Stop Doing These Things If You Want to Avoid Foot Pain

Foot pain is a common problem for people all over the world. According to a 2019 study, the prevalence of the issue might be as high as 36% in some groups. Still, it doesn’t have to be a part of your life.

At Foot + Ankle Specialty Centers, we’re always happy to help treat your foot pain in one of our five Arizona locations. But whatever the cause of your discomfort, there are steps you can take to avoid this kind of pain.

Our providers — Payam Sarraf, DPM, Kate Kennedy, DPM, Katy Statler, DPM, Andrew Goodeill, DPM, Christopher Van Damme, DPM, Amelia Harris, DPM, and Sina Safar, DPM — are available to offer advice and techniques for treating foot pain.

Causes of foot pain

Foot pain can be caused by many factors, some of which may be converging to create multiple problems. Certain causes — like aging — may be out of your control. But others can certainly be treated.

Conditions like bunions, ingrown toenails, Achilles tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis may require treatment at our office to ensure the best recovery with limited risks of complications.

But sometimes, foot pain is simply related to voluntary activities you can stop to avoid discomfort.

5 things to stop doing to avoid foot pain

1. Wearing improper shoes

Wear shoes that are comfortable and offer support. There are many brands our team can suggest. Also, avoid wearing shoes that are too tight or loose, and ditch the high heels!

2. Shaping your toenails

There’s nothing wrong with pampering yourself. But if you enjoy giving yourself pedicures, make sure to cut your toenails straight across. That reduces your risk of ingrown toenails and the discomfort they cause, especially if they get infected.

3. Eating inflammatory foods

Inflammation is associated with many foot pain issues. One of the easiest ways to minimize inflammation is to avoid foods that cause it. Cut back on red meat, fast foods, and anything with excess sugar, including sweets, heavily processed foods, and sodas.

4. Avoiding rest

Whether you love playing sports or you have a job that requires you to be on your feet all day, make sure to alternate between sitting and standing as much as possible. Rest after exerting yourself, and don’t push yourself past your limit or you’ll just end up with more discomfort.

5. Getting dehydrated

Dehydration can cause cramping in the feet, especially if you’re exerting yourself. Again, if you’re often on your feet, make sure you drink plenty of water. And even if you’re not, keeping yourself hydrated is essential to optimal health.

Keep your feet happy

At our five Arizona locations, we’re happy to provide treatments for foot pain as well as ideas for how to avoid it in the future. Call or use this website to schedule an appointment; we’re happy to help!