Foot Pain After Falling On Ice? Here's What Might Be Wrong

29 December 2017
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It's no secret that winter weather makes it difficult to navigate your surroundings, so it's not uncommon to slip and fall on a patch of ice. You may initially brush off your injury as a minor mishap, but an ice-related fall can do some major damage to your body. Approximately 20% of falls that occur among men and women over the age of 65 result in serious injuries, and falls can create medical issues for people of all ages. If your foot aches, itches, or tingles after a fall, review the common issues below to see if you recognize any symptoms.

Sprain/Strain

Does your foot hurt when you stretch or walk on it? Before you assume it's broken, consider that you might have a sprain or a strain. Here are some common symptoms linked to sprains and strains of the feet:

  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Pain on or around the arch of the foot
  • Discomfort during physical activities
  • Difficulty bearing weight on your foot

If you are experiencing these symptoms, you may need minor treatment, such as a bandage wrapped around your foot, or long-term care, such as physical therapy. Some sprains and strains heal without medical intervention, but that's not always the case. It's wise to discuss foot injuries with a doctor who specializes in podiatry.

Bone Fracture 

A bone fracture is generally more serious than a sprain or a strain, but it shares many of the same symptoms. In addition to the symptoms listed above, you may notice the following issues after fracturing your foot:

  • Throbbing pain
  • Discomfort that worsens with movement
  • Visible deformity, such as a protruding bone
  • Tenderness when you touch your foot or place it on a pillow or furniture

You may need surgery to recover from a bone fracture, but some patients heal without undergoing a procedure. Talk to a medical professional to determine how to treat your fractured foot.

Nerve Damage

Sometimes your foot may feel weird even though it doesn't hurt or look different. If you're nodding your head in agreement, review these symptoms to learn whether you might have nerve damage in your foot:

  • Itching
  • Tingling
  • Paralysis or a feeling that your foot has fallen asleep
  • Mild tremors
  • A feeling of heaviness
  • An unexplained sensation of heat or coldness

These symptoms may occur in the foot, ankle, or calf. They are associated with nerve-related conditions, but they may also occur if you knock your lower back out of alignment. It's difficult to assess these symptoms on your own, so ask a doctor to evaluate the nerves in your feet and legs if issues persist.

Do any of the issues above seem similar to what you're experiencing? Visit a podiatrist as soon as possible to discuss your symptoms and establish a treatment plan for your foot injury.