Do your feet feel tired and achy regularly or at the end of some days? Foot irritations may present in the form of minor tenderness or swelling, or may have transitioned to the level of pain, which could even restrict your ability to run/walk. Given the demands we place on our feet, it’s easy to imagine how they can become overused or abused.
You might be surprised to learn that there are 24 different bones in the average person’s foot, along with the hundreds of nerve endings. If your foot is injured, or even one of these bones becomes misaligned, a wide variety of symptoms, including pain, swelling and tenderness may result.
More serious conditions are sometimes evident, and you should consult your physician if pain is extreme or becomes persistent. Taking care of your feet is essential to preventing future pain and problems from developing.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a very common cause of foot pain. This condition occurs when the tissue along the arch of the foot becomes inflamed, leading to pain, swelling, tenderness and general discomfort. Plantar fascitis is typically caused by walking or running on your feet for long periods of time, and/or not wearing the correct footwear. People who work on their feet all day are more likely to suffer from plantar fasciitis than workers who sit behind a desk.
If you experience foot pain after wearing a particular type of shoes, you can consider not wearing them. Even if a pair of shoes look comfortable, they may not be the best choice for your feet. Everyone’s feet are shaped differently, and while one pair of shoes may work best for one person, another pair may work better for you. When shopping for a new pair of shoes, take your time to try on several different pairs to see which ones conform to the shape of your feet.
Treating Swollen Feet
An easy and natural approach to dealing with swollen feet is to soak your tootsies in Epsom salts. Doing so every couple of days can decrease swelling and help alleviate the pain, while leaving your feet smooth and soft. Of course, a soothing foot massage can go a long way in helping to decrease symptoms and encourage relaxation. Some massage therapists have specialized training to address particular foot injuries.
In more severe cases, you may choose a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicine, such as aspirin or ibuprofen. These medicine are designed specifically to reduce swelling throughout your body and will help relieve the tender feeling in your feet. Carefully read the label and check in with your doc when needed.
Taking care of your feet is essential to preventing future pain and problems from developing.
Give me a call today to discuss some alternative methods for treating foot pain and discomfort.
