

“For example, Voltaren just recently became over-the-counter. “Some are specially compounded at the pharmacy and others are over-the-counter,” he said. There are topical medications that can be used as well. “Acetaminophen helps the pain but doesn’t reduce inflammation.” “Remember that ibuprofen is the only one that reduces inflammation that can lead to the current pain,” Dr.

Many people use acetaminophen and ibuprofen to relieve foot pain. “We also make custom orthotics for patients when needed. This can give support to your foot structure and help reduce painful prominences or areas of the foot.” Pain relievers and topical creams “There are many good inserts one can try including, PowerSteps and Superfeet,” he said. Leonard recommends trying a good over-the-counter insole. “If you have new shoes, get used to the new level of activity so you don’t create blisters and new problems. A slow increase in activity is always recommended.”įor extra support, Dr. “Also, if you’re going to increase your activity and start a new exercise program, be careful with your shoes,” he said. “And be cautious of high heels, flip-flops or cheap canvas shoes – they can lead to injury and they lack a lot of good general support. “When selecting a shoe for whatever the occasion, be proactive, protective and think about being preventive,” he said. Wearing an incorrect shoe size can impact the health of your feet, Dr. When choosing a shoe, find one that has a low heel and fits the foot in length, width and depth while you are in a standing position. “Having a supportive shoe with a good insert will not only help you with your daily aches and pains but may prevent injuries from occurring.” “Always invest in your shoes. Spending money on a good shoe is important,” Dr.

Push the hips forward, until the Achilles tendon and calf muscles can be felt stretching.Place one foot back, keeping the knee straight.Face a wall and raise the arms, so that the palms rest flat against the wall.“Lunges against the wall and dropping the heel below a stair or level surface can help ease pain.” “Stretching of the heel cord is beneficial to reduce the strain on the foot and help to improve heel pain,” he said. Elevation: The foot or ankle should be raised slightly above the level of your heart to reduce swelling.Ī tight heel cord ( Achilles tendon) goes along with one of the most common problems Dr.Compression:An elastic wrap should be used to control swelling.Ice for 20 minutes, then wait at least 40 minutes before icing again. Ice:Apply an ice pack to the injured area using a thin towel between the ice and the skin.Rest:Stay off the injured foot or ankle as walking may cause further injury.This simple self-care technique helps reduce swelling, ease pain and speed up healing.įollow these steps from the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons: “Many times, we will recommend RICE (rest, ice, compression and elevation) for things such as ankle sprains or foot injuries.”
Best way to relax feet cracked#
Apply moisturizer to dry feet following the soak to prevent cracked feet and irritation. To make an Epsom foot bath, the Farmers’ Almanac recommends adding one-half cup Epsom salt to a container of warm water large enough to submerge your feet. “I have no objections to this as long as you check the water temperature to make sure the temperature is not too hot,” he said.Ī warm Epsom salt foot bath can relieve sore muscles and reduce swelling in your feet. Some patients find warm water and Epsom salts soothing, Dr. “Obesity is known to increase the risk for diabetes, which certainly has risks associated with the feet. Our goal is to keep our patients active and healthy, which includes maintaining a healthy weight.” A good soak “Maintaining a healthy weight is always a goal for our patients, as it reduces stress and strain on your feet in general,” Dr. Marc Leonard, DPM, an OSF HealthCare podiatrist. Some causes of foot pain can be relieved through stretching exercises, orthotics, well-fitting shoes and other preventive steps, said W.
