Got Foot Pain? These 5 Steps Can Help

Bothered by foot pain? You may be inclined to just rest it off, ice your foot, and/or take over-the-counter pain medications. While there’s no harm in trying those, they are not foolproof. It pays to know a number of other things that can quell your foot pain, in case the ones mentioned above can’t provide effective relief.

Here are five simple strategies you can try.

1.) Try foot exercises.

It may seem counterintuitive to move your feet when they’re aching, but foot exercises, such as toe curls, toe stretch, and Achilles stretch, can actually limber up and strengthen your feet, and thus help reduce muscle soreness and pain.

2.) Give your feet a good massage.

Like the rest of your body, your feet can also greatly benefit from a good rubdown. Massaging your feet helps relieve pain as it enhances blood circulation and soothes muscle soreness. It also provides you with the opportunity to check your feet for blisters, grazes, and toenail problems.

3.) Invest in structurally supportive footwear.

Forget the fashion shoes, which can only alter your stride and lead to foot pain. Reserve those for special occasions. Invest in comfortable and structurally supportive footwear. These are highly beneficial, especially if your job keeps you on your feet all day.  

4.) See a podiatrist.

If your foot pain is becoming persistent, you should consider seeing a podiatrist (foot doctor), since it has various potential causes. Your podiatrist can do a thorough assessment to pinpoint the cause and offer effective treatment options. These include prescription anti-inflammatory medications, supportive devices (e.g., foot brace, splint, or cast), custom orthotics, etc.

Custom orthotics can provide comfort when you stand, walk, or run. Custom orthotics also help distribute pressure throughout your feet and realign your joints, thereby helping alleviate your discomforts.

If your foot pain is not alleviated with conservative interventions, your podiatrist may assess your eligibility for foot surgery. The type of surgery you will need will depend on the type of injury or foot condition you have.

5.) Consider losing weight.

Excess weight could be contributing to your foot pain. The heavier you are, the more strain you put on your ankles, heels, and arches.

Losing weight can, therefore, greatly help reduce your foot pain. Your podiatrist can give you dietary and lifestyle recommendations to help you lose weight and lessen the strain on your feet.

Foot Pain Treatment in St. Peters and O’Fallon, Missouri

For effective foot pain treatment in St. Peters and O’Fallon, Missouri, visit us at Advanced Bone and Joint. Our board-certified podiatrist Dr. Anthony Lombardo has earned an excellent reputation for delivering the best patient experience and treatment outcomes. He pursues ongoing education to keep abreast of the latest developments in podiatry, and he delights in educating our patients about the importance of keeping their feet healthy.

To arrange a consultation with Dr. Lombardo, call us at (636) 229-4222 or request an appointment online. We look forward to serving you!