Which Specialist Should You See for Your Grandfather's Leg Pain?

Which specialty should I see?

Your grandfather (83 years old) has redness and swelling in his left foot, with pain radiating along a tendon to his calf.
This has been ongoing for three months, with increasing frequency of pain.
It hurts when touched, and exposure to hot water also causes pain.
Recently, there has been pus (clear) near the toenail.
Which specialist should he see?

ping'an, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/18

Dr. Gao Qingyun reply Family Medicine

Hello! Please proceed to the general surgery outpatient clinic for evaluation and treatment by a specialist.
Wishing you health and happiness! Sincerely, Dr.
Gao Qingyun, Director of Family Medicine, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/03/18

More Info

When dealing with your grandfather's leg pain, especially considering his age and the symptoms you've described, it is crucial to approach this situation with a comprehensive understanding of potential underlying issues. Given that he is experiencing redness, swelling, and pain along with discharge from the area near his toenail, there are several specialists you might consider consulting.

1. Primary Care Physician (PCP): Start with a visit to his primary care physician. They can conduct a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and a review of his medical history. The PCP can also order necessary tests, such as blood tests or imaging studies, to rule out systemic issues like infections or vascular problems.

2. Podiatrist: Given the specific symptoms around the toenail and the potential for a nail infection (possibly an ingrown toenail or fungal infection), a podiatrist would be an excellent choice. They specialize in foot and ankle conditions and can provide targeted treatment for any nail issues, as well as assess the overall health of his feet.

3. Orthopedic Specialist: If the pain is related to musculoskeletal issues, such as arthritis or tendonitis, an orthopedic specialist may be necessary. They can evaluate the joints, muscles, and bones in the leg to determine if there are any structural problems contributing to the pain.

4. Vascular Specialist: If there is concern about circulation issues, such as peripheral artery disease (PAD) or deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a vascular specialist should be consulted. Symptoms like swelling and pain can sometimes indicate problems with blood flow, which is particularly important to assess in elderly patients.

5. Rheumatologist: If there is suspicion of inflammatory conditions, such as gout or rheumatoid arthritis, a rheumatologist may be appropriate. They specialize in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases that can affect the joints and soft tissues.

6. Infectious Disease Specialist: If the discharge from the toenail is indicative of an infection, and if there are systemic symptoms (like fever or increased redness), an infectious disease specialist may be needed to manage the treatment of any underlying infections effectively.

Additional Considerations:
- Pain Management: Regardless of the specialist you choose, addressing your grandfather's pain is essential. Discuss pain management options with the healthcare provider, which may include medications, physical therapy, or other interventions.

- Comprehensive Assessment: Given your grandfather's age, it's essential to consider a holistic approach to his health. Factors such as medication side effects, nutritional status, and overall mobility should be evaluated, as they can all contribute to his current condition.

- Follow-Up Care: Ensure that there is a plan for follow-up care after the initial consultation. Chronic pain and swelling can often require ongoing management and adjustments to treatment based on how he responds.

In summary, starting with a primary care physician is advisable, who can then refer your grandfather to the appropriate specialist based on the findings. This approach ensures a thorough evaluation and a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to his specific needs.

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