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Pain - Foot Pain Treatment Suggestions
For 5 Types Of Foot Pain
by Ray Attebery
According to a survey by the American Podiatric Medical Association,
47% of Americans have experienced some form of foot pain in their
life. Foot pain can affect every part of the foot, including
the sole, arch, heel, and toes. Most causes of foot pain can
be treated very easily, but there are different circumstances
where surgery is necessary.
Some of the most common causes of
foot pain include:
1). Bunions
This is a very common condition that affects the base of the
big toe. It occurs when the big toe gets pushed toward the second
toe.
Treatment: As soon as you notice a bunion forming, switch to
wider, more comfortable shoes. If the bunion is severe and results
in deformity or relentless foot pain, surgery may be needed.
If surgery is suggested, get a 2nd opinion.
2). Plantar Fasciitis
If you experience foot pain in your heal when you wake up in
the morning, chances are you have plantar fasciitis. This irritating
foot pain means the band of tissue connecting your heel to your
toes is inflamed.
Treatment: Stretching and rest will help you deal with the foot
pain associated with plantar fasciitis. In some cases, anti-inflammatory
medication is prescribed.
3). Corns
Corns are thickened skin on toes or side of the foot. They are
typically caused by poor-fitting shoes.
Treatment: The foot pain experienced by corns can be easily eased
by wearing properly-fitted shoes. If the foot pain is severe
because of an infection around the corn, antibiotics may be prescribed.
For immediate relief of foot pain, soak your foot in warm water,
and then rub down the corn with a pumice stone, found in most
drug stores. |
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4). Heel Spurs
A heel spur is a small hook of bone that forms on the heel bone.
Heel spurs occur in almost 70% of patients with planter fasciitis.
See a podiatrist is you think you have either condition. The
podiatrist can determine the condition by taking and reviewing
an X-Ray.
Treatment: Do not use heel inserts because they can increase
your foot pain caused by heel spurs. Treatment may range from
cortisone shots, to physical therapy, to a pair of customer made
orthonics.
5). Tendonitis
Over time, wear and tear affects the tendons in the foot, specifically
the Achilles tendon. Those who suffer from Achilles tendonitis
liken the foot pain to a sharp smack to the back of the heel.
Treatment: Initially, doctors will prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, to alleviate foot pain. Physical
therapy may also be recommended in order to strengthen the muscles.
If after two weeks of self treatment, your foot pain still persists,
see your doctor or a podiatrist. Also, if you cannot bear weight
on the foot, or if there is bruising, deformity, or blood present,
a trip to the doctor is mandatory. |