Foot pain is a common condition that affects about one-third of the population at some point in their lives. Some common clauses include:
- Poor footwear: Shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause pressure on the foot and ankle joint, which leads to inflammation and pain.
- Lack of exercise: Inactivity leads to muscle atrophy which can lead to weakened muscles in the feet which increases pressure on the joints leading to inflammation and pain.
- Injury: Foot injuries like sprains and fractures are often caused by something falling on your foot, causing it to twist or turn awkwardly, which leads to inflammation and pain.
- Plantar fasciitis: Inflammation of the tissue on the bottom of your foot, causing pain in the heels, and in some cases, limping.
- Other medical conditions: Can be caused by gout, arthritis, and can be indicative of other health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Common symptoms
- Pain when walking or running
- Itching around the toes
- Itching in the bottom of the foot or heel area
- Redness and swelling in the bottom of the foot or heel area
- Pain that worsens when you put weight on your feet
Common treatment methods
- Rest and elevation: This will help reduce inflammation and swelling in the foot and ankle.
- Heat and massage: Heat can be a powerful treatment for foot ailments, and massage therapy has been found to work wonders on foot pain.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy and exercise help to strengthen your foot muscles and help you recover faster from your foot injuries caused by sprain.
- Bracing or orthotics: These methods can help provide relief from foot pain by providing strong support and limiting movement.
