Our feet not only carry our entire body weight, but they also absorb the impact of every step we take. So, it's no surprise that many people experience foot pain from time to time. Chronic foot pain, on the other hand, can linger for months or even years, and it can sometimes be difficult to find relief. Fortunately, there are some simple lifestyle changes that can help.
What are the most common causes of foot pain?
There are a number of different things that can cause occasional foot pain, such as shoes that are too tight, overuse or injury. That type of pain usually goes away once the issue is addressed. Foot pain can also result from certain health conditions like arthritis, or structural issues like flat feet or fallen arches.
Foot pain can also come from electrical issues such as tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can cause chronic nerve pain. Tarsal tunnel is similar to carpal tunnel, which affects the hands and is caused by a pinched nerve. Although it is an uncommon cause of foot pain, tarsal tunnel is often underdiagnosed because its symptoms are similar to other foot conditions like plantar fasciitis.
What are the risk factors for chronic foot pain?
Athletes and highly active people often have a high risk of foot pain. People who have suffered injuries like a broken ankle, and especially high-energy trauma injuries like motor vehicle accidents, are also likely to have foot pain as they regain their activity levels.
Certain health conditions, such as rheumatoid and generalized osteoarthritis, can also increase someone's risk of foot pain. This is because the ankle takes the most force of any of the weight-bearing joints in your body, so if you're predisposed to conditions such as these, oftentimes it will show up in your ankles or your feet.
When is foot pain a cause for concern?
Generally, chronic foot pain is pain that lasts for more than a few weeks or keeps returning. It's important to take a careful inventory of what makes the foot hurt and when, as well as what makes it feel better. Some people may have pain that is worse at night while others may have pain that gets worse with activity. Being able to answer these questions can help the doctor determine the cause of the pain.
What lifestyle changes can help manage chronic foot pain?
If you have been dealing with foot pain for a while, it is possible to get relief with some lifestyle modifications. However, before you make any changes, you need to get an accurate diagnosis to make sure the right issues are being addressed. Some pain may be related to specific events or changes in your daily activities. For example, if you've started exercising more as a New Year's resolution and are experiencing foot pain, it might make sense to start at a lower fitness level and increase it as your body gets accustomed to the changes in activity.
Another simple change you can make is finding the proper footwear. Many people wear shoes that are too tight, which can cause pain, so wearing shoes that give the foot more space can help. Orthopedic shoes are specifically designed to support ankle, foot and leg structure. They are beneficial for people who suffer from plantar fasciitis, bunions, flat feet or other conditions that can affect the foot's structure and mechanics.
Many patients also get relief after starting a regular stretching program and physical therapy. Surgery is usually a last resort for foot pain because patients can often manage it with simple lifestyle changes.
Foot pain doesn't have to stop you from living your life. If it gets to a point where it becomes difficult or impossible for you to function, it's important to talk to your doctor to find a solution.
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