FOOT PAIN TREATMENT
WHAT IS FOOT PAIN?
The nature of foot pain can vary significantly from person to person. For some, it might manifest as a mild, occasional ache that occurs after a long day of standing or an intense workout. On the other end of the spectrum, foot pain can be severe and chronic, persisting for weeks, months, or even years. This type of pain can be debilitating, interfering with basic activities like walking, standing, or even wearing shoes comfortably. Chronic foot pain can have far-reaching effects, impacting an individual’s ability to work, exercise, or engage in social activities, ultimately affecting their overall quality of life.
The sensation of foot pain itself can take many forms. Some people experience sharp, stabbing pains that come on suddenly, often associated with specific movements or activities. Others might describe a dull, constant ache that persists throughout the day. Burning sensations, particularly in the ball of the foot or the heel, are also common and can be indicative of certain conditions like plantar fasciitis or nerve problems.
Understanding the nuances of foot pain is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. The intensity, duration, type of sensation, and location of the pain all provide valuable clues about its underlying cause. At MyFootMedic, we take all these factors into account when assessing and treating foot pain, ensuring a comprehensive approach to foot health.
WHAT CAUSES FOOT PAIN?
There are 26 bones in each foot making up over a quarter of the bones in the human body, these bones take our whole body weight every time we stand or walk. Due to this, foot pain can be caused by a multifaceted array of factors and affects millions of people worldwide. Understanding these causes is crucial for effective treatment and prevention. The origins of foot pain can range from everyday activities to underlying medical conditions, and often, multiple factors contribute to discomfort in our feet. Lifestyle and environmental factors, such as shoes, can also contribute to our symptoms.
Common injuries include sprains, strains and fractures, often resulting from physical activities or accidents. Overuse can lead to conditions like tendinitis, especially in athletes or those with jobs requiring prolonged standing. Structural problems such as flat feet, high arches, bunions, and hammertoes can alter weight distribution and create pressure points, causing chronic discomfort.
Medical conditions significantly contribute to foot pain. Various forms of arthritis, including gout, can affect foot joints, while diabetes may lead to nerve damage in the feet. Other conditions like Morton’s neuroma can cause sharp pain in specific areas of the foot.
At MyFootMedic, we recognise that foot pain often results from a combination of these factors. Our experienced podiatrists conduct thorough examinations to identify the specific causes of your foot pain, enabling us to develop personalised treatment plans. By addressing the root causes, we aim to provide long-lasting relief and maintain your foot health for years to come.
HOW CAN FOOT PAIN BE TREATED?
At MyFootMedic, we offer a comprehensive approach to treating foot pain, tailored to each patient’s specific needs. The best treatment starts with a thorough examination, this enables us to achieve a working diagnosis and understand the causative factors that have led to your pain. With this knowledge we can then form a specific personalised treatment plan to optimise your recovery.
We offer a wide range of treatment options to combat the different conditions and causes of your foot pain. This ranges from joint/soft tissue manipulation and targeted exercises to shockwave therapy, ultrasound guided injections, custom prescription orthotics, and ankle braces. Where appropriate, we can also offer point-of-care ultrasound imaging to assist in our assessments or refer privately for further imaging such as MRI scans. For further information on our treatment options, please see our services menu at the top of this page.
Our experienced podiatrists conduct thorough evaluations to create personalised treatment plans, often combining multiple approaches for optimal results. We believe in early intervention to prevent chronic issues and are committed to helping you regain comfort and mobility.
LET’S ANSWER YOUR FOOT PAIN QUESTIONS!
Determining the severity of foot pain is crucial for timely and appropriate treatment. While minor aches can often be managed at home, certain signs indicate a need for professional evaluation. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe pain, swelling, or inability to bear weight on the affected foot. Persistent pain lasting more than a few days, pain that worsens with activity, or pain accompanied by redness, warmth, or fever may signal a more serious condition. Changes in foot shape, colour, or sensation, as well as any open sores or wounds that don’t heal, particularly in individuals with diabetes, require prompt assessment. At MyFootMedic, we recommend booking an appointment with one of our experienced podiatrists if you’re unsure about the severity of your foot pain. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from developing into more serious problems, ensuring the long-term health of your feet.
When experiencing foot pain, deciding between seeing a podiatrist or a general practitioner (GP) depends on several factors. Podiatrists are specialists in foot and ankle care, making them ideal for addressing specific foot, ankle or gait related issues. They have extensive training in diagnosing and treating a wide range of foot conditions, from common problems like ingrown toenails to complex issues such as significant tendon damage. A podiatrist can offer specialised treatments, including custom orthotics and guided injection therapies. On the other hand, your GP is an excellent starting point for general health concerns, especially if you are looking for NHS treatment. They may recommend seeing a podiatrist if your condition requires specialised care. For chronic foot pain, recurring issues, or conditions affecting your mobility, consulting a podiatrist directly can lead to faster, more targeted treatment. At MyFootMedic, we recommend scheduling an appointment with our podiatry team for persistent or concerning foot pain to ensure you receive expert care tailored to your specific foot health needs.
Walking can indeed play a significant role in managing foot pain, but its effectiveness depends on the underlying cause of the discomfort. In many cases, gentle, low-impact walking can help strengthen foot muscles, improve flexibility, and promote better circulation, all of which contribute to pain relief and overall foot health. Walking can also help maintain a healthy weight, reducing stress on your feet. However, walking also applies significant pressure through your feet and can further aggravate your symptoms if you are in pain, potentially making your condition worse. At MyFootMedic, we assess each patient’s condition individually to determine if and how walking should be incorporated into their foot pain management strategy. If walking exacerbates your pain, it’s important to consult with our podiatrists to explore alternative treatments or modifications to your walking routine.
To alleviate aching feet, a multi-faceted approach is often most effective. Start by giving your feet adequate rest, especially after long periods of standing or walking. Gentle stretching exercises, particularly for the calf muscles and plantar fascia, can provide relief and prevent stiffness. Investing in supportive, well-fitting shoes is crucial for long-term comfort, and custom orthotics may offer additional support if needed. Over-the-counter pain relievers can provide temporary relief, but for persistent aching, it’s important to consult a podiatrist. At MyFootMedic, we can assess the root cause of your foot ache and provide tailored treatments, which may include soft tissue and joint manipulations, targeted exercises, or advanced interventions to address underlying issues and provide lasting relief.
Arthritis in the feet can manifest through several distinct signs and symptoms. Common indicators include persistent pain, particularly in the joints, which may worsen with activity or at the end of the day. Stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of rest, is another hallmark sign. Swelling around the affected joints, accompanied by warmth or redness, can also occur. Many patients experience decreased flexibility and range of motion in their toes or ankles, making it difficult to walk or perform daily activities. In some cases, the shape of the foot may change over time, with visible lumps or nodules forming near affected joints. Tenderness when pressure is applied to specific areas and a grinding sensation (crepitus) when moving the joints are additional signs to watch for. At MyFootMedic, we recommend seeking professional help if you notice any of these symptoms, as early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life for those with foot arthritis.
FOOT PAIN TREATMENT FROM MYFOOTMEDIC IN BEDFORD
Foot pain can significantly impact your daily life, affecting mobility and overall well-being. If you’re experiencing persistent or severe foot pain, don’t let it control your life. Take the first step towards relief by booking an appointment with our experienced podiatrists. Our team provide personalised care, accurate diagnoses, and effective treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. Don’t wait for the pain to worsen—schedule your appointment today and start your journey towards healthier, happier feet.
