Top 6 Foot Pain Remedies
If your “dogs are barking” after a long day, your feet are trying to tell you something. Quieting foot discomfort may be easier than you think. Many people find relief by making a simple change in shoe fit or style or changing some everyday habits to prioritize foot comfort and health. In this blog, we’ll explore the top 6 remedies to soothe your soles and get you back on your feet.
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Dump Your Old Shoes
Did you know your shoes have a set distance life expectancy? We all try to stretch the lifespan of our shoes and it’s understandable given the cost. And, it can be so hard to part with a favorite pair. However, the more miles you put on your shoes the less they take care of your feet.
Foot pain is one way your feet communicate that there is a problem. Not only uncomfortable, hanging on to old shoes can exacerbate injuries. Replacing shoes when they become worn is a great prevention habit that can save you from back pain, strains, or injury
Are you listening to What Your Shoes are Trying to Tell You? Read more here.
Prioritize Supportive Footwear
Our biggest tip for alleviating foot pain is to stop buying all your shoes online. Even within the same line by the same manufacturer, shoes vary in size and fit,. While online shopping is very convenient, you may sacrifice proper fit and specialized support as a result. Prioritizing comfort and proper support can alleviate pain over time. Your feet change size & shape many times in your lifetime, so we recommend having your feet measured and your shoes professionally fit.
Don’t Go Barefoot
The occasional barefoot stroll through the grass can be invigorating, going without shoes more long term can be detrimental to the biometrics of the foot. Footwear provides important structural support, comfort, and protection from a wide variety of threats, including sharp objects on the ground, pests, heat, sunburn, and invisible germs. Also, our feet were not designed to walk on hard surfaces like concrete, tile and wood.
According to Dr. Miguel Cunha, a podiatrist and owner of Gotham Footcare in New York, over the long run, going shoeless can accelerate the formation of bunions and hammertoes, or lead to conditions such as plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and Achilles tendonitis. Reduce the temptation and make it easier to slip on supportive shoes or sandals by keeping them by the door, add a backup pair in your beach bag, or car.
Limit your Heel Time
Standing all day can cause, or worsen heel pain, and general foot pain across any area of your foot. However, standing for long periods is often a requirement for some jobs or certain hobbies and can’t always be avoided. If rest periods are not an option, don’t skimp on comfortable shoes with good support and heel cushion and invest in quality, breathable socks. The best shoes for healthy feet mimic the foot’s natural shape, while offering support in the arch and a supportive sole underneath
Read more about the importance of socks in Sock Talk.
Are Custom Orthotics Necessary?
For persistent foot pain not alleviated by new shoes and changing habits, custom orthotics may provide needed relief. QUADRASTEP® is a more affordable alternative to custom shoe inserts and are carefully designed to help with a variety of conditions. Unlike custom orthotics products, QUADRASTEP® does not require any fabrication or delivery time.
This system is ideal for those who are experiencing pain or mobility issues, but don’t require a custom shoe insert. They are the closest you can get to a custom orthotic without the expense of custom fabrication or the need to visit the doctor. Our experts will also help you find the right product to help with your concerns. Peterson Shoes is the only shoe store in Minnesota that carries this unique product.
Read more about how Quadrastep Custom Orthotics can relieve foot pain here.
Consult a Professional
It is very tempting to self-diagnose a foot problem or pain by going to your favorite online medical source. While this may give you some ideas on what could be causing your problem, serious foot pain deserves a full medical analysis to determine an exact diagnosis. Talk to your doctor and stop buying all your shoes online. Have your gait and biometrics reviewed by a Certified Pedorthist (like us).
If you experience foot pain, that is your sign that something isn’t right. We recommend you see your family doctor or a podiatrist first, and then let Peterson Shoes be your partner to provide the footwear and foot care solutions for your specific needs. Stop in to Peterson Shoes to speak with a Certified Pedorthist for foot care solutions, Including help choosing the right shoes and insoles for your feet.
Peterson Shoes is a family-owned shoe store and shoe repair shop serving the Andover, Anoka, Brooklyn Park, Coon Rapids and Minneapolis areas. We specialize in orthotic shoe inserts, shoes for plantar fasciitis and shoes for tendinitis. Come check out our selection of Women’s shoes, apparel and accessories, and Men’s shoes at 209 E. Main Street, Anoka, MN. Or shop our selection online anytime.