If you have arthritis, you might feel constant foot pains. This is due to the fact that the protective cartilage between the bones of your joints has worn down, so the bones rub against each other as you move — causing swelling and pain in your foot.
With this in mind, a strategic approach to foot care will help you reduce your foot pain and achieve better comfort in your feet. Some key elements in this pain-prevention strategy are the following:
Choose Supportive Footwear
Wearing supportive and comfortable shoes is one of the best ways to help prevent or reduce arthritis pain in your feet. Arch support is vital to stabilizing the feet when walking, as this will help spread the pressure across the feet rather than allowing pressure to be focused on only certain areas.
When buying your footwear, look for the following qualities:
- Flexible, soft material which will go around the shape of your foot and not constrict it
- Thick soles that provide both cushioning and stability
- Flat or very low heels – avoid high heels
- Rounded or squared-off toe, not pointed-toe shoes
- Good arch support and heel support
You may have to get a larger size than usual, so do not be concerned about this. Be sure that the shoes fit well right out of the box; don’t assume that the shoes will stretch to fit your foot eventually.
Exercise Your Feet
Exercising and stretching your feet is just as important as exercising the other parts of your body. This will enable you to increase both your mobility and flexibility, which are essential when you have arthritis in the feet.
Practical exercises involve rolling your feet from the heels to the toes and back, wiggling your toes repeatedly, and using your hand to pull your toes upward toward your heel to stretch out the Achilles tendon.
Use Topical Pain Medications
Topical medications can help minimize foot pain from arthritis. Check the labels of these over-the-counter medicines and look for those containing capsaicin, menthol, camphor, or lidocaine.
Get a Foot Massage
Relaxing massages are not only good for your neck and back, but also your feet – helping to bring relief from the aches and pains in your foot. You can do this yourself or through the help of someone else.
To do this yourself, just sit down in a chair, then bring one foot up upon the other knee, and use your hands to knead your toes and the balls of your feet. Make sure to add some pressure to the points where it aches the most.
Podiatry in San Antonio
These strategies are proven to be effective when it comes to providing temporary relief and comfort from arthritis pain in the feet. For more long-lasting relief, be sure to seek an experienced podiatrist.
If you suspect or know that you have arthritis in your feet, contact our skilled and friendly team at The Podiatry Group of South Texas. We offer top-notch medical care and the latest technological interventions to address any foot or ankle problem.
You can reach us today by calling (210) 227-8700 or requesting an appointment via our easy-to-use online form now. We look forward to helping you enjoy a more pain-free, active lifestyle!
