Getting Help With My Toes

Three Healthy Habits That Can Reduce Plantar Fasciitis Pain

13 January 2016

Arianna Nguyen

When you've developed plantar fasciitis in one or both feet, every step you take can create a burning pain that drastically decreases your mobility. Your best solution for dealing with this common foot-related issue is to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. During your appointment, this foot expert will assess the likely reason for your condition, put you through a series of exercises that can start to alleviate your pain and even measure your feet so that you can have custom shoe inserts made for comfort. If it's still a few days before your appointment and you're eager to find rapid relief, here are three things you can do on your own.

Get Off Your Feet

It might sound simple, but with plantar fasciitis, the longer you spend on your feet, the more pain you'll experience. Staying off your feet might seem easier said than done, but it's possible to change some of your daily routines to sit instead of stand. For example, instead of standing at the kitchen counter to prepare a meal, take the essential ingredients and kitchen utensils to the table and sit down while you work. Instead of standing to watch your child's sporting event, simply take a folding chair or find a bench. The more time you spend sitting down, the less plantar fasciitis pain you'll be dealing with.

Find Comfortable Shoes

While you'll be able to get some comfort-causing shoe inserts following your podiatry appointment, start putting proper attention on your choice of footwear right away. Make a point of always wearing comfortable shoes when you're out and about -- skip the stylish high heels or casual flip-flops in favor of shoes that have a soft insole and provide as much support as possible. Pledge to avoid going barefoot, as walking without shoes can make your pain significantly stronger. Even around home, opt for thick-soled slippers or clean off the soles of a pair of running shoes and use them indoors.

Just Add Ice

The application of ice is an ideal way to reduce the inflammation in your foot that is causing pain. Hold an ice pack on the sole of your foot where it's sore -- typically, you'll experience pain that runs between the heel and the ball of the foot. You can apply ice multiple times throughout the day, but it's important to limit each icing session to a maximum of 20 minutes to avoid damaging your skin.

To learn more, contact a podiatry clinic like Collier Podiatry PA. 

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