Many people suffer from foot and ankle pain at some point. It’s one of the most common types of pain reported. Here we’ll look at some of the most common causes of foot and ankle pain and what you can do to find relief.
Common causes of foot and ankle pain
Foot and ankle pain is a common problem that can significantly impact your quality of life. According to BioMed Central, many people reported having foot and ankle joint pain: 184.33 per 1000. There are many potential causes of foot and ankle pain, and it is crucial to work with a healthcare professional to identify the source of your pain.
Here are some of the most common causes:
- Arthritis is a common cause of foot and ankle pain, especially as we age. There are many different types of arthritis, but all can cause joint pain and stiffness.
- Achilles tendonitis: This inflammation connects the calf muscle to the heel. It’s a common cause of pain in the heel and ankle, especially in runners.
- Fractures: A fracture can occur in any bone but is particularly common in the foot and ankle due to the high stress on these bones.
- Plantar fasciitis: This condition causes pain in the heel and arch of the foot, often caused by overuse or injury to the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot.
- Sprains and strains: These common injuries can develop when there is an overstretched ligaments or muscles in the foot and ankle. Overuse, trauma, or inappropriate footwear can all contribute to them.
- Nerve pain: Several conditions causes nerve pain. These include diabetes, spinal cord compression, or nerve entrapment. It can lead to pain, numbness, or tingling in the foot and ankle.
Other possible causes include:
- Gout
- Peripheral artery disease
- Plantar warts
What can you do to alleviate the pain?
Foot and ankle pain can range from mild to severe, and the best way to treat it will depend on the underlying cause. Some home remedies that may help include:
- Rest: Avoiding activities that aggravate the pain
- Elevation: Keeping the foot and ankle elevated above the level of the heart
- Compression: sing an Ace wrap or similar product to support the foot and ankle
- Ice: Applying ice to the affected area for 20 minutes several times a day
- Exercise: Stretching and strengthening exercises can help to improve range of motion and relieve pain
Medical News Today suggests walking barefoot on sand to help improve your foot and calf flexibility and strength. If home remedies don’t provide relief, or if the pain is severe, you should see a doctor. They not only provide pain relief but also diagnose the cause of your discomfort and create a plan to cure the condition.
We’re the experts in foot and ankle pain relief.
At Arizona Specialty Hospital, our expert staff can help you find relief from your foot or ankle pain. We provide a customer-focused atmosphere that prioritizes quality in all orthopedic and spine surgery areas.
Our physicians are among the most experienced in the Phoenix, Arizona Metro Area, providing you with the best possible care. Contact a physician today to schedule an appointment.