Dealing With Foot And Ankle Problems

20 March 2017
 Categories: , Blog


There are foot and ankle conditions that can happen if you do things that put you at a higher risk. Sometimes these conditions can also happen simply because you are more prone to them. If you find yourself suffering from one of these conditions you can try to treat them at home. These home remedies can help you to feel better while you wait to get in to see your podiatrist for professional treatment.

Plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is caused by an injury, bruise, or inflammation to the long tendon that runs the length of your foot, known as the plantar fascia. When aggravated, the pain will hurt along the sole of the foot and is usually the most painful near the heel. It also tends to be at its worst first thing in the morning. Rubbing essential oils like frankincense, peppermint, or lavender on your foot can help the pain subside. You can also get relief by rolling something frozen under the bottom of your feet. You can use a small frozen water bottle, frozen golf balls, or even large frozen marbles. You may find you have a much easier time rising from bed if you also take a few extra moments in the morning to stretch your feet and gently massage them with your hands and some lotion.

Bunions

Bunions are bony bumps that happen due to irregular growth in the inner portion of your joint located at the base of your big toe. Bunions can cause pain and make it hard for you to find shoes that fit comfortably. When you are experiencing a flare up of pain and irritation you can get some relief by massaging some warm olive oil into the area for about 15 minutes a couple of times a day. You can also crush some ice, put it in a dry towel, and hold it on the bunion for a few minutes. You can repeat this process throughout the day.

Injured ankle

If you sprain or twist your ankle, then the first thing you want to do is to take weight off of it immediately by sitting. You should crush ice, put it in a dry towel, and hold it against your ankle. Once you remove the ice you should use an ace bandage to immobilize and support your ankle. While you want the bandage to be wrapped tight enough to support your ankle, you also want to make sure it isn't so tight that it restricts blood flow. Check it often since your ankle may continue swelling. You should use crutches to get around so you don't put weight on your ankle. Get in to the podiatrist as soon as you can for proper treatment and go to the emergency room if it hurts extremely bad or swells up a lot or if it will be a while before the podiatrist can see you. Also, if you feel you may have fractured your foot, go in immediately. If the podiatrist is closed, then go to the emergency room.

Contact a professional like Jeffrey M Marks DPM to learn more.


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