re: OT orthopedic surgeons. Heel/ankle question

If you have a primary care physician and are still having difficulty weight bearing, see them tomorrow. They can order an x-ray and many foot fractures can be safely watched in as little as a supportive shoe. That said, you could also have one that requires a boot, splint, or even a cast. The latter ones often should also have an orthopedic surgeon evaluate them.

If you do not have a primary care physical, an urgent care will usually have on site x-ray, which would be beneficial in your case. It also works hurt to head here tonight and to your PCP or Ortho in the morning, but they're typically a bit more expensive than if you were established somewhere.


But most importantly, ELEVATE the injured extremity above your heart tonight. It's an awfully goofy position, but it's going to save you so much pain.
If weight bearing hurts, stop bearing weight until you've been evaluated. If you do have access to crutches, it's OK to use them until you're told you don't need them. If there is a fracture, sometimes "walking it off" can turn a simple issue into a much more serious one.


And lastly, use tylenol (acetaminophen) but don't exceed 3000mg from all sources
AND
one NSAID. If you don't follow the label, please don't exceed 800mg every 8 hours with ibuprofen or 440mg every 12 hours with ibuprofen. I know it probably hurts, but more than this is unsafe for your kidney and stomach. Elevation and ice are your key to needing less medicine. More just isn't safe.