Our feet are probably amongst the most important parts in our entire body, but we don’t really think about them most of the time. However, having foot pain is incredibly uncomfortable and can keep you from carrying out your daily routine. There are many possible causes of foot pain; and some are easier to fix than others. But in most cases, you can avoid these conditions through simple prevention techniques.
Treatment
The best way to alleviate your foot pain starts with a visit to your Podiatrist Sydney. Podiatrists are medical doctors who have special interest in treating disorders of the feet. A podiatrist will be able to examine your history and symptoms in order to reach an accurate diagnosis. In many cases, attempting to diagnose and treat foot conditions on your own can make matters worse.
What Causes Foot Pain
There are many conditions that can make you suffer from foot pain, from diabetes, to bacterial or fungal infections, congenital or acquired foot abnormalities, and acute injuries. Some of the most common causes of foot pain include:
Foot Deformities
Foot deformities: there is a wide range of physical abnormalities that can become painful. Many times, these deformities stem from wearing inadequate footwear, with narrow toe boxes and lacking appropriate support. Although some people are more prone to develop foot deformities due to abnormal foot biomechanics and congenital defects, wearing supportive shoes and strengthening your muscles can be all you need to avoid these issues. Orthotics and other simple measures, such as over-the-counter pain killers, can be very helpful in treating these conditions.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis: your plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that stretches from your heel bone to your toes; it keeps all the structures in your foot in place and absorbs shock along the way. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of this fascia, which causes intense and stabbing foot pain, mostly on your heels. This condition can occur after a sudden increase in your exercise or standing for prolonged periods of time; having flat feet also makes it more likely for you to develop plantar fasciitis. In most cases, plantar fasciitis improves with conservative treatment.
Acute Injuries
Acute injuries: since our feet are in constant movement, foot injuries are very common. They can range from a simple ankle sprain and tendinitis, to stress fractures and broken toes. If you ever feel sharp pain after a trauma, your podiatrist will order imaging tests to determine the cause of your foot pain.
Systemic Disease
Systemic diseases: there are many chronic illnesses that can cause foot pain. Diabetes, lupus, gout, and arthritis are amongst the main causes of foot pain. Keeping your feet healthy and your condition under treatment will help alleviate your symptoms.
