Skip to main content

Foot Pain Specialist

Mark Co, DPM -  - Podiatrist

Mark Co, DPM

Podiatrist located in Duboce Triangle, San Francisco, CA

Foot pain is a common cause of disability, and there are many issues that can contribute to it. At his practice in the Duboce Triangle neighborhood of San Francisco, CA, Dr. Mark Co helps patients understand the cause of their foot pain and provides the most appropriate care for fast and long-lasting relief.

Foot Pain Q & A

What causes foot pain?

Our feet are amazingly complex, containing dozens of bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, and other structures, all of which must work together to provide strength and flexibility when walking, running, and even just standing still. And they have to perform all these functions while supporting the entire weight of the body. Taking all these considerations into account, it's no wonder foot pain is such a common complaint among men and women of all ages. Foot pain can be caused by many issues and involve different parts of the feet. Some of the most common causes of pain include:

  • bunions
  • hammertoes
  • corns and calluses
  • plantar fasciitis
  • bursitis
  • warts
  • ingrown toenails
  • bone spurs
  • tendonitis
  • neuromas, nerve compressions, and other nerve-related issues
  • arthritis
  • diabetes
  • fractures

Injuries can occur as a result of traumatic events such as car accidents and slip-and-fall accidents, or as a result of day-to-day activities or the aging process.

How is foot pain diagnosed?

Foot pain diagnosis begins with a complete medical history and a review of the symptoms, followed by a visual and “hands-on” physical examination of the foot. Both passive and active motions may be used to isolate the area of the foot that's causing painful symptoms, and diagnostic imaging may also be used, especially if a fracture is suspected.

How is foot pain treated?

Today, there are as many treatments for foot pain as there are causes – actually, more. Advances in diagnosis and treatment have enabled patients to enjoy a faster recovery and more complete and long-lasting relief of pain and other symptoms for improved overall quality of life. Treatment options may include injections to relieve pain and inflammation, therapeutic exercises to restore range of motion, custom orthotics to provide better support and relieve uneven pressures on the feet, in-office procedures for issues like ingrown toenails and corns or calluses, and minor surgical procedures to correct more complex issues. Casting and splinting may also be used either alone or following surgery to promote speedier healing. At our practice, treatment plans are completely customized to the specific needs of the patient for fast relief and superior long-term outcomes.

Insurance Providers

We accept Medicare and most PPO insurance plans. For questions about insurance, please contact the office.

Aetna
Blue Cross Blue Shield
Brown & Toland
Cigna
Hill Physicians Medical Group
Humana
Medicare
UnitedHealthcare