Oh, my aching feet! If that’s a common refrain around your house, here are some ways to soothe your soles (note that if you are experiencing severe foot pain, be sure to see a chiropodist as soon as possible). Most aching feet are the result of standing, walking or running for too long. If your foot seems warm to the touch, it may be inflamed or swollen. Try icing it, because adding heat will open the capillaries further, increasing blood flow and adding to the inflammation. Remember to place a towel or cloth over your skin before applying an ice pack to it, and limit the time to about 15 minutes. Conversely, if your feet are tired and aching, but cool to the touch, a warm foot bath could be just the thing to gain some relief. After drying your feet thoroughly, you may wish to apply soothing lotion while also giving your feet a little massage. This will improve circulation and stimulate your foot muscles. Avoid massages if your feet are swollen or injured. If you believe you may have a serious foot injury, be sure to consult a chiropodist as soon as possible for a complete examination and diagnosis.
Foot pain is a common problem treated by chiropodists. If you have foot pain, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility.
When you are experiencing foot pain, it’s important to note the type of pain and its location, as this can help determine a diagnosis.
Pain in the top of the foot may be caused by:
- Stress fractures
- Sinus tarsi syndrome
- Extensor tendonitis
- Tibialis anterior tendonitis
- Gout
- Athlete’s foot
- Ganglion cysts
Pain in the bottom of the foot may be caused by:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Foot cramps
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fibromatosis
- Posterior tibial tendonitis
- Stress fractures
- Flat feet
Pain on the side of the foot may be caused by:
- Ankle sprain
- Cuboid syndrome
- Peroneal tendonitis
- Stress fractures
- Bunions
- Corns or calluses
- Posterior tibial tendonitis
Heel pain may be caused by:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendonitis
- Bone spurs
- Heel fractures
- Retrocalcaneal bursitis
- Sever’s disease
Pain in the toes may be caused by:
- Gout
- Hammertoe
- Turf toe
- Bunions
- Ingrown toenails
- Blisters
- Arthritis
These and many more conditions can be treated by a chiropodist. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON .