Step towards pain relief: what to know about foot pain
Written by:Not only can recurrent foot pain cause discomfort, it can also disrupt your daily routine and prevent you from enjoying an active lifestyle. We invited revered consultant orthopaedic surgeon Mr Howard Davies, who specialises in foot and ankle surgery, to share his expert insight on the most common causes of foot pain, how to relieve it at home and when to seek medical advice.
What are the most common causes of foot pain?
Foot pain is not always related to an underlying condition. It may be caused by:
- Broken foot, toes or ankle
- Poorly fitting shoes or high heeled shoes
- Injury to the foot by an object
- Foot sprains, strains, and fractures
- Standing for long periods of time
- Walking or running for a long time
Other causes of foot pain include nerve damage, inflammation, overuse, overstretching, and trauma. Underlying health issues like diabetes and peripheral artery disease, which impacts blood flow, can also lead to foot pain.
How can I relieve foot pain at home?
There are several ways to relieve foot pain at home. In less serious cases, you could:
- Apply an ice pack and rest your foot
- Perform specific muscle stretches of the heel and foot
- Take over-the-counter pain killers
- Wear comfortable and well-fitting shoes and have shock-absorbing soles
- Avoid activities that worsen the pain, such as too much walking
When should you see a doctor about foot pain?
It is important to see a doctor if you notice that foot pain interferes with your daily activities. You should see a doctor immediately if you notice that the foot area is deformed, there is loss of foot function, change of sensation, excessive swelling with pain, change of foot colour, an open wound or oozing pus.
Which tests are performed to diagnose the cause of foot pain?
Doctors assess foot pain by observing the mechanics of your feet, testing strength in the ankles and locating the main area of your pain. They may also examine your foot while you stand and while you sit and ask about your lifestyle and activity level. Imaging tests that can be helpful in diagnosing the cause of foot pain may include X-rays, CT scans, ultrasound or MRI.
If you would like to schedule a consultation with Mr Davies, you can do so by visiting his Top Doctors profile.
