Foot and heel pain, a prevalent issue, can affect people of different ages and lifestyles. From minor to severe, the discomfort can interfere with regular activities. Here are a few typical causes of heel and foot discomfort.
Causes
- A plantar fasciitis
The most typical reason for heel pain is plantar fasciitis. Using shoes with insufficient support can contribute to this condition. Sharp heel pain is a symptom typically more potent in the morning or after extended periods of standing or walking.
- The Achilles tendon
Another often-occurring cause of heel pain is Achilles tendonitis. The Achilles tendon, which joins the calf muscle to the heel bone, is inflamed. Overuse, poor stretching, or wearing shoes with insufficient support can contribute to this issue. The heel may experience pain and stiffness, worsening in the morning or after exercise.
- Breaks under Stress
Little cracks or breaks in the foot’s bones, known as stress fractures, are typically brought on by overuse or repetitive stress. They may be widespread in athletes or those who participate in high-impact sports. Pain is one of the symptoms, which becomes worse with activity and gets better with rest.
- Bursitis
Bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that acts as a joint cushion. The heel may experience discomfort and tenderness as a result. Overuse or damage may be the cause of this disorder.
- Arthritis
Inflammation of the joints, including those in the feet and ankles, is a symptom of arthritis. It can make it difficult to walk or stand for extended periods by causing discomfort and stiffness in the joints.
Therapy Alternatives & Prevention
The underlying cause and seriousness of the issue will determine the best treatment for foot and heel pain. Rest, ice, over-the-counter painkillers, physical therapy, custom orthotics, injections, and surgery are common forms of treatment.
There are other preventive steps that you can follow to lower the chance of having foot and heel discomfort in addition to good foot care. Here are some extra pointers:
- Avoid wearing tight-fitting shoes or high heels. High heels can increase the chance of developing diseases like plantar fasciitis and heel spurs by adding additional pressure to the foot’s ball and heel. In addition to causing discomfort, wearing tight shoes can result in ingrown toenails or other foot issues.
- Put on footwear that is suitable for the activity. Various shoe types are needed for multiple tasks. Walking shoes are made for low-impact exercises, whereas running shoes are made to support and cushion the feet during high-impact activities.
- Keep a straight spine. Pain and discomfort can result from poor posture because it increases strain on the feet and lower back. You can improve your posture by standing up straight and keeping your shoulders back.
- Maintain proper foot hygiene. Keep your feet clean and dry to stop the development of germs and fungus, which can cause infections and other foot issues.
Contacting a podiatrist if foot and heel discomfort lasts longer than a few days is crucial. A podiatrist can complete an examination, diagnose appropriately, and offer a suitable course of action. Ignoring foot and heel pain can result in more severe issues and affect a person’s quality of life.
Although foot and heel pain might be prevalent, you can control it with the proper care and therapy. People can choose the best course of action for their foot health by knowing the typical reasons and available treatments for foot and heel pain. Preventative steps are essential to keep healthy feet. They include good foot hygiene and seeking immediate medical attention to get the right foot and heel pain treatments on the Gold Coast.