Three Ways To Reduce Heel Pain
Posted on: 15 September 2017
Heel pain can be caused by a number of factors, from wearing the wrong shoes to spending too much time on your feet every day. For some, there are medical causes for heel pain, such as plantar fasciitis. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to reduce your discomfort. Use this guide, along with the guidance of your podiatrist, to help relieve your foot pain so you can continue to maintain your current lifestyle and activity level.
Foot Stretches
In some cases, stretching your feet every day can help to reduce pain. You can do this by placing one foot directly behind you with the other stretched forward and stretching forward, keeping your back heel firmly on the floor. Your podiatrist, someone from a place like Elkhorn Foot and Ankle Clinic PLLC, can recommend other stretches you can do at home, or he or she may give you a referral to a physical therapist who can provide you with customized stretches and exercises.
Proper Footwear
Wearing the wrong footwear can cause heel pain for some and it can make the pain worse in people who already suffer from this type of pain. You may want to look for athletic shoes with built-in arches and foot support for everyday wear. Consider wearing high heels less often, and try out different styles of footwear until you find the options that make you most comfortable. If your job requires dress shoes, talk to your podiatrist about getting a note that can excuse you from having to wear footwear that is not good for your heel pain.
Foot Soaks
You can reduce heel and foot pain after a long day of work or an intense workout routine with a warm soak. You can add magnesium sulfate to warm water to create a foot soak that soothes your tired feet, or you can simply use warm water on its own. If you have a foot spa with massaging action or water jets, consider this option as well. Soaking your feet can also provide a relaxing way to unwind while helping to reduce pain in your feet and ankles. Some podiatrists will even offer this option in a jet tub in their offices for a way to help reduce pain. As with any home treatment, be sure to consult with your physician to ensure you are taking the proper steps for your health and your medical history.
If you suffer from heel pain, schedule an appointment with your podiatrist, and ask which of these options might work best for you.
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