There are many reasons why your arches hurts and each can lead to different solutions. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia tissue on the sole of the feet, which causes painful heel spurs and intense foot pain upon movements. Foot cramps are caused by muscle spasms and dehydration, which can lead to intense pain along the lower area of your leg. And more! We’ll explore some of the common causes of arch pain and how they can be treated in this blog.
Foot Pain
If you’re suffering from chronic foot pain, it might be time to seek the help of a podiatrist. Podiatrists are known for their exceptional knowledge base and experience in diagnosing, treating, and preventing foot problems like plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, ankle pain, or diabetic foot ulcers. At City Chiropody, we are dedicated to providing compassionate care and helping our patients walk freely again.
Causes
You need to know that foot pain can be caused by one or more ailments — the most common of which include bunions, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, corns, tarsal tunnel syndrome, ingrown toenails, arthritis (such as gout, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis), flat feet, and injury (from stress fractures to broken toes and sprained ankles).
Diagnosis
If you suffer from foot pain, chances are you’ll visit a podiatrist like ourselves. We are medical professionals are specially trained to diagnose and treat problems with your feet, ankles and lower legs. If you want to know what’s causing your foot pain, a podiatrist will do several different tests to find out. This may include visual inspections, sensation tests, X-rays and MRI scans — depending on your history and any recent physical traumatic events.
Treatment
Treatments for foot pain must be tailored to the cause and severity of the pain. Resting or staying off the foot sometimes works, but surgery may be necessary occasionally. For example, if a twisted ankle or chronic ankle pain is the cause of your pain, a brace may help. If a bony growth causes your pain, your doctor may recommend surgery. Podiatrists can assist you in determining which form of treatment is best for you.
Some treatment options include:
Rest
The best treatment for acute foot pain is rest, you could also try the R.I.C.E method. Take a break from your normal activities. Take the time to ice your foot and elevate it. If the pain is severe, consult with a foot doctor or primary care physician to discuss your pain symptoms and determine if a more serious condition causes the pain.
Orthotics
Orthotics are devices that are designed to provide support to the foot. Custom orthotics can be designed for specific foot problems. The foot is a complex structure, and injuries or problems to the foot can result in functional abnormalities. Custom orthotics correct these functional abnormalities and help improve the foot’s mechanics, which can decrease foot pain. In order to get the full benefit of custom orthotics, the orthotics must be fitted to the foot and worn for the full length of time.
Foot Surgery
Some podiatrists might perform surgery on the feet and ankles, including bunion surgery, heel surgery and reconstructive foot surgery. A foot and ankle surgeon is specially trained to manage complex surgical foot and ankle conditions and injuries.
We’re a nationally recognised podiatry practice based in Barbican and Loughton. If you’re looking for the best in foot care technology and welcoming, friendly staff, we’re here for you! Contact us to book an appointment at your earliest convenience.