Article Contributed on: 9/14/2009 1:08:12 PM
Unhappy feet?
If the answer is yes, maybe it's because you started working out, spent a lifetime on your feet with the wrong kind of shoes, or you just plain do a lot of standing. Whatever the reason, you would really like some relief, and you'd like it NOW!
If you've just begun walking again, or have started a new exercise program you'll want to tackle these goals but pain in the feet or under one's arches can weaken the resolve of the most strong and willful activity enthusiast. And so you may ask, what's the point of exercising if it results in pain, the kind that makes the body feel worn down and just plain uncomfortable?
But healthy hopefuls need not lose hope. Resolving foot pain can be as easy as 1, 2, 3! Many times it's just a matter of finding the right activity-specific shoe, providing exercises that tone and strengthen the muscles and tendons in the feet. Or, a combination of shoes and inserts to raise those fallen arches properly. But for now, let's just share a few tips in detail so you can exhaust some possible solutions before having to make a trip to the doctor's office.
First, try massaging the foot. Relaxing tight muscles in the feet after a nice walk or standing on one's feet all day go a long way in providing increased flexibility when walking or standing. Massaging tools can be found in most health food stores. Various foot exercises can help build strength into weak feet and ankles. We highly recommend stretching and exercise together to build strength and flexibility before starting or increasing any exercise program.
Second, use the right shoe. Many people don't realize that shoes are designed to support the foot according to specific activities. For example, a basketball shoe that is designed to provide ankle support won't work well for running which requires a shoe that has more heel cushion to absorb shock. So, if you're one of those people heading out to a step class wearing the latest state-of-the-art running shoe, it might be the reason you're having problems. Talking to a sport shoe expert at the local running shoe store can help you decide which type of shoe works best for your activity. And, of course you get what you pay for, so plan to spend according to the level of workout you perform or to the extent of support you require - it's cheaper than getting injured!
Third, get help. If discomfort continues, it probably means that you're in need of some help to get comfortable again. Underlying conditions such as fallen arches or poor foot mechanics can cause increasing amounts of discomfort and require medical attention to get them resolved. Fallen arches can create foot problems, and can even affect the ankles, knees, hips and even the spine. The most common treatment is orthotic therapy. Orthotics are shoe inserts that come in a variety of styles and purposes. Custom orthotics are precise shoe inserts created to help restore proper left and right foot form and function when you stand, walk or run. Proper function reduces joint irritation, muscle strain and poor mechanics resulting in increased comfort - a "spring" in your step.
A little caution here. Making sure you get the right information, or the right orthotic to resolve your problem can get tricky. Dr. Ramzi Dalloul, a chiropractor and avid runner, sees many people in his office complaining of achy feet. "It's great seeing people committed to getting and staying healthy! When they come to my office complaining of heel or foot pain it's important to determine the underlying source of their problem. Is it just a temporary problem or are they a candidate for orthotic therapy, and what type of orthotic? Oftentimes, it's just a matter of giving them some helpful advice about their feet and their needs."
Because so many people are struggling with foot pain while staying healthy, Dr. Dalloul offers free community foot clinics and screenings throughout the year to the public through local running events, recreation centers and shoe stores. These valuable clinics provide helpful information and resources that give the participant a 'step up' toward resolving their own foot issues. The next available foot clinic will be held at The City of Westminster Mac facility, 3295 W 72nd Ave, on Tuesday, October 6th at 6pm and Thursday, October 8th at 10am. It will be a combination of class and individual participant screening for one hour. To attend, RSVP to Westminster Pain Relief Clinic at 303-412-0037.