Foot pain

When your feet hurt, it can feel like the most painful place to have pain. But what often causes that pain? There are many different types of foot conditions, which are often caused by an injury or repetitive strain on your feet. You may have even developed these conditions from playing sports, standing all day at work, or simply having smaller feet than others. The good news is that with the right footwear, activities and habits you can avoid further pain and complications in the future. These tips will help identify the source of your foot pain and reduce the risk of developing other conditions.

Morton's foot

If you have seen a foot specialist or podiatrist, they may have diagnosed you with Morton's foot. This condition is characterised by a misalignment of the first metatarsal bone in your foot. As a result, the bones in your toes and foot may be shorter than normal. This condition is often hereditary, meaning that it runs in families. There are cases of people who were diagnosed with Morton's foot in their teens, even though neither parent had the condition. When you book with your osteopath they will perform a full assessment and provide information as to how you should progress through your rehabilitation.

Flat feet

If you have flat feet, it means there is a misalignment of the bones in your foot. This misalignment can cause your arch to fall, which may cause pain in your arch when you are standing or walking. Most people who experience pain as a result of flat feet don't have any underlying issues and their pain goes away as they grow older. However, you may want to see a podiatrist to make sure your condition isn't causing damage or pain in the long term.

Heel pain

Heel pain can be caused by overuse or wearing shoes that don't properly support your foot. If you have bunions or hammer toes, they can put more pressure on the back of your foot. This added pressure can cause the bones and muscles in the back of your foot to become inflamed, which can lead to heel pain. If you have plantar fasciitis, inflammation in your foot may cause heel pain. This irritation can happen when your foot is overworked, which can happen if you wear tight-fitting shoes or are overweight. When you book with your osteopath they will determine the rehabilitation protocol for this condition.

Bunions and Corns

Bunions occur when the joint at the base of your big toe moves towards your ankle. This can cause the joint to angle towards the inside of your foot and lead to corns. These painful, red lumps can appear where your toes bend and can be treated with a bunion splint, orthotics or altering your footwear. If you have a bunion, there are a few things you can do to reduce pain. Make sure you wear wide-fitting shoes and don't stand on your toes when you walk. You can also use foot creams or pads to reduce friction and prevent sores.

plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation in the thick tissue that supports your foot. When you overwork this tissue, it can become inflamed. The best way to prevent or treat plantar fasciitis is to strengthen the muscles in your feet. You can do this by doing exercises like walking, climbing stairs and standing on your toes. You can also protect your feet by wearing proper footwear, avoiding long periods of sitting, and keeping your feet well-hydrated.

How an osteopath can help with foot pain

If you are experiencing foot pain, an osteopath can help. An osteopath can determine why you're experiencing pain and suggest ways to reduce or eliminate it. If you have a specific condition, such as a broken bone, an osteopath can treat your foot pain as a result of it. They may also be able to help you avoid developing other conditions. An osteopath can help you adjust your foot position and strengthen your muscles, which can relieve pain and prevent future issues. The best way to prevent foot pain is to wear the right shoes and exercise regularly. You should also make sure to stretch regularly, drink plenty of water, and eat foods that promote healthy feet. If you are experiencing foot pain, it is important to identify the source of the pain. Once you know what's causing your pain, you can take steps to reduce or eliminate it.