Foot pain can be difficult to bear, especially since we need to be on our feet daily. All this heavy use of the feet can lead to pain. Chronic foot pain is a very common affliction that affects many Americans – a majority have suffered or are suffering from foot pain.
In most cases, conservative methods can provide relief. These methods are often the first line of treatment for foot pain, as they are noninvasive, easily applied at home, and effective at getting many patients back to their daily routine.
In this blog, we discuss some of the non-surgical approaches used in the management of chronic foot pain, and when it is time to make an appointment with a doctor for professional treatment.
What Are Some Conditions That Can Cause Chronic Foot Pain?
First, let’s discuss the most common podiatric conditions that cause chronic foot pain:
- Plantar Fasciitis: The most common cause of chronic foot pain. It is usually felt at the bottom of the foot, often near the heel.
- Achilles Tendonitis: A condition that results from the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, causing pain felt at the back of the leg and heel.
- Metatarsalgia: A foot condition that causes pain in the ball of your foot, which makes weight-bearing difficult.
- Arthritis: Osteoarthritis of rheumatoid arthritis can cause chronic foot pain due to inflammation of the joints in the foot.
- Stress Fractures: Repetitive stress or overuse of the foot can result in small cracks or fractures in the bones, leading to chronic foot pain.
What Are Some Conservative Treatments That Can Be Used for Chronic Foot Pain?
There are many conservative treatments that can help you manage chronic foot pain. These treatments range from at-home remedies to medical interventions.
1. Stretching
Stretching exercises can help relieve pain and improve foot flexibility through better circulation and easing muscle tension and spasms.
2. Bracing and Splinting
Bracing and splints are effective in immobilizing the foot or ankle to support healing, particularly if the cause of foot pain is a fracture or sprain.
3. Ice and Heat Therapy
Ice and heat therapy, although very simple, can be very effective at relieving foot pain symptoms. Simply use ice or heat packs for 20 minutes at a time. Soaking your feet in warm water can also provide relief.
4. Orthotics
Orthotics are shoe inserts that can help improve your foot alignment and weight distribution. These inserts can be custom-made or bought over-the-counter, although custom-made are most effective. Custom orthotics, which are made specifically for your feet, are available only through a podiatrist.
5. Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that can help alleviate chronic foot pain by delivering high-energy sound waves to the affected area. It helps lower inflammation and stimulate the body’s natural healing process.
6. Physical Therapy
A physical therapist can offer various pain-relieving techniques and also recommend exercises that target your specific foot condition.
It may be time to schedule an appointment with a foot doctor if you experience pain that lasts over two weeks or interferes with daily activities. A podiatrist specializes in foot and ankle care and can evaluate your condition and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
Chronic Foot Pain Treatment in San Antonio, Boerne, Hondo, Floresville, Kenedy, Uvalde, and Live Oak, TX
The highly experienced team at Podiatry Group of South Texas specializes in proven techniques for managing chronic foot pain. Our podiatrists are foot and ankle surgeons and can identify the underlying cause of your symptoms and address it. We offer a range of non-surgical options for chronic foot pain relief and find them to be very effective for most of our patients.
Find out your treatment options from a consultation with one of our talented and friendly foot and ankle doctors. To schedule an appointment, call our location nearest you or use our online request form. We look forward to providing you the best in chronic foot pain treatment in South Texas.
