Your feet withstand your weight when you are standing, and they help you move from one point to another. You may not notice them until they hurt and your movement is limited. Foot pain is extremely common; it refers to any pain or discomfort in parts of your foot, including toes, heels, arches, and soles. Depending on the cause, foot pain may be mild or severe, and it may be acute or last a long time. Fortunately, there are different treatments for foot pain depending on the cause – from simple remedies like rest and over-the-counter drugs to procedures like Mission Viejo foot and ankle surgery. Read on to learn more about foot pain.
What causes foot pain?
Foot pain can be due to lifestyle choices or common medical issues. For example, one of the common causes of foot pain is wearing ill-fitting shoes. Shoe types such as high-heels also place a lot of pressure on your toes, causing pain. Your feet can also get injured during sporting activities or high-impact exercise.
Various medical conditions are linked with foot pain. Your feet are especially prone to pain caused by arthritis, which can affect any of the 33 joints in your feet. If the pain is in your heel, that might be plantar fasciitis – an inflammation of the thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes.
When should I seek medical attention?
If you regularly experience foot pain, you know its triggers and have tips for managing it. However, you should see your doctor if your pain comes on suddenly and is severe or if your pain is due to a recent injury. You should also talk to your doctor if you can’t place weight on your foot or have a medical condition that interferes with blood flow. Other signs you should see your doctor are if you have other symptoms such as fever and skin discoloration. You also want to see your doctor if there is an open wound in the area causing you pain.
Treatment for foot pain
There are several treatment methods for foot pain; the one your healthcare provider recommends depends on the cause of the pain. Your doctor may suggest trying at-home options if you have mild foot pain. For example, you may need to rest your feet and use crutches so that you don’t place weight on the affected foot. Applying ice to the affected area may also help; do not place ice directly on your skin to avoid damage. Your doctor can also suggest using foot pads to prevent rubbing on the affected area. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers may also minimize your foot pain.
How can I prevent foot pain?
Although foot pain is common, it is not a normal part of life. Wear roomy, comfortable, and well-cushioned shoes to prevent ongoing foot pain. Avoid high-heeled footwear and shows with narrow toe areas. Maintaining a healthy weight is vital since being overweight places extra pressure on your feet, increasing your risk of foot pain.
If your foot pain does not resolve after a week or two of at-home treatments, visit your doctor at Aloha Foot and Ankle Associates.
