Foot Problems and how to treat them!

Your feet are important. Not only do they help you get from point A to B, but they’re also the foundation to the rest of your body. From walking to the park to chasing after your kids, your feet are constantly on working. So it’s no surprise that most people experience foot problems at some point in their lives. 

Bunions, calluses and chronic pain are common, especially if you don’t take preventative measures. But the good news is there are many effective ways to treat these issues. From physical therapy to custom orthotics, here are the top 5 ways to deal with common foot problems.  

 

1) Ice your feet

Inflammation is one of the leading causes of foot discomfort. Chronic inflammation can be caused by a one-time injury or long-term over usage. Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It involves inflammation of a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to your toes. 

Icing is one of the best ways to treat inflamed areas. You can do this by using an ice pack, or rolling your feet on a frozen water bottle. For best results, ice the affected area for at least 15 minutes — 3 times a day. 

 

2) Get a massage

A foot massage is very effective for improving circulation and relieving tension. When used with other treatment options, massage therapy is a great way to stimulate blood flow and alleviate pain. Although you can give yourself a foot rub at home, a professional can deliver much better results. 

An RMT will not only massage the affected area, but can also identify other parts of the body that may be contributing to your discomfort. Because your feet are so integral to your overall health, you may discover that a whole-body massage will reinvigorate this seemingly unconnected area. 

 

3) Wear the right shoes

You may think shoes are shoes, but not all of them are made for the same activity. Walking shoes, for example, have a very different structure from tennis shoes. To avoid foot problems, invest in proper-fitting footwear with the right support for your designated activity. 

When shopping, gauge quality by pressing on both sides of the heel. It should never collapse when applying pressure. Also, try bending the shoe to determine flexibility. Footwear that’s too stiff will not only cause pain, but also force your feet into unnatural positions. However, your shoes should always be rigid across the middle. If you’re having trouble finding good footwear, consider investing in a custom pair of orthopaedics. 

 

4) Use orthopedic inserts

These customized devices can take pressure off affected areas, and prevent foot problems before they start. Orthotics can be used to treat a number of issues, including fallen arches, achilles tendonitis, and even joint pain. These inserts can also help with chronic back pain as a result of muscle stress. 

At Physiomed, we offer custom orthotics that conform to the unique shape of your feet. These specialized devices are much more effective than over-the-counter versions, and are often covered by private insurance plans. 

 

5) See a physiotherapist

If you’re suffering from a more serious condition, it’s best to seek medical advice. Visit a physiotherapist to identify the underlying cause. You may require a healthcare professional if your foot pain is accompanied by:

• Flu-like symptoms
• Tingling or numbness
• An open wound that could become infected
• Shooting sensations up your legs

Physiomed offers customized treatment plans for a variety of foot abnormalities. Our team of interdisciplinary health experts offer a well-rounded approach that includes physiotherapy, massage therapy and chiropractic care. Don’t let foot problems get in the way of your daily activities. Rely on us to keep your feet active and pain-free! 

For more information on treating common foot problems or to book an assessment, contact us here.