Foot or Ankle Injury: Should You Rest It or See a Specialist?

After a foot or ankle injury, it can be difficult to know whether to rest and monitor the symptoms or make an appointment right away. In this video, Dr. Bryan Van Dyke explains that the decision starts with the severity of the pain and how well you can use the injured foot or ankle.

If the pain is severe enough that you cannot stand or bear weight, prompt evaluation by a specialist is appropriate. A mild ache may reasonably be given a few days of rest, but symptoms that are not improving should be checked. Persistent pain can reflect an injury that needs a more specific diagnosis and treatment plan.

Summit provides specialized foot and ankle care as well as evaluation for sports injuries, trauma, and fractures. Patients can also review Summit's guide to sprained ankles and its broader ankle education resources.

If you cannot bear weight, your symptoms are worsening, or the injury is not improving after rest, contact Summit Orthopaedics in Idaho Falls or call (208) 227-1100.

Chapters

00:00 Should you rest a foot or ankle injury?

00:10 When severe pain needs prompt evaluation

00:22 When a few days of rest may be reasonable

00:31 What to do if symptoms are not improving

Should I rest a foot or ankle injury, or should I see a specialist?

It depends on how much it hurts. If you cannot stand on it, see a specialist right away. If it is a mild ache, giving it a few days of rest is reasonable. If it is not improving, it is time to get it checked.