Foot Pain Archives - Foot Palace

7 Most Common Foot Problems – Causes, Treatments, and Prevention

June 23, 2021 By Heather

Prevent foot pain and agony from stealing your mobility and wellness. Knowing what causes common foot problems and how to deal with them will help you continue a healthy and productive life.

yourfootpalace.com gathered the following information about 7 significant and common foot problems, what causes them, how to treat them, and how to prevent them.

7 Common Foot Problems

The following 7 foot problems are common and easily treatable when addressed in their earliest stages.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia (the tough tissue stretching from the heel bone to the base of the toes.

Causes – Plantar fasciitis is most commonly caused by repetitive strain injury to the plantar fascia. This strain injury can occur from excessive running or walking, inadequately fitted footgear, and jumping injury from strained landings.

Symptoms – Plantar fasciitis will typically cause stabbing pain in the bottom of your foot (usually near the heel). The pain is usually at its most acute with the first few steps after awakening; the condition can also be triggered by standing for long periods or getting up after sitting.

Treatment – Most plantar fasciitis treatment plans include resting, icing the painful area, and stretching. More severe cases may require medication, orthotics, and even surgery.

Recovery Time – 6 to 12 months (or more) with continuous care and treatment.

Prevention – Use exercises and stretches designed to prevent plantar fasciitis daily.

Neuropathy (Peripheral Neuropathy)

Peripheral neuropathy is often the result of damage to nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord (peripheral nerves)

Causes – Neuropathy can result from physical injury, infection, exposure to toxic substances, or conditions like diabetes, kidney failure, or malnutrition.

Symptoms – Peripheral neuropathy is a nerve problem that causes pain, numbness, tingling, swelling, or severe muscle weakness in different parts of the body (usually the extremities). This condition typically begins in the hands or feet and spreads, getting worse with time.

Treatment – Depending on the cause of your neuropathy, you may be prescribed a multi-faceted treatment approach, including:

Physical Therapy
Topical Treatments
Pain Relievers
Anti-seizure Medications
Antidepressants
Surgery

Neuropathy-related nerve pain may be relieved by medications like gabapentin (Gralise, Neurontin, Horizant) and pregabalin (Lyrica).

Note: In many cases, your doctor may recommend waiting to see if your neuropathy conditions improve before considering any treatments.

Recovery Time – If neuropathy symptoms diminish, the process will be gradual, requiring several months.

Prevention – While peripheral neuropathy may be caused by factors beyond your control, you can significantly reduce your risk for this condition by avoiding alcohol, correcting vitamin deficiencies, consuming a healthy diet, maintaining your weight and BMI below risk factors, avoiding toxins, and exercising regularly.

Learn more about peripheral neuropathy.

Metatarsalgia

Metatarsalgia is a very common overuse condition affecting either or both feet in which the ball of your foot (the area between the arches and toes) becomes inflamed and painful.

Causes – Being a frequent runner, wearing poorly fitting shoes or high heels, and excess weight can lead to metatarsalgia. If you have rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or gout, these conditions can exacerbate metatarsalgia.

Symptoms – Metatarsalgia symptoms are usually localized in or around the ball of your foot and can include:

Aching and/or burning pain in the ball of your foot
Sharp, shooting pain in your toes
Numbness or tingling in your toes
Intensifying pain when walking, running, or exercising then eases when at rest
Ongoing sensation of a pebble under your foot – in your shoe

The main symptom associated with metatarsalgia is a sharp, dull, or burning pain at the end of one or more of the metatarsal bones. metatarsalgia does not usually occur suddenly. Rather it builds up over several months.

Treatment – Metatarsalgia treatment is typically determined by analyzing the cause and severity of the condition and your pain. Many times, treatment for mild to moderate symptoms include the following conservative measures:

Staying off/Resting your feet
Changing your footwear
Using orthotic sole inserts
Using arch supports

When these measures fail to relieve your discomfort, consider the following:

Ice your foot multiple times per day
If you are overweight, lose weight
Use an over-the-counter pain reliever/anti-inflammatory (discuss the benefits and potential side-effects with your doctor before taking any medication)
Elevate your foot (above your waist) after activity

You may need to modify some of your activities:

Avoid wearing shoes with high-heels
Take a break from high-impact sports
Exclude high-impact activities and include low-impact activities like swimming and cycling
Make time for frequent relaxing spa days

Tip: A reflexology massage may relieve foot pain and discomfort, as it focuses on the foot’s pressure points.

Recovery Time – Depending on the severity of the condition, it may take 6-8 weeks for the condition to improve and multiple months for it to completely heal.

Prevention – Protect your feet from undue stress and hard or repeated impacts.

Maintain healthy body weight
Use shoe inserts
Use custom made orthotics

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot or tinea pedis is a skin and foot infection that can be caused by a variety of different fungi. Although tinea pedis can affect any portion of the foot, the infection most often affects the space between the toes.

Causes – Tinea pedis spreads through contact with infected skin scales or contact with fungi in damp areas like showers, locker rooms, swimming pools, etc. Tinea pedis can be a chronic infection that recurs frequently.

Symptoms – Athlete’s foot is typically identified by skin fissures or scales that can be red and itchy.

Treatment – Treatment may include topical creams and powders applied to the skin surface or oral medications.

Recovery Time – It can take 6 months or more to see improvements in conditions, and depending on your diligence in control measures, it may take one year or more to fully eradicate this condition from your home and clothing.

Prevention – dermatologists recommend that you take the following precautions to prevent contracting athlete’s foot:

Wear shower shoes, flip-flops, or sandals when walking around pools, gyms, shower or locker areas, and hotel rooms
Even if you have not gone barefoot in public areas, keep your feet dry
Wash your feet every day with soap and completely dry them afterward
Wear socks made of fabrics that dry quickly or wick moisture away from the skin, and be sure to change your socks every day
Alternate the shoes you wear daily, if possible, to make sure shoes are dry when they are put on
If you live with someone who has athlete’s foot, don’t share towels, linens, socks, or shoes
Wear shoes when in areas where infected feet have been
If your athlete’s foot is not improving or is worsening, see a board-certified dermatologist

Heel Spurs

Also known as calcaneal spurs or osteophytes, a heel spur is a bony outgrowth calcium deposit that usually occurs on the underside of a person’s foot.

Causes – Heel spurs occur when calcium deposits build up on the underside of the heel bone. This process usually occurs over many months. Heel spurs are often caused by strains on foot muscles and ligaments, continuous stretching of the plantar fascia, and repeated tearing or injuring of the membrane that envelopes the heel bone.

Symptoms – Heel spurs often cause no symptoms. However, heel spurs can cause intermittent or chronic pain while walking, jogging, or running. The cause of the pain is not the heel spur but the soft tissue injured from it.

Some describe heel spurs and associated plantar fasciitis as a knife or pin jabbing into the bottom of their feet when first standing up in the morning that fades into a dull ache. That sharp pain usually returns after standing up after sitting for a prolonged time.

Treatment – Heel spurs are treated by measures intended to decrease the associated inflammation while avoiding reinjury.

Local ice applications both reduce pain and inflammation
Anti-inflammatory medications, such as naproxen (Aleve) and ibuprofen (Advil), or injections of cortisone, are often helpful
Orthotic devices or shoe inserts can take pressure off plantar spurs (donut-shaped insert)
Heel lifts can reduce stress on the Achilles tendon to relieve painful bone spurs at the back of the heel

Tip: Sports or running shoes with soft, cushioned soles can be helpful in reducing irritation and discomfort of inflamed tissues from heel spurs.

Surgery may be performed on chronically inflamed spurs as a last resort.

Recovery Time – Healing can take a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the spur and how it is treated.

Note: Overweight patients or those who procrastinate seeing a doctor for a diagnosis are likely to suffer longer and are highly likely to have the pain come back.

Prevention – prevent heel spurs by wearing well-fitting shoes with rigid shanks and supportive heel counters. Warming up and stretching your feet before physical activity.

Claw Toe

Claw toes, as the name implies, are toes bent into an abnormal claw-like shape. This condition is also called mallet or hammertoe. The condition usually occurs in the four smaller toes of your foot in the middle and end joints.

Causes – Most of the time, an imbalance of foot muscles causes claw toes. Specifically, toe muscles will contract too far, tighten the tendons, and bend the joints. Foot muscles can become unbalanced due to the following:

Genetics
Poorly-fitting shoes
Polio
Cerebral palsy
Diabetic nerve damage
Rheumatoid arthritis
Osteoarthritis
Nerve damage caused by alcoholism
Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease
Spinal cord tumors
Stroke (the stroke-side foot is affected)
Physical trauma

Symptoms – Claw toe symptoms occur beyond the toes and can include:

Pain
Swelling
Corns
Calluses
Blisters

Note: Ulcers are a rare symptom, but they do occur.

Treatment – There are both nonsurgical and surgical treatments for claw toes. Most of them you can do at home. Nonsurgical treatments for claw toes include:

Wear pads, arch supports, or other shoe inserts to cushion the toe
Wear shoes with larger toe boxes, low heels, and good arch support
Wear shoes with increased width and depth, with soft soles and minimal seams in the toebox
Strengthen and stretch toe muscles through focused exercises
Use a splint or tape to hold your toes where they should sit
Avoid high heels
Avoid tight shoes

The severity of your claw toes will determine what type of surgery you’ll require. Your healthcare provider will categorize your claw toe as early or late stage, either flexible or rigid. Surgical treatments for claw toes include:

Temporarily inserting a steel pin to hold the toe in the correct position until healing occurs
Tendon lengthening and/or rerouting
Shortening the bones of the phalanx
Toe fusion

Recovery Time – For surgical treatments, you’ll need a minimum of 12 to 18 weeks of recovery time.

Prevention – Wear shoes that do not constrict your toes. Use exercises like extending, then curling the toes, splaying the toes, and moving the toes individually may help prevent the digital contracture that causes claw toe. Such exercises work to keep foot muscles strong and pliable.

Bunions

A bunion (hallux valgus) is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe.

Causes – Foot pressure caused by the way you walk or the shape of your foot causes your big toe to abnormally bend in toward the second toe. Bunions are gradually occurring.

Standing for long periods and wearing poorly-fitting, narrow shoes can exacerbate bunion pain but do not cause the problem.

Symptoms – A bunion will cause your big toe to bend inward, turn red and become swollen. Other symptoms include:

Claw toes (see above)
Numbness in the big toe
Trouble bending the big toe, or pain and burning when trying to bend it
Difficulty wearing regular or narrow shoes
Corns or calluses (thickened skin)

Tip: Many times, foot problems or disorders are actually symptoms of larger, more complicated conditions.

Treatment – Bunions don’t just go away. Treatment likely will focus on relieving symptoms and may include the following:

Orthotic devices: Over-the-counter or custom-made shoe inserts can help control toe alignment issues that may be contributing to bunion formation. You can also place a spacer between the big and second toe. Some people find relief by wearing a splint overnight to keep the big toe straight.
Footwear changes: Switching to shoes with wide, deep toe boxes can take pressure off of your toes.
Bunion pads and taping: Store-bought bunion pads can cushion the affected area and ease the pain. You can also use medical tape to keep the foot in the correct position.
Pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be combined with ice packs to help manage pain and swelling.
Therapy: Massage, physical therapy, and ultrasound therapy can break up soft-tissue adhesions, reducing pain and inflammation. There are exercises that can help improve muscle strength around the bunion and can improve alignment.
Injections: Steroid injections can reduce pain and swelling but may also cause damage if used too often or injected into the joint itself. This is typically a later stage bunion treatment when trying to avoid surgery.
Surgery: When nonsurgical treatments show little to no improvement and walking becomes extremely painful, your primary care physician/provider may recommend surgery. This surgery is referred to as a bunionectomy and removes the bunion while realigning bones to bring the big toe back into the correct position.

Recovery Time – For surgical treatments, you’ll need a minimum of 12 to 18 weeks of recovery time.

Prevention – The following can help you prevent painful bunions:

Note the shape of your feet as they age, especially if bunions run in your family
Exercise the feet to strengthen them
Only wear shoes that fit properly and avoid cramping or pinching your toes
Avoid shoes with high heels or pointed toes

Tip: Treat your feet to frequent spa days. Regular foot massages can help you detect and take early measures to avoid more serious conditions from developing.

Foot Problems

In this article, you discovered 7 of the most common and significant foot problems, their causes, how to treat them, and what you can do to prevent them.

Knowing what to do when foot problems occur can save you from developing more severe conditions that can last for years and cause significant pain.

Ignoring foot conditions and not taking action can leave you debilitated, and often requiring avoidable surgeries and extended periods of recovery time.

Sources:
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/plantar-fasciitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354851
my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15890-metatarsalgia
orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/plantar-fasciitis-and-bone-spurs
cdc.gov/healthywater/hygiene/disease/athletes_foot.html
health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/what-to-do-about-bunions
ipfh.org/foot-conditions/foot-conditions-a-z/metatarsalgia/prevention-and-treatment-of-metatarsalgia

Foot Palace Massage Spa Athens

196 Alps Rd Ste 31, Athens, GA 30606
(706) 521-5290

Foot Palace Massage Spa Braselton

2095 Highway 211 NW Suite 7B, Braselton, GA 30517
(678) 963-5958

Metatarsalgia Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

May 25, 2021 By Heather

Prevent excruciating Metatarsalgia foot pain from robbing you of mobility and the ability to be active. Knowing how to treat metatarsalgia and properly support your foot will help you get back to walking pain-free.

yourfootpalace.com gathered the following information about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of metatarsalgia.

What Is Metatarsalgia?

Named for the five metatarsal bones in the midsection of your feet connecting to the toes, metatarsalgia (met-uh-tahr-SAL-juh) is a common overuse condition affecting either or both feet in which the ball of your foot (the area between the arches and toes) becomes inflamed and painful.

What Causes Metatarsalgia?

You might develop this condition if you participate in intense athletic activities involving running and jumping. Metatarsalgia can also result from any or a combination of the following conditions:

Foot Deformities – Wearing shoes or heels that force your feet into awkward or unnatural positions.

Arthritis – Inflammatory arthritis like rheumatoid arthritis or gout can cause you to develop metatarsalgia.

Injuries – Any injury causing you to change your gait or shift your weight on either or both feet for a prolonged time.

Impacts – Impacts that cause bruising or swelling in the foot, particularly near the metatarsal bones.

Stress Fractures – Small breaks in the metatarsal or toe bones can severely alter how you apply weight to your feet.

Misalignment of One or More Toes – Can cause friction and irritation to the metatarsal bones.

Poorly Fitting Shoes – High heel shoes pose a challenge for the feet as they transfer extra weight to the front of the foot. Tight dress shoes (especially those with a narrow toe box) or athletic shoes without sufficient support or padding can quickly exacerbate this condition.

Excess Weight – Carrying extra weight means more pressure on your metatarsal bones when you move. Weight loss can minimize, if not eliminate, your metatarsalgia symptoms.

Morton’s Neuroma – This condition is the growth of fibrous tissue around a nerve, typically occurring between the third and fourth metatarsal heads; symptoms may feel strikingly similar to metatarsalgia but contribute to metatarsal stress/pressure.

What Are The Symptoms of Metatarsalgia?

Symptoms of Metatarsalgia are typically localized in or around the ball of your foot (the part of the sole behind the toes) and can include:

Aching or burning pain in the ball of the foot
Sharp or shooting pain in your toes
Numbness or tingling sensations in your toes
Pain that intensifies when walking, running, or exercising – and eases when resting
Constant sensation of having a pebble under your foot – in your shoe

Note: The principal symptom associated with metatarsalgia is a sharp, dull, or burning pain at the end of one or more of the metatarsal bones. metatarsalgia is not usually a “sudden pain.” Rather a buildup over several months.

How Is Metatarsalgia Diagnosed?

Many foot injuries, disorders, and pain can resemble the symptoms of metatarsalgia. If your pain continues after resting your feet and/or changing your footwear, it’s time to see your doctor. To help diagnose what is happening in your foot, your doctor may:

Physically examine your foot
Ask you to walk (to observe your gait)
Ask you questions about your activities and when the pain started
Take X-rays to rule out stress fractures
Take an ultrasound to identify bursitis, neuromas, and other soft tissue problems
Perform an MRI looking for signs of arthritis or other injuries
Take blood, testing for uric acid

Many tests are taken or performed to identify contributors to metatarsalgia or rule out other conditions, allowing your doctor to accurately prescribe treatments.

When attempting to diagnose your condition, you may be referred from your primary care physician or general practitioner to a bone specialist (orthopedist) or a foot specialist (podiatrist).

How Is Metatarsalgia Treated?

Metatarsalgia treatment is typically determined by the cause and severity of the condition and your pain. Many times, treatment for mild to moderate symptoms will include conservative measures like:

Staying off/Resting your feet
Changing your footwear
Use an orthotic sole insert
Use an arch support

When these measures fail to relieve your discomfort or pain, the following may ease your pain:

Ice your foot for 20 minutes multiple times per day
If you are overweight, lose weight
Use an over-the-counter pain reliever/anti-inflammatory (discuss the benefits and potential side-effects with your doctor before taking any medication)
Elevate your foot (above your waist) after activity

You may need to modify some of your activities like:

Avoid wearing shoes with high-heels
Take a break from high-impact sports
Change your exercise routine to exclude high-impact activities and include low-impact activities like swimming and cycling
Carve out the time for frequent relaxing spa days

Tip: A reflexology massage may relieve foot pain and discomfort, as it focuses on the foot’s pressure points.

When these measures fall short of relieving your pain, your doctor may recommend the following:

Work with a physical therapist who can give you a regimen of range-of-motion exercises and exercises to strengthen surrounding foot muscles. The therapist can also help you correct your gait.
Work with an occupational therapist who may fit you with customized orthotics, like a metatarsal pad or arch support.

When conservative treatment measures fail, your doctor may recommend surgery to realign your metatarsal bones.

Note: Leaving this condition untreated may result in your altering your gait. Such an alteration in your gait, even in the slightest, may lead to hip, leg, and lower back problems.

Treating Metatarsalgia

In this article, you discovered information about the many causes, symptoms, how to diagnose, and treatment options of metatarsalgia.

Taking action to diagnose and treat your metatarsalgia will help you recover your wellbeing and pain-free mobility.

Ignoring metatarsalgia can quickly lead to problems in your legs, hips, and lower back, resulting in astronomical medical fees when compared to getting the original problem addressed.

Sources:

my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15890-metatarsalgia
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/metatarsalgia/symptoms-causes/syc-20354790
syracusepodiatry.org/2015/11/metatarsalgia-a-pain-in-the-ball-of-the-foot/

Foot Palace Massage Spa Athens

196 Alps Rd Ste 31, Athens, GA 30606
(706) 521-5290

Foot Palace Massage Spa Braselton

2095 Highway 211 NW Suite 7B, Braselton, GA 30517
(678) 963-5958

Is It OK to Walk on a Sprained Ankle

September 16, 2020 By Heather

Prevent prolonged pain and suffering from your sprained ankle. By understanding how your sprained ankle needs to heal, you can be walking again in no time.

yourfootpalace.com gathered information on when you can walk on a sprained ankle, what a sprained ankle is, how to treat it, and when to seek medical attention.

Can You Walk on a Sprained Ankle

No. This is not an injury that you can “walk off.” After spraining your ankle, it will need time to recover before putting any weight on it. Trying to force a speedy recovery by walking, running, or working out too soon may further aggravate the damage done to your ankle in the first place.

The bones, muscles, and ligaments comprising the foot and ankle are significantly stronger and more reinforced than those in other parts of the body. When they are injured, a significant period of immobility may be required to fully recover.

As your ankle recovers from such an injury, weight can gradually be applied to it. Initially, walking should be aided by a support system like a cane or crutches.

Sprained Ankle Treatment

After sustaining a sprained ankle, your first objective is to decrease the pain and discomfort while protecting the ankle’s ligaments from further injury. Adopting the classic R.I.C.E. regimen of treatment for the first 24 to 48 hours can help:

Rest – Rest your ankle as much as possible.
Ice – Apply ice packs or submerge your foot and ankle in cold water.
Compression – Use an elastic ankle sleeve or an elasticized wrap to help reduce swelling.
Elevation – Elevate your ankle to the height of your hip when in a seated position.

Watch this video to see the RICE method for injuries.

Tip: Avoid hot showers, heat rubs, or hot packs, as this may increase swelling and prolong your recovery time.

Generally, within 72 hours, you can begin stretching and range-of-motion exercises. You should continue these exercises until your ankle has recovered to the point of pre-injury conditions.

Watch this video to see stretching and range-of-motion exercises.

Tip: A series of reflexology massages may significantly accelerate your recovery from a sprained ankle.

Note: Remaining immobile for extended periods without initiating some sort of exercise or rehabilitation regimen can lead to further complications or delays in your recovery.

How Long Does a Sprained Ankle Stay Swollen

Two weeks to six months. However, recovery time for a sprained ankle will vary from case to case, requiring different care and recovery approaches. This recovery time can change a lot based on:

Your fitness level
Your age
How bad (grade) the sprain is
How the sprain occurred
How much time passed before seeking treatment

As an example, recovery time for a grade one sprain is two weeks to a month. A grade two sprain can take from six to eight weeks. Finally, a grade three sprain may take anywhere from three to six months for recovery.

Note: After a sprained ankle heals, symptoms of arthritis and/or plantar fasciitis may occur. If these symptoms arise, seek medical attention to diagnose and treat these conditions.

Read more about relieving plantar fasciitis at yourfootpalace.com/how-foot-massage-can-relieve-your-plantar-fasciitis-pain/

What is a Sprained ankle

The injury known as a sprained ankle occurs when you twist, roll, or turn your ankle in an extended or abnormal way. This action stretches or tears the bands of tissue or ligaments that work to hold your ankle bones in place. The following activities are common causes of a sprained ankle:

Awkwardly landing on your foot after pivoting or jumping
Walking, running, or hiking on uneven surfaces
A trip or fall causing your ankle to twist
Another person sliding, stepping, or landing on your foot or ankle during a sports activity

Ligaments aid in the stabilization of joints, preventing extensive bone/joint movement. You sprain your ankle when those ligaments are forced, in a direction, beyond their normal range. The majority of sprained ankles include ligament injuries to the outer extremity of the ankle. The following symptoms indicate that you have sprained your ankle:

Pain (sharp pain when trying to bear weight on the injured foot)
Restricted mobility (reduced range of motion)
Tenderness or sensitivity to the touch
Instability (weakness in the affected ankle)
Swelling
Bruising

Watch this video from the Mayo Clinic, defining what an ankle sprain is.

These symptoms vary in intensity depending on the severity of your sprain. The following are grades of an ankle sprain:

Grade 1 – This injury includes minimal stretching with no ligament tearing. You will experience mild pain, swelling, and tenderness. Grade 1 sprains usually have no bruising, no joint instability, and no difficulty bearing your weight.

Grade 2 – This injury includes a partial tear. You will experience moderate pain, swelling, likely bruising, and tenderness. Grade 2 sprains usually have mild to moderate joint instability, loss of range of motion and function, and pain when bearing weight and/or walking.

Grade 3 – This injury includes a full ligament tear or rupture. You will experience severe pain, swelling, tenderness, and bruising. You will also have to endure considerable instability, loss of function, and limited range of motion. You will be unable to bear any weight or walk.

When Should I Seek Medical Attention for a Sprained Ankle

You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience the following:

You have prolonged severe pain or swelling
You have an open wound in the injury site
Your foot or ankle look deformed after being injured
There are signs of infection (redness, warmth, or tenderness)
You have a fever of 100°F or greater
You cannot put any weight on your foot at all

These symptoms indicate a possible bone fracture or secondary problem that should be quickly diagnosed and treated.

Tip: You may be asked to start a regimen of medication to manage your pain. Provide your doctor or care physician with a list of all medication (including over-the-counter medication) that you have been prescribed or taking prior to your injury.

Sprained Ankle

In this article, you discovered when you can walk on a sprained ankle, what a sprained ankle is, treatment, and when to see your doctor.

By knowing how to treat and how long recovery time lasts for a sprained ankle, you can minimize your discomfort and quickly regain your mobility after spraining your ankle.

Ignoring the need to relax and let your ankle properly heal can prolong your discomfort and severe medical or physical complications.

Sources:
orthopedicassociates.org/sprained-ankle-recovery-time/
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sprained-ankle/symptoms-causes/syc-20353225
health.harvard.edu/pain/recovering_from_an_ankle_sprain
uofmhealth.org/health-library/te7557#te7593

Foot Palace Massage Spa Athens

196 Alps Rd Ste 31, Athens, GA 30606
(706) 521-5290

Foot Palace Massage Spa Braselton

2095 Highway 211 NW Suite 7B, Braselton, GA 30517
(678) 963-5958

Stiff Feet in the Morning and After Sitting

August 17, 2020 By Heather

Prevent your foot stiffness from slowing you down and causing significant discomfort. By knowing why your feet uncomfortably stiffen up, you can take steps to keep them limber and pain-free.

yourfootpalace.com gathered information about why your feet get stiff after sleeping or sitting for extended periods, and what you can do to ease this discomfort.

Why Do My Feet Hurt in the Morning?

When your feet hurt in the morning or after sitting for long periods, it is a sign that something has gone awry. If that pain is frequent, excruciating, and leaving you debilitated, seek medical attention immediately. Otherwise, here are several possible reasons for your foot stiffness:

1 – Plantar Fasciitis

Foot stiffness after sitting and in the morning is a common symptom of plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a thick ligament on the bottom of your foot, running from the heel to the ball. This condition occurs when that ligament becomes irritated.

Plantar fasciitis is common for athletes, specifically runners. Wearing proper footwear and replacing your shoes every 400 to 500 miles can help prevent overuse pain. Other contributing factors are flat feet, rapid weight gain, and obesity.

If your discomfort is due to plantar fasciitis, it will usually take a few minutes of activity to warm up the area and relieve the pain.

Read more about plantar fasciitis pain relief at yourfootpalace.com/how-foot-massage-can-relieve-your-plantar-fasciitis-pain/

2 – Plantar Fascia Rupture

This excruciatingly painful condition can lead to stiffness during and long after the healing process. While rare, this condition can occur during high impact exercises or in those with chronic plantar fasciitis.

Treatment and recovery for a ruptured plantar fascia may include partial or complete immobilization of the foot, with normal standing or walking being possible within a few weeks.

3 – Plantar Warts (Verruca Plantaris)

Plantar warts can cause significant discomfort and are caused by a virus that specifically infects superficial layers of skin. When it occurs on the bottom of the foot, the virus will grow within the layer of skin (not protruding like other warts).

This is a virus, and there’s no oral medication to stop its occurrence. The virus must be treated at the infection site. Treatment may include topical acid preparations, freezing, injectable medications, and/or removal.

Plantar wart removal can be done in many ways, utilizing cautery agents, and/or laser removal techniques. However, whichever way your wart is removed, it can reoccur and spread.

Prevent plantar warts through good foot hygiene, limiting barefoot exposure outside, and disinfecting bathroom floors and shower basins.

4 – Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

Those with rheumatoid arthritis are at increased risk of developing plantar fasciitis, resulting in stiff feet in the morning or after long periods sitting (see #1 above).

Rheumatoid arthritis typically causes accompanying symptoms like inflammation, swelling, and pain in the wrists and hands, as well as the feet.

If you suspect rheumatoid arthritis is causing your discomfort, you may want to consult a rheumatologist. Rheumatologists are specialists that deal with arthritis and diseases involving bones, muscles, and joints.

5 – Achilles Tendinitis

The Achilles tendon is a band of tissues connecting the calf muscle to the heel bone. When this tendon becomes inflamed, it can result in Achilles tendinitis or stiffness and pain in the heel. Symptoms can be worse in the morning due to limited circulation while at rest.

If you have Achilles tendinitis, pain or discomfort may be felt throughout the day as well. Consult your primary care physician for advice on pain relief or seek a physiatrist (a doctor specializing in sports medicine or physical and rehabilitative medicine).

6 – Hypothyroidism

This condition results in the disruption of chemical and hormone balance in the body. Subsequently, this hypothyroidism can lead to inflammation, swelling, and discomfort in the feet, ankles, and heels.

Other symptoms of this condition include muscle weakness, depression, constipation, memory loss, among others. If you suspect you are dealing with hypothyroidism, consult your primary care physician for diagnosis and treatment.

Read more about hypothyroidism at thyroid.org/hypothyroidism/

7 – Bursitis

Bursas are fluid-filled sacs cushioning bones, tendons, and muscles near large joints in the body. They’re found in the hips, shoulders, elbow, and places like the heel and big toe of the foot.

Bursas in the foot can become inflamed due to excessive repetitive motion like walking, running, or jumping. Other causes of bursitis include injury or trauma to the affected area, inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and infection.

Treatment typically involves resting the area and protecting it from further trauma. In most cases, bursitis pain and discomfort goes away within a few weeks with proper treatment. Recurrent flare-ups of bursitis are common.

Consult your doctor if you are experiencing disabling joint pain or an inability to move a joint, especially if symptoms are accompanied by a fever. A fever is a strong indication of infection.

8 – Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease can cause muscle stiffness, discomfort, and significant difficulties initiating movement, including walking, speaking, and writing. The condition is accompanied by tremors, which may not be noticeable in its beginning phases.

If you are experiencing problems with coordinated body movement, involuntary body movements, evening time confusion, and dizziness, you should consult your primary care physician. However, if Parkinson’s is suspected, you will likely be referred to a movement disorder specialist – a neurologist with training to detect conditions like Parkinson’s.

For more information about Parkinson’s disease, visit yourfootpalace.com/parkinsons-disease-symptoms-diagnosis-stages-treatment/

9 – Stress Fracture

Stress fractures in your foot (usually the heel) can cause stiffness and increasing discomfort over time if not treated. Stress fractures are typically the result of intense athletic activity, overuse, change in surface, improper shoes, or poor technique.

A stress fracture might go unnoticed when it occurs, but pain and swelling can develop over days or weeks and eventually leave you in pain throughout the day with difficulties walking.

$Foot stress fractures sometimes go unnoticed until pain and swelling occur$

Stress fractures usually heal on their own with reduced physical activity and protective footwear. If you suspect you have sustained a stress fracture, consult your doctor as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment.

10 – Neuropathy

Stiff feet in the morning can result from problems in the nervous system and signal sense of the brain (neuropathic ideology). Among other diseases, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and vascular problems can contribute to this condition.

Neuropathy pain is described as a burning sensation. Affected areas can be sensitive to the touch. Common symptoms of neuropathic pain may include intolerable pain, pins and needles, difficulty sensing temperatures, and numbness.

If you suspect neuropathy is causing stiffness in your feet, consult a podiatrist, your family physician, or a neurologist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Read more about neuropathy pain and relief at yourfootpalace.com/how-massage-relieve-your-peripheral-neuropathy-pain/

Treatment for Stiff Feet

Besides buying better-fitting shoes, the following forms of treatment can help ease mild or moderate stiffness and discomfort in the feet:

Apply Ice – Freeze a few water bottles. When you get up in the morning, wrap a bottle in a towel and roll it gently from the ball of your foot to the heel and back, repeating this for a few minutes.

Stretch – Stretches work to loosen muscles and tendons and, when practiced daily, can improve one’s health and wellness significantly. The following heel and arch stretch can help relieve foot stiffness and relax tense muscles:

At arm’s length from a wall, step back with your right foot and bend your left knee, keeping both feet and heels on the ground.
Slowly lean forward as far as you can as you stretch.
Hold the position for 10 seconds, then relax.
Switch feet and repeat.

Watch this video for more easy stretching for your feet.

Massage – Massaging your feet is synonymous with self-care. Consider the following:

Hold your foot in your hand and apply gentle pressure along the top and bottom of the foot and heel area with your thumb.
Roll a tennis ball along the bottom of your foot back and forth from toes to heel.
Schedule a reflexology foot massage.

If you are experiencing sharp or sudden pain, or your condition lasts longer than two days, consult your doctor. Sharp and sudden pain may be an indication of a more severe condition and should be addressed immediately.

My Feet Hurt When I Wake Up and After Sitting

In this article, you discovered conditions that can cause your feet to stiffen while resting or sitting, how to relieve tension in your feet, and when to seek medical attention.

By addressing the stiffness in your feet, you can keep them free from discomfort and pain, maintain your mobility, and boost your sense of health and wellness.

Ignoring abnormalities like stiffness, discomfort, and pain in your feet can exacerbate underlying health problems, and lead to the need for costly medical treatment.

Sources:
cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/p/plantar-fasciitis.html
diabetes.org/diabetes/complications/neuropathy
orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/stress-fractures-of-the-foot-and-ankle/
rheumatology.org/I-Am-A/Patient-Caregiver/Diseases-Conditions/Rheumatoid-Arthritis
foothealthfacts.org/conditions/plantar-wart-(verruca-plantaris)
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bursitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353242

Foot Palace Massage Spa Athens

196 Alps Rd Ste 31, Athens, GA 30606
(706) 521-5290

Foot Palace Massage Spa Braselton

2095 Highway 211 NW Suite 7B, Braselton, GA 30517
(678) 963-5958

How Massage Can Relieve Your Peripheral Neuropathy Pain

August 23, 2019 By Heather

Does your peripheral neuropathy pain have you immobile and living a restricted quality of life? Through massage, you can ease the symptoms of this debilitating condition.

yourfootpalace.com gathered information about peripheral neuropathy, its symptoms, causes, and how massage can alleviate your pain.

What is Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition resulting from damaged or diseased nerves that relay information to and from the brain and spinal cord, from and to the body’s skin, muscles, and internal organs.

In the United States, over 3 million new cases of peripheral neuropathy are identified annually. Currently, there is no cure for this condition, but some treatments can help.

Symptoms – Depending on the type of nerves affected, symptoms may vary. The following include symptoms from motor nerves (muscle movement), autonomic nerves (internal organs and processes), and sensory nerves (sensations like heat and touch);

• Numbness or tingling
• Sharp pain
• Extreme skin sensitivity
• Muscle weakness
• Paralysis
• Changes in blood pressure
• Heat intolerance
• Loss of coordination
• Bowel and bladder problems

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience pain, weakness, or unusual tingling sensations in your hands or feet that spread to your arms or legs.

Causes – There are many ways that nerves can be or become damaged, including external, internal, and hereditary influences. The following are potential causes for peripheral neuropathy:

• Diabetes
• Chemotherapy
• Kidney failure
• Alcoholism
• Hereditary disorders
• Tumors
• Autoimmune diseases
• Trauma or pressure
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Injuries
• Surgery

Sometimes, no cause can be found and is referred to as idiopathic neuropathy.

Massage Therapy for Peripheral Neuropathy Pain Relief

There are many types of massage used to treat stress, anxiety, pain, neuropathy, and illness. Below are some of the techniques that can relieve the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy:

• Connective Tissue Massage or Fascial Stretch – Connective tissue massage involves working with the body’s fascia, or soft tissue, to relieve pain, stiffness, and discomfort. Some benefits include pain reduction, tension relief, increased mobility, and stress reduction.

• Massotherapy – Massotherapy focuses primarily on the muscles. Massotherapy benefits include improved circulation and pain management.

• Reflexology – Reflexology is based on a map of pressure points on the hands, feet, and ears that correspond to specific areas of the body. Similar to acupressure, applying appropriate pressure to these points can stimulate the flow of energy throughout the body. Benefits include increased blood flow, pain relief, eased stress, and profound relaxation.

For more information about the application and benefits of reflexology, visit yourfootpalace.com/reflexologist-massage-in-athens-ga/

• Lymph Drainage Therapy (LDT) – This technique uses light, rhythmic strokes to promote the body’s lymph system health. Benefits include reduced inflammation or edemas and pain relief from neuropathy.

• Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT) – NMT is a massage technique applied to specific muscles to increase blood flow, ease muscle tension, or release pain/pressure on nerves.

If massage therapy fails to alleviate the symptoms of your condition, your primary care physician may recommend medical treatment.

Peripheral Neuropathy Medical Treatment

Medical treatment for peripheral neuropathy involves managing or targeting the condition causing the neuropathy and relieving the symptoms.

Depending on the type and cause of your neuropathy, one or a combination of the following treatments may be suggested or prescribed you:

Topical Treatment – Medicated creams and patches may be used to offer some pain relief.

Pain Relievers – Over-the-counter medication, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs that reduce pain, lower fever, prevent blood clots, and decrease inflammation.

In more severe cases, your doctor may prescribe painkillers such as tramadol, or oxycodone. As these drugs can lead to addiction and dependence, they are generally prescribed only when other treatments fail.

Antidepressants – Some tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline and nortriptyline, can help relieve neuropathy pain. They do this by interfering with the chemical processes occurring in your brain and spinal cord, causing you to feel pain.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) – This procedure involves electrodes placed on the skin (in the affected area) that deliver an electric current at varying frequencies.

Physical Therapy – For muscle weakness, physical therapy may improve your movements. In more severe cases, you may need physical therapy to learn how to use hand or foot braces, a walker, or even a wheelchair.

Surgery – If your neuropathy is caused by pressure on nerves by tumors or abnormal growths, surgery may be a viable option to reduce or relieve that pressure.

Massage therapy may be used in conjunction with medical treatments (when cleared by your physician) to target specific conditions or symptoms.

It is always recommended to consult your primary care physician before using any type of therapy or medication to relieve the symptoms of neuropathy. The misuse or consumption of inaccurate doses of medication can potentially worsen or compound the underlying cause.

Neuropathy Pain and Treatment

Peripheral neuropathy can cause severe pain and discomfort that may leave you with a sense of instability and lead to grave health consequences. You can find relief from pain and relieve the symptoms of this condition by understanding neuropathy and how to treat it.

In this article, you discovered what peripheral neuropathy is, what symptoms to watch for, the various causes of the condition, and treatment options that can aid in your recovery.

Your immediate action to seek medical assistance at the first sign of neuropathy symptoms can avert the worsening of the condition and its development into something far worse.

Sources:
foundationforpn.org/what-is-peripheral-neuropathy/causes/
piedmont.org/living-better/benefits-of-hand-and-foot-massage-for-neuropathy
mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/peripheral-neuropathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20352061

Foot Palace Massage Spa Athens

196 Alps Rd Ste 31, Athens, GA 30606
(706) 521-5290

Foot Palace Massage Spa Braselton

2095 Highway 211 NW Suite 7B, Braselton, GA 30517
(678) 963-5958

Three Common Foot Problems – Symptoms and Treatment

June 24, 2019 By Heather

Do your feet hurt? That pain may represent a grave illness which can lead to severe debilitation or amputation if not addressed.

Our feet carry much more than our weight, they are responsible for our mobility and our physical stability. When something goes wrong with your feet, it should be addressed immediately before developing into something far more serious.

yourfootpalace.com gathered information on three common foot problems, their symptoms, and best treatment options.

Athlete’s Foot Symptoms and Treatment

Athlete’s foot, known as tinea pedis or ringworm of the foot, is a fungal infection affecting the feet. The fungus’ bacteria is easily transmitted from person to person by skin contact or any other contaminated surface. The infection typically appears first between the toes, and may spread like a rash to other parts of the feet, including infecting, thickening, and discoloring toenails.

Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot – The following symptoms may vary from person to person and in intensity:

• Itching, burning, stinging, peeling skin, or wounds between the toes
• Itchy rashes or blisters
• Dry, flaky skin on the soles or sides of your feet
• Cracking and peeling skin on the soles and heels
• Raw, itchy skin on your feet
• Discolored or deformed toenails

If you are experiencing any, or a combination of these symptoms, contact your primary care physician. Treating athlete’s foot may require medication and possible changes in hygiene. You may be referred to a podiatrist (foot doctor) or dermatologist (skin doctor). However, in most cases, your primary care physician can treat your infection successfully.

The following are used to treat athlete’s foot:

Topical Over The Counter (OTC) – Cremes, sprays, and ointments containing clotrimazole or terbinafine hydrochloride are effective in reversing the effects of athlete’s foot in its early stages.

Prescription Topical Medication – More severe cases of athlete’s foot may require more aggressive treatment. Your doctor may prescribe a topical medication containing:

• Ketoconazole
• Oxiconazole
• Sertaconazole
• Sulconazole
• Naftifine
• Clotrimazole
• Econazole
• Butenafine
• Ciclopirox
• Clotrimazole-betamethasone

Prescription Oral Medication – Prescription oral medication typically clears up infections much faster than topical applications. When necessary, the following oral medication may be prescribed:

• Terbinafine (Lamisil)
• Itraconazole (Sporanox)

While using oral anti-fungal drugs, there is a risk of developing hepatoxicity (chemical-driven liver damage) exacerbated by pre-existing liver disease, chemical components of the drug, drug to drug interactions, environmental factors, and patient demographics. Your doctor may occasionally request blood tests to evaluate and monitor the effects on your liver.

Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms and Treatment

The plantar fascia is a band of deep tissue running from the heel bone to the toes. Plantar fasciitis injuries typically result from overuse, commonly occurring from repetitive actions involving running or jumping. It may also be related to bad or abnormal foot mechanics, improper, or poorly fitting footwear.

Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms – Plantar fasciitis is the deformation or a tear of this tissue. It may cause the following:

• Irritation
• Inflammation
• Pain

Some other factors that increase your risk of developing plantar fasciitis may include:

Age – Plantar fasciitis occurs more commonly in people between the ages of 30 and 60.
Obesity – Extra weight can stress the plantar fascia.
Standing – Long term standing on hard surfaces can damage the tissue.

The following treatment and tips may provide relief:

Wear Appropriate Footwear – Use footwear with a good fit, avoiding flat soles with little to no support.

Rest and Stretch – Rest is one key to recovery in cases of overuse. Combining that with daily stretching exercises and frequent massages will aid in the recovery process.

Use a Splint – A splint used at night can help keep your foot and ankle in the proper position while you sleep.

Ice Treatment – Roll your foot on a frozen water bottle for several minutes two to four times per day, or apply an ice pack to the bottom of your foot for 15 minutes, two to three times a day.

If the pain continues, consult your primary care physician.

For more on plantar fasciitis read yourfootpalace.com/how-foot-massage-can-relieve-your-plantar-fasciitis-pain/ and to schedule a foot massage, visit yourfootpalace.com

Diabetic Neuropathy Symptoms and Treatment

Nerve damage from diabetes is called diabetic neuropathy. Some form of nerve damage occurs in half of all those affected by diabetes.

Symptoms of Diabetic Neuropathy – The following symptoms may occur in those experiencing neuropathy:

• Lack of coordination, stumbling and falling
• Muscle weakness
• Numbness, prickling or tingling in the feet or hands
• Extreme sensitivity
• Pain during normal activities
• The sensation of wearing socks when you’re not
• Paralysis
• Heat intolerance

Treatment for Diabetic Neuropathy – Early treatment for those who already have nerve damage will help prevent or delay further damage:

• Keep your blood glucose levels on target
• Meal Planning
• Physical Activity
• Medication

The two ways to keep track of your blood glucose levels are:

• Use a blood glucose meter to guide you in adjusting your day-to-day care.
• Get an A1C test at least twice a year to reveal your average blood glucose for the past 2 to 3 months.

By checking your blood glucose levels regularly, you can detect whether your diabetes care plan is working or if changes may be needed. Make your feet a priority by:

• Paying attention to and taking care of your feet.
• Seeking immediate medical treatment if you experience heightening symptoms or problems.
• Using lotion on your skin for dry feet, and wear shoes and socks that fit well.
• Using warm water to wash your feet and drying them thoroughly.
• Checking your feet multiple times per day. A foot injury may go unnoticed if you are unable to feel pain. Injuries that become infected or left unattended may lead to severe health complications, including amputation.
• Special shoes may be required, and Medicare may pay for them. Ask your physician about this.
• Changes in your everyday routine may be required. Consult your physician on which exercises and activities should be avoided or altered to prevent foot injuries.

Use your eyes to inspect your feet, and use a mirror to see the bottoms of your feet. Using your hands, feel for bumps, and dry skin. Look for corns, calluses, blisters, swelling, ingrown toenails, and toenail infections. If you cannot see or reach your feet, get help from a friend, family member, or from your foot doctor.

For more detailed information about diabetic neuropathy, visit mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/peripheral-neuropathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20352061

Foot Pain and Common Problems

When your feet are hurting, don’t second guess it. Address it! When something goes wrong with your feet, treatment is usually simple and can be accomplished by making minor adjustments in your daily routine.

In this article, you discovered three common foot problems, their symptoms, and easy ways to treat them.

Ignoring your foot problems can lead to serious health risks, and when your foot pain is caused by a health problem, not treating it can lead to grave consequences.

Sources:
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/chronic-heel-pain-4-simple-fixes-for-your-plantar-fasciitis/
http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/complications/neuropathy/

Foot Palace Massage Spa Athens

196 Alps Rd Ste 31, Athens, GA 30606
(706) 521-5290

Foot Palace Massage Spa Braselton

2095 Highway 211 NW Suite 7B, Braselton, GA 30517
(678) 963-5958