Aching feet or sore feet can be a symptom of something more serious that needs to be treated. Your feet do a lot of work and most of the time, it is taken for granted.
Whether you are standing for long hours, sitting down, exercising, walking – your feet have been taking a lot of beating for the most part of your life and you may already suffer more than just a simple sore feet or aching feet.
Be aware and listen to your feet – because it might already be screaming and telling you that there is something wrong with your body.
What conditions can be linked to your sore feet?
Most cases of foot pain are minor and not that serious, that’s the reason why many people don’t mind or pay attention to it. But if it causes serious discomfort or the pain doesn’t go away, then it could be more serious than you thought.
Read on because you might already be experiencing some of these conditions.
Calluses and blisters
Calluses are thickened areas of the skin that are formed when there’s always too much pressure applied. Blisters are formed similarly except they are pockets of fluid that build up in the upper layers of the skin. People get blisters and calluses when feet are rubbed against the shoe.
Good thing they are not a serious condition and can heal on their own. To avoid having blisters and calluses, make sure that your feet are always moisturised and that you wear comfortable socks and shoes.
Acute injuries
Acute injuries are painful but they require minor treatments. Some of them can even be treated at home. A common acute injury is Achilles tendinitis which is an overuse of the tendon, the band of tissue that connects the calf muscles at the back of the lower leg to your heel bone.
Most Achilles tendinitis can be treated even at home by resting your feet and legs, compressing the tendons, and keeping your ankle propped up. More serious cases may require surgical repairs.
Arthritis
Arthritis refers to a group of diseases that cause joint pain and swelling. There are more than a hundred types of arthritis and the most common form of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the breakdown of cartilage from within the joint. It usually occurs from excessive physical activity.
Osteoarthritis not only causes severe pain but can also cause immobility. It also worsens with physical activity. Patients who have this condition undergo lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and some need tools to aid mobility.
Morton’s Neuroma
This condition is characterised by the thickening of the tissue surrounding the small nerves in your toes. It feels like there is a sharp pain in the ball of your foot. The pain can also spread to your toes which causes discomfort while you are walking.
Plantar Fasciitis
The plantar fascia is a thick band of connective tissue in the sole of your foot and if there’s inflammation and irritation of this tissue, the condition is called plantar fasciitis.
There are many causes why you can have this condition. Walking, prolonged standing, and running are the most common ones. Other medical conditions such as obesity, including deformities such as high-arched feet and flat feet, are also some of the causes.
Diabetic neuropathy
This is a type of nerve damage that occurs in people with diabetes. High blood sugar can injure the nerves all over your body and it often damages the nerves in your legs and feet.
Diabetic neuropathy can range from pain to numbness on your legs and feet to problems with digestion, blood vessels, urinary tract, and heart. For some, this can be quite painful and disabling.
Remedies for sore feet
So, if you have been experiencing sore feet or some of the common symptoms mentioned above, here are some methods you can try to relieve your foot pain and prevent them from becoming serious.
Do a foot bath with massage
A warm foot bath may be the solution to ease your sore feet. Adding ingredients such as Epsom salts or essential oils can relieve sore muscles and may also reduce swelling in your feet. Soak your feet for about twenty minutes and pat dry.
Once done, apply moisturiser or lotion then rub and knead the bottom of your feet. Pull apart and bend your toes to massage. This helps in improving blood flow and relieving the soreness of your feet.
Perform stretching exercises
Regularly perform stretching exercises that will help your sore feet. Focus on your feet especially the heels and toes, to prevent cramping and promote flexibility. Here are a few examples:
- Flex your toes, point them and curl for a few seconds. Then repeat this toe exercise ten times.
- Another way is to sit down and extend your legs. Move your toes around then point them toward and away from your body. Move your ankles in a circular motion – in clockwise and counterclockwise directions. Repeat about ten times.
- You may also do some stretching in a standing position. Stand straight, make sure that you are not leaning forward, then lift the foot of your cramping leg up behind you and grab your foot with your hand on that side. Pull your heel gently forward your butt as you feel a stretch in your quads. Keep the other leg straight and hold the stretch for about 15-30 seconds. Release and repeat. Do the same thing on your other leg.
Invest in good arch supports
Arch support or orthotics can help keep your feet stable while walking or standing. It helps in easing and eliminating the pain. You can purchase them or have them custom-made for you by your doctor. These orthotics have shown to be effective in improving foot function and eliminating rear foot pain.
Wear comfortable footwear
Your shoes can be the reason why you are experiencing sore feet or foot pain. Hence, it is important that you choose the right footwear that is comfortable and well-fitted on your feet. Also, wear shoes that are fitted for certain activities such as rubber shoes when exercising.
We use our feet for different activities. Hence, proper foot care is important to avoid further complications. But if you have been experiencing intense and persistent pain, it is advisable to check with your doctor or healthcare provider and have a complete physical exam to get to the bottom of it.
Fun fact about Nicola: She owns a lot of sunscreens as she carries a mini sunscreen in each of her handbags and backpacks.
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