Foot problems are very common, but many people panic when they first experience foot pain because they don’t know what the problem is, or what they can do about it. Having an understanding of some common foot conditions and how to treat them can be very useful so that you do not need to worry when you or your family experience these problems.
Here’s our quick guide to common foot problems and how to treat them:
1. Heel pain. If you’re experiencing a sharp pain in your heel, you may be suffering from plantar fasciitis. This condition, in which the ligament that joins the heel to the toes becomes inflamed or torn, is usually the result of over training or failing to warm up thoroughly, and requires rest and specific exercises in order to help the plantar fascia ligament to heal.
2. Itching, flaky skin. Flaky skin or areas of redness that itch, especially between the toes, is often caused by a fungal infection such as Athlete’s foot. There are many treatment methods for such conditions, including changing shoes and socks on a daily basis, and taking care to dry between the toes, or over the counter medication for more persistent infections.
3. Stone in your shoe. Mortons neuroma is a common foot condition that is characterised by the painful feeling of having a stone in your shoe, or numbness of the ball of the foot. This is due to the compression of the nerves in the ball of the foot and can be treated with rest, massage, alcohol sclerosing or, in extreme cases, surgery to remove the nerve.
4. Bony growth at the base of the big toe. Bunions are thought to be a genetic deformity, but can be worsened by the wearing of high-heeled shoes, which crush the toes together. Wearing wider shoes can relieve the pain, and surgery may be necessary if walking is very painful or impossible.
5. Toes bending incorrectly. Wearing high heels leads to an uneven weight distribution and to pressure being placed on the feet. A common consequence of this is that toes are crushed together, often in narrow toe boxes, and they become deformed and bend downwards, known as hammer toes. This condition often requires strapping to try to correct damage, but will also need well-fitted shoes and probably orthotic inserts to relieve pressure and pain.
Find Shoes to Relieve Foot Pain in Ireland
Wearing footwear that is not supportive enough for your feet can cause many painful foot conditions, and good shoes can help to prevent problems developing. It’s vital to ensure that every pair of shoes you wear provides a good level of cushioning and support for your feet. Visit Foot Solutions today for a free gait analysis test and we’ll help you to find the best solution for you and your lifestyle.
