Foot pain is never natural. Several individuals have been suffering from the discomfort that ranges from minor to severe. Since the feet are the two most mistreated and utilized body parts, you must ensure they are adequately attended to and cared for. The feet are also more prone to injury than any other body area. Therefore spending time on foot care is crucial.
So, what causes foot discomfort, and how can you treat it?
5 Causes of Foot Pain
Here are the top five causes of foot pain and their treatments:
1. Ingrown Nails
An ingrown nail occurs when the sharp edges of the toenail penetrate the toe’s skin, causing excruciating discomfort. Ingrown nails, sometimes called onychocryptosis or unguis incarnatus, lead to pain, inflammation, and sometimes infection.
To treat this ailment, bathe your feet in warm water with Epsom salt, use antibiotic cream, and cover them in a bandage. If the discomfort continues or an infection develops, see a podiatrist who can remove the ingrown section of the nail.
2. Corns and Calluses
Corns and calluses are thickened patches of skin on the feet that may cause discomfort. They are often caused by friction or pressure from improperly fitted shoes. Using correctly fitted shoes and cushioned insoles or pads to decrease pressure on the afflicted region can help minimize these. Over-the-counter therapies, such as salicylic acid patches or lotions, may also help soften and eliminate thickened skin in certain situations.
But suppose the corns or calluses were painful or persistent. In such a case, contacting a podiatrist in a medical facility like Hamilton foot clinic is advisable to securely remove them and provide tips on avoiding them.
3. Bunions
Bunions are a prevalent source of foot discomfort, especially among women. They arise when the big toe joint gets misaligned, resulting in a bony hump on the side of the foot. This might cause pain and make it difficult to wear specific shoes. Wearing comfortable shoes with a large toe box is one treatment option, as is employing orthotics or shoe inserts to disperse pressure and relieve discomfort.
Surgery to straighten the joint and remove the bony bulge may be required in extreme situations. If bunions are causing substantial discomfort or interfering with everyday activities, it is essential to seek medical assistance.
4. Foot and Ankle Osteoarthritis
Foot and ankle osteoarthritis, often known as “wear-and-tear” arthritis, is a disorder that causes pain and stiffness in the joints. It is more frequent in elderly persons, athletes, and those with professions that require prolonged standing. Non-surgical foot and ankle osteoarthritis therapies like physical therapy, medicines, and shoe inserts can help relieve pain and improve mobility. However, surgery may be necessary in severe cases to repair or replace damaged joints.
You contact a full-service foot and ankle clinic or visit their page to learn more treatment options for your specific condition.
5. Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is the swelling of the thick band of tissue, known as a plantar fascia, that runs over the sole. The pain is often felt in the heel and may be intense or dull. Some treatment possibilities include physical therapy, medicine, orthotics, stretching exercises, and shock therapy for feet. Resting the foot, icing the afflicted region, and wearing supportive shoes may also help.
Conclusion
Feet are complicated structures that bear the whole weight of the body and are prone to numerous sorts of discomfort. However, most foot pain may be successfully controlled with correct diagnosis and treatment, enabling persons to continue regular activities with minimum difficulty. If foot pain continues or increases, it is critical to get medical assistance since it might indicate a more severe underlying problem.
