There are various possible causes for foot pain. The foot pain can occur in any region of the foot from the toes or on the heel and the pain can range from minimal discomfort to debilitating.
Some cases of foot pain can be readily managed at home while others require medical attention. The foot pain might be an indication of an underlying health condition. If the individual experiences foot pain that increases in intensity or does not improve with home measures, a doctor should be consulted.
What are the possible causes?
Most cases of foot pain are instigated by injury or using ill-fitting shoes. Wearing an ill-fitting pair of shoes can lead to the formation of calluses, bunions as well as plantar warts and fallen arches which all cause pain.
When exercising or if the feet are overused, the foot pain might be due to an injury. Fractures or sprains in the feet can be painful and should be managed by a doctor. In some cases, the exact cause of the foot pain is not evident. This would require consultation with a doctor to check for any underlying conditions that might be causing the pain.
Possible underlying health conditions
If the cause for the foot pain is unknown, it is vital to consult a doctor so that any underlying health condition can be assessed. Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis can both trigger foot pain in most cases.
Even diabetes can also trigger foot pain. Once this occurs, it is called as diabetic neuropathy. This is described as nerve pain that can be intense and cause the toes to cramp. When it comes to diabetic individuals, observing blood glucose control can help prevent the pain. If the doctor determines the cause of the foot pain, management of the pain will be a lot easier.
Prevention and treatment
There are various ways to manage the foot pain at home. Initially, you have to keep the affected foot in an elevated position with an ice pack in place. If possible, the individual should avoid walking to help minimize the pain.
There are also over-the-counter pain medications that can help with the pain. In case calluses and warts are responsible for the pain, there are removers available in drug stores and groceries.
Shoes largely contribute to the problem. This is why investing on a good quality pair of shoes that properly fit can help with the foot pain. While exercising, it is recommended to use shoes suitable for the exercise.
Dealing with the foot issues once they manifest such as bunions and ingrown toenails can prevent the problem from getting worse.
Considerations to bear in mind
In case the foot pain makes it difficult for the individual to walk, a doctor should be consulted as soon as possible. If the pain was caused by an injury, the individual should not hesitate to consult a doctor as well.
An X-ray is performed to assess for any fractures or breaks. Any damage would require the use of a splint or cast while the affected area heals. If the individual could not recall any injury, but the foot pain does not seem to improve with home measures within 2 weeks, it should be assessed by a doctor.