mobility for an active lifestyle.