Don’t Let Foot Pain Slow You Down

Summer is here, and with it, an increase in outdoor activities. From hiking and running to enjoying long walks on the beach, our feet are working overtime! Unfortunately, this surge in activity often brings an unwelcome visitor: foot pain. 

At SparkPhysio, I've seen a noticeable uptick in patients coming into the office with foot pain recently. If you’re among those suffering, I want you to know: you don't have to live with foot pain. Foot pain is not normal, and physical therapy can be a great place to start your journey to relief.

Why Foot Pain Happens 

Foot pain can stem from various causes such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, or simply overuse. Ignoring foot pain can lead to more serious issues, disrupting your active lifestyle and making daily activities a struggle. Addressing foot pain promptly is crucial to maintaining your health and mobility.

Simple Tips to Alleviate Foot Pain

Incorporating a few simple techniques into your daily routine can make a significant difference in alleviating foot pain. Here are some expert tips:

1. Use a Lacrosse Ball for Massage: A lacrosse ball can be an excellent tool for massaging the bottom of your feet. This helps to release tension in the plantar fascia and improve circulation. Simply roll the ball under your foot, applying gentle pressure for 2-3 minutes. Here’s a video with details.

2. Stretch Your Calves: Tight calf muscles can contribute to foot pain, particularly in conditions like plantar fasciitis. Regular calf stretching can help alleviate this tension. The calf is made up primarily of 2 muscles, the gastrocnemius and the soleus. So many people forget about (or don’t even know about) the soleus. They BOTH connect to your Achilles. So, DON’T FORGET THE SOLEUS! Check -> this link <- for my favorite way to stretch.

3. Strengthen the muscles in your feet: Strengthening the muscles in your feet can help support your arches and reduce pain. Walking on your heels and toes for short distances can be an effective exercise. Start with 10-15 seconds and gradually increase the duration as your strength improves. Not quite ready for this? Start by just walking barefoot more and more through your day (and yes, soft sole slippers count, but nothing with a hard sole). 

When do you need physical therapy?

If you’ve tried some of the above treatments, or maybe you’ve tried ice or maybe shoe inserts, and it just isn’t getting better, you may need more help!  Physical therapy offers a comprehensive approach to treating foot pain. Through a combination of manual therapy and targeted exercises, we can address the root cause of your pain and develop a personalized treatment plan to get rid of that foot pain for good. Physical therapy not only alleviates pain but also improves your overall foot function and prevents future issues.

NOW is the time!

Living with foot pain is uncomfortable AND unnecessary. Prioritizing your health is essential to maintaining the active, empowered lifestyle you love. Don’t let foot pain hold you back from enjoying your summer activities. If you’re ready to take the first step towards a pain-free life, set up a discovery call today. Let’s work together to get you back on your feet and doing what you love, pain-free. Start with a FREE Discovery Call today to see how physical therapy can help you today.