Common Foot Conditions: How to Effectively Treat Shin Splints and Heel Pain

When your feet feel very tired, in pain, and overused, the discomfort frequently can turn excruciating. Jogging, sports activities and the like can place tremendous strain on our feet, and cause issues with our tendons, muscles, and bones. Aching sores, bunions, and shin splints can make even walking a painful undertaking. Nevertheless, there are several options that can help manage the pain and heal the injuries when performed on a regular basis. Here are three ways to help your feet heal so you can get back to your life.

How to Overcome Blisters and Skin Challenges

Footwear that is too tight  can cause a range of foot problems, specifically blisters. They can develop on all areas of the foot, however the bony nub on the heel is the most usual site. Given that the skin is the largest organ in our bodies, and accountable for being our first defense against germs, a blister ideally should not be popped intentionally.  Most doctors suggest the use of moleskin as an effective alternative for shielding an un-popped blister to prevent it from popping. If a blister has already popped, it is recommended to scrub the region and apply an antiseptic ointment. Afterwards, maintain the area coated with a bandage for a few days.

Shin Splints Can Make Training Practically Impossible

Some athletes and runners can experience a more serious condition involving shin pain. This extremely painful condition is caused by abuse of the lower leg by partaking in strenuous physical activities. The precise nature of the injury is still being researched, but they seem to be caused by injury to a tendon in the leg identified as the posterior peroneal tendon. Given that this condition also seems to occur in people who suffer from overpronation (the tendency of the foot to roll inward), special support devices in the shoes, known as sports insoles are especially effective.

Treatment for shin pain may include icing the area, resting it until it is healed, and participating in activities that are low impact such as using a stationary bicycle or swimming. To avoid re-injuring the area, wear orthotics for sports when you participate in impact activities.

Treating Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most painful heel and foot issues to suffer from. Heel pain happens when the plantar fascia is stretched excessively and becomes swollen, ripped, and bothered. The best way to treat these conditions right away is with proper foot arch support and padding, which can be provided by using sports insoles. Ice, massage, and physical therapy are also helpful.

When your feet and legs become painful, your body is trying to send a clear message: it needs help. Some of the time, just relaxing from strenuous workouts for a short period and wearing sports insoles is enough. However, when more severe conditions develop such as shin splints, a medical professional should be called in order to properly diagnose the problem and provide appropriate treatment.