The Importance of Disease Screenings for Foot, Ankle, and Lower Leg Health

While the symptoms of some diseases may not be as sudden or dramatic as those caused by fractures or injuries, many medical conditions can significantly impact the health of your feet, ankles, and lower legs. Some conditions are localized to these areas, while others—like diabetes—can lead to complications such as diabetic neuropathy, even though they originate elsewhere in the body.

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Why Screenings Matter

Early detection is key. Identifying a disease or disorder in its early stages often leads to more effective treatment and can help prevent serious complications. If you experience symptoms or discomfort in your feet or legs, it’s important to undergo a screening. Many conditions, such as arthritis or peripheral arterial disease, can be diagnosed during a routine check-up with your doctor.

Common Diseases and Disorders Affecting the Feet, Ankles, and Lower Legs

There are numerous conditions that can directly or indirectly affect the lower extremities. Some are localized to the feet and ankles, while others are systemic and manifest symptoms in these areas. These include:

  • Arthritis
  • Cancer
  • Diabetes
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Freiberg’s Disease
  • Gout
  • Kaposi’s Sarcoma
  • Kohler’s Disease
  • Maffucci’s Syndrome
  • Ollier’s Disease
  • Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
  • Raynaud’s Disease
  • Seiver’s Disease
  • Sever’s Disease

Overview of Screening Methods

Not every disease has a specific test, and some, like Freiberg’s Disease, are often discovered incidentally through x-rays. However, many conditions can be identified through targeted screenings:

  • Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI): A non-invasive test done in your doctor’s office to diagnose peripheral artery disease.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis Screening: Includes medical history, lab work, x-rays, physical exams, and ruling out other conditions like Lyme disease or osteoarthritis.
  • Diabetes Testing: Fasting plasma glucose, A1C (glycated hemoglobin), and insulin resistance tests are commonly used. Since diabetic neuropathy can damage foot nerves, it’s vital to inform your podiatrist if you have diabetes.
  • Gout Screening: Blood tests and joint fluid analysis help diagnose gout.
  • Fibromyalgia Diagnosis: Often a diagnosis of exclusion, fibromyalgia requires ruling out other conditions using imaging, lab tests, and nerve studies.

Other disorders may become apparent during physical exams when symptoms are present.

When to See a Doctor

If you’re experiencing pain, discomfort, or changes in your feet, ankles, or lower legs, don’t ignore it. Talk to your doctor about a screening to determine the cause and get the right treatment plan.