Our feet truly take a beating every day. It is no wonder that foot pain is a very common issue among all ages in chiropractic health care. The source of the pain can be due to a problem in any area of the foot. So how can you keep a step ahead of foot pain? Narrow down the root of the pain and take care of your very important feet!

Did you know: Each foot is an intricate structure composed of 26 bones, 33 joints, 126 muscles, ligaments, and nerves and a whopping 250,000 sweat glands!

Pain in your Heels
The most common cause of pain in your heels is a symptom called Plantar fasciitis. This is caused when the band of tissue that connects your toes to your heel bone becomes irritated or inflamed due to small tears in the tissue. Causes of this can include being overweight, wearing improperly supported shoes, starting a new workout routine or simply being on your feet for extended periods of time. To stay a step ahead:

• Invest in a pair of shoes with good support and that are made specifically for your workplace (i.e. restaurant, etc) or physical activity (i.e. running, etc)
• Purchase shoe inserts specifically designed for plantar fasciitis
• Stay at a healthy weight (this is not just for your feet but for your overall health)
• Establish a practical workout routine and increase the intensity level gradually

Additional symptoms of pain in your heels include heel spurs, stone bruises and heel bone fractures. Luckily, most heel spurs and stone bruises can be healed or prevented by inserts, custom orthotics, rest and over the counter pain relievers; whereas, fractures may need rest from weight bearing including crutches, physical therapy and even surgery.

Pain in the ball of your Foot

Metatarsalgia causes pain in the ball or arch of your foot, usually from strenuous activity or ill-fitting shoes.To stay a step ahead:

• Wear more comfortable shoes or wear inserts to support your arch
• Invest in a pair of custom made orthotics

Our feet often can be taken for granted! Simple treatments such as rest, calf, toe and muscle stretches can keep you a step ahead from suffering from foot pain. Take good care of your feet, and they will take care of you!