Dealing with Different Kinds of Foot Pain

Foot pain can be debilitating and impact quality of life. It can also increase the risk of falls and affect a person’s mood. There are a variety of different ailments and injuries that can cause foot pain, and getting feet back to feeling good so the individual can be happy and active is a top priority.

Anyone at any age can be impacted by foot pain. Speaking with a podiatrist is the best way to treat and diagnose exactly what is causing the discomfort. Below are some common types of foot pain that can occur.

1. Pain in the Ball of the Foot

A variety of different conditions can cause this type of pain to develop. Often, it feels like the individual is stepping on something as they walk, and the pain can be lessened or alleviated by getting off of their feet. The treatment for this pain will depend on the cause, but it may include wearing shoe inserts or getting steroid injections in the foot.

2. Bunions

These are bumps that occur on the side of the foot, often when the big toe shifts out of position and presses against the second toe. However, bunions can also occur when the pinky toe shifts out of position. This causes stress on the joint and ligaments and pain for the person.

Some ways to reduce or alleviate pain from this ailment include wearing shoes with space so toes can move freely and opting for shoes that have a low heel. Using a shoe insert and applying a topical pain reliever may also help reduce or alleviate bunion pain.

3. Calluses and Corns

These maladies often form when feet rub against the inside of shoes. If they break open or are constantly irritated, it causes pain. Wearing shoes that don’t rub and have enough space for toes to move freely can help reduce discomfort from corns and calluses.

4. Tendonitis

Tendons secure muscle to bone, and they are sturdy and cord-like. With overuse and overstretching, the tendons can become painful. Over time, they can also weaken and tear, which causes further pain.

Treating tendonitis requires applying heat and ice, rest, and anti-inflammatory medicines. Wearing an insert may also help. If symptoms don’t improve and the injury progresses, surgery may be required to correct the problem.

Foot pain can be caused by a variety of different things, and knowing exactly what is causing the pain and discomfort and how to treat it is best determined by an experienced podiatrist such as Sheldon Nadal, D.P.M., in Toronto.