The diagnosis begins with the health care practitioner taking a
history of how the injury occurred. The mechanism of injury will
give clues as to what type of injury may exist and importantly,
what other associated injuries may also be potentially present.
It is helpful to know how much time has passed from when the
injury occurred to when the patient presents for care. Past
medical history is important; those with diabetes are at greater
risk for infection with foot injuries. - Inspection of the foot
for swelling, bruising, deformities, and open wounds. -
Palpation, which allows the health care practitioner to feel
where the pain is located. This is very helpful if X-rays are
taken, since it allows a more careful inspection of the area
where the tenderness exists. This is particularly important in
children whose bones may not have yet calcified. Fractures may
be easily missed since they occur through cartilage instead of
bone. - Examination of the circulatory system, feeling for
pulses, and a neurologic exam