If your feet hurt during daily activities and they become a major deterrent to take on such activity, you need help. There are many causes of chronic foot pain. However, with the help of an experienced podiatrist, relief is in sight. Here are a few common foot conditions and possible treatments. Please consult your physician before considering any treatments.
A podiatrist may be able to pinpoint the exact problem that is causing your foot and leg pain. Identifying the cause of the pain is the first step towards remediation to get you back on your feet at full speed.
Plantar fasciitis: This problem is characterized by an inflamed tendon in the sole of the foot. If there is significant pain radiating from the heel or ball of the foot, a trip to the podiatrist will help diagnose this problem and set you up with treatment options such as arch support using foot inserts. Some of the causes of plantar fasciitis point to poorly fitting shoes, weight gain or non-supportive footwear.
Treatment: Use of pain relievers that reduce inflammation, along with stretching, icing, physical therapy and orthotics such as arch bandages, support insoles for shoes, ultrasound, steroid injections at the site of the plantar fasciitis are common remedies.
Achilles tendonitis: This foot ailment begins at the Achilles tendon, which is the strongest tendon in the body and has the important task of connecting our lower leg and calf with the heel. Very painful and debilitating, Achilles tendonitis is very serious. There is usually inflammation along with dull to severe pain and is diagnosed through an MRI of the foot and ankle area. If the Achilles ruptures, surgery is involved.
Treatment: Stretching exercises before activities along with strength training and wearing shoes that fit properly with good ankle and arch support help prevent this form of tendonitis. Building the strength of this tendon by following a healthy diet can help prevent Achilles tendonitis.
Arch & heel pain: There are many reasons for different types of foot pain, ranging from nerves to skin abnormalities. Heel pain in particular is usually due to Plantar fasciitis. Another answer may be heel spurs which are growths of bone on the bottom of the heel. Spurs develop due to an abnormal gait due to flat feet or high arches.
Treatment: Surgery, physical therapy, rest, pain relievers, orthotics and heel pads are popular treatments for chronic foot pain.
If you find yourself in constant foot pain when walking or standing for long periods, a trip to the podiatrist is in order. Painful feet can lead to less physical activity that, in turn, can cause other health issues. The source of the problem, once identified, can usually be remedied through simple adjustments to footwear along with exercises to stretch and strengthen tendons and muscles causing the pain. Rid yourself of foot aches and pains with a few simple changes and put the spring back into your step.