Many people, throughout their lives, experience pain in their feet. The common types of foot pain vary as some have pain that is due to problems within the bones, and others have pain because of problems in the joints. Others have foot pain as a result of issues with the tendons or nerves in the feet.
Either way, those who experience pain in their feet must have the cause for the discomfort examined. Their general practitioners can make a referral to a podiatrist. So that they can get to the bottom of the problem. Some causes of pain in the feet are easily correctable as long as the patient implements some lifestyle changes. Others will need significant treatment, and perhaps even surgery. That depends on the condition of the feet.
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What Are Some Common Types of Foot Pain?
The type of foot pain that people experience can vary greatly. Sometimes a bone fracture in the foot can be the cause of some immense pain. Those who have a fracture may not even know that they had broken their bones inside of their feet. If they had bumped their feet into a blunt object or a rough surface, they might have caused more damage than they had realized. They could also break their toes without knowing either.
The treatment for broken bones in the feet often involves a cast helping to fuse the bones. Sometimes they need a brace. It depends on the severity of the fracture. They will need to stay off of the broken foot for weeks for it to heal.
Another common type of cause for foot pain is bunions, which are when the large toe ends up becoming deformed. Bunions are characterized by a bony bump that forms at the base of the large toe. It is due to the bones shifted out of place. Other common types of foot pain caused by problems with the bones are bone spurs. Bone spurs are bony projections that end up developing along the edges of the bones of the feet. Those are just some examples of foot pain that results from the bones being the cause.
Other common foot pain types are due to ailments having to do with tendons and joints. Many types of arthritis can happen in the joints in the feet, such as gout. Gout is arthritis in the feet that is the result of too much uric acid build-up, and this condition can be excruciating. Rheumatoid arthritis is also a common cause for joint pain in the feet, which is autoimmune. Bursitis is a common cause of foot pain, and it results from inflamed joints. Those are a few examples of how joint problems can be the cause of foot pain. There are often problems within the tendons as well.
Conditions such as Achilles tendinitis, Achilles tendon rupture, Plantar Fasciitis, Tendinitis, and Achilles tendon rupture are common causes of foot pain as well. The tendons in the feet, which is the tissue band that connects the lower leg muscles to the calf muscles to the heel, is damaged. The cause of damage can be the result of many types of trauma to the area. If the tendons and bones are not to blame for foot pain, then it can be the result of nerve damage.
One common type of foot pain caused by nerve damage is from diabetic neuropathy, which results in damage to the nerves from diabetes that has not been well controlled. Another type of foot pain that affects the nerve is due to peripheral neuropathy, which is a result of damage to the nerves that are outside of the spinal cord and brain. That condition can cause pain as well as weakness in the feet, as well as the hands.
Other causes of foot pain can also be the result of problems on the skin such as corns and calluses. Ingrown toenails are other common causes, as well as plantar warts. As you can see, there are many common types of foot pain of various origins. How can they be treated?
The Treatment Of Common Causes Of Foot Pain
The correct type of treatment of foot pain varies, and it depends on the cause for the intense discomfort. The first thing that has to happen is to determine the cause of foot pain. An intensive examination of the foot can determine the cause of foot pain. A proper treatment regimen can start after the root of the reason is discovered.
In the case of bone fractures, a cast may be necessary. In the case of foot pain due to diabetic neuropathy, diabetes medication must be administered and possibly insulin. Patients are also responsible for managing the health of their feet.
When it comes to managing foot pain properly regardless of the cause, finding the best types of shoes or even rubber hunting boots is a priority. Shoes and boots that have high-heels, have narrow toe boxes, and are restrictive are not suitable for feet. They only intensify the pain, and they also worsen any foot condition.
Shoes and boots that have wide toe boxes are made with material that stretches such as mesh, and have a slight heel are ideal. Footwear that matches that criteria are gentle on the feet. They allow the foot to move freely, which is essential for pain management in the foot. In many cases, individuals that have common types of foot pain may want to purchase an insert.
Shoe inserts provide extra support for feet regardless of the condition that is causing extreme discomfort. Premade orthotics are an option. However, in some situations, a custom-made orthotic insole is ideal. A podiatrist prescribes the orthotics. They are more expensive, but a good insurance plan can cover some of the costs.
If you are unsure whether or not you should get an insert for your shoe premade or custom-made, consult with your podiatrist. You should be talking to your podiatrist on how to manage your foot pain in general. You can even try to wear wide hiking boots as those are spacious and truly do give your feet room to breathe and move.
Elevating your feet as often as you can when you are home and resting is recommended to relieve pressure from your feet. However, at the same time, don’t live a sedentary lifestyle. Eating well and getting plenty of exercises helps you stay healthy and keeps your weight to an optimal level. Extra weight adds extra pressure to your feet, so keep that in mind. When you do go walking, always wear the ideal shoes or boots that will support your feet. It is important to strike a balance.
Conclusion
Why do feet often hurt? The common types of foot pain are the result of problems with the bones in the feet, the skin, the muscles, the tendons, or nerves. A doctor can refer their patients complaining of foot pain to a podiatrist.
Related: how can you prevent bunions in the first place?
The podiatrist can determine the cause of the foot pain, and create a treatment plan so that your foot can heal. You are also responsible for managing the pain, and that will result in lifestyle changes. Changing your lifestyle can be quite uncomfortable. However, foot pain that is out of control is even more painful.