OpenHealth Q&A

Visited the Podiatrist for Foot Pain Advice and Left with a Prescription for Physical Therapy

Greetings, everyone! I’m a 30-year-old female, standing 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 215 pounds. Today, I consulted with a podiatrist seeking guidance on handling foot discomfort I've been experiencing at work. As a teacher, I commute on foot, and since the school year commenced, my feet have been in a great deal of pain. I’ve tried various shoe options, but even those that seem fine tend to wear out rather quickly. The ache is persistent, somewhat dull, and correlates with irritation in my plantar fascia, although it typically subsides after a few hours of rest. The discomfort particularly intensifies on days when I spend a lot of time standing at the board. I wanted to talk to a specialist not only for advice but possibly an examination, as I’m tired of purchasing improper footwear and insoles. To his credit, the podiatrist provided me with some insoles and mentioned that my foot could be cast for custom orthotics, pending insurance approval (he could only confirm that on Monday). Interestingly, he didn’t suggest any specific shoe brands but casually mentioned that some people prefer Hokas, followed by an odd question about my beach plans. I had clearly stated that my main concern was work-related foot pain; the beach wasn’t on my mind at all. It felt as though he wasn’t fully attentive to my concerns. I brought up a past instance where my mother suffered from plantar fasciitis, and he quickly jumped to proposing injections, which I turned down. He then informed me that I would also require six weeks of physical therapy—which he described as "painful at the start"—and would need to get X-rays. Despite my explanation that I reside in the city (while he practiced in the suburbs), he insisted that I should use the facilities he recommended in the suburbs, hinting that this was the preferable option. It felt as if he was vying for a long-term patient without adequately explaining why my seemingly minor ache necessitated such an extensive treatment plan. I felt pressured into scheduling a follow-up appointment a month later after I finish physical therapy, even though I was hesitant about proceeding with it before trying new shoes or inserts. Am I overreacting and possibly in need of more serious treatment than I anticipated, or was this podiatrist employing high-pressure sales tactics? I left feeling quite unsettled. While I don’t usually think of myself as someone who believes they know more than professionals based on online research, it was disheartening to feel unheard and as though I was being sold something. What should my next steps be?

Answers (1)

9/7/2025, 1:50:42 AM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you're feeling frustrated and uncertain about the treatment plan proposed by your podiatrist for your foot pain. You deserve to feel heard and to have a treatment approach that aligns with your needs. It’s common to have concerns about recommendations that seem extensive or unclear.

Summary of Key Points:

1. Your foot pain may be related to plantar fasciitis, which often requires a multifaceted approach to treatment.
2. It’s essential to ensure you feel comfortable and informed about any recommended treatments, including physical therapy and the use of orthotics.
3. Consider alternative options and prioritizing what makes you feel secure in managing your condition.

Explanation:

Plantar fasciitis commonly causes pain on the bottom of the foot, particularly during activities that involve prolonged standing or walking. Treatment typically involves:

• Proper footwear and possibly customized orthotics.
• Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.
• Gradual activity modifications to reduce stress on the plantar fascia.

Your concerns about the podiatrist's focus and the treatment suggestions are valid. It's important that your healthcare providers listen to your specific needs and explain why they recommend certain treatments.

Next Steps:

1. Reflect on Your Priorities: Take a moment to consider what you are most comfortable with moving forward. Is it trying new shoes/inserts, or are you open to pursuing the physical therapy and orthotics?

2. Research Footwear Options: Look for supportive footwear designed for people who stand for long periods. Brands like Hoka are designed for comfort, but it’s worthwhile to try on different brands to see what feels best. Consider shoes with:

   • Good arch support
   • Cushioning
   • A wide toe box

3. Consultation for Second Opinion: If you're uncertain about the proposed physical therapy or injections, seeking a second opinion from another podiatrist may help clarify your options and confirm whether the suggested treatments are appropriate.

4. Gradually Increase Activity: If your pain improves with rest, consider gradually increasing your standing time and monitor how it feels.

5. Keep a Pain Journal: Document when the pain intensifies and any changes when trying new shoes or inserts. This information could be very useful for a follow-up appointment if you decide to pursue one.

You know your body best, and exploring alternate options or getting a second opinion could provide clarity and help create a treatment plan that feels right for you. Your comfort and health are paramount, so don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself during this process.