Foot pain can occur anywhere in your foot -- including your toes, heel, sole, ankles or instep. Foot pain can be make your favorite activities, including walking and exercising, unbearable. Individuals place a tremendous amount of stress on their feet each and every time they exercise without even realizing it. As a result, many foot ailments can strike. If you are experiencing foot pain while walking or exercising, it is best to visit a podiatric doctor for diagnosis and proper foot care.
Blisters
Blisters can occur while exercising or walking and after often the result of participating in physical activity with ill-fitting footwear. Blisters are created by skin friction and moisture. Small blisters can normally be covered with a bandage and left to pop on their own. However, larger blisters can be uncomfortable and may require popping. Large blisters can be pierced with a sterile needle to drain the fluid before applying an antiseptic cream and bandage. If you have a blister, you should keep your feet dry and wear thick socks to act as a cushion. If your blister appears to be affected, you should make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Corns and Calluses
Corns and calluses are also the result of repeat friction on your foot as well as shoes that do not fit properly. Corns and calluses are layers of dead skin cells that gather on your foot. Corns are normally found on the toes. Calluses are normally found on the soles of your feet. If you have a corn or callus, you should visit a podiatrist for proper treatment which may involve removable of the corn or callus or a home treatment to soften the effected area.
Bunions
Bunions occur when your big toe begins to point inward towards your second toe. You will notice a bump on the outside edge of your large toe if you have a bunion. Shoes that do not fit properly are known to cause bunions. Bunions are also more likely to occur in females than males. Taking good care of your feet and wearing appropriate shoes for athletics can help to prevent the development of a bunion. If you already have a bunion, a splint or foam pad can be used to protect your foot. If your bunion results in severe pain or deformity, the bunion can be surgical removed and your toes can be realigned.
Flat Feet
Flat feet can occur at childhood or develop in adulthood. Flat feet are essentially the absence of arches in your feet. Flat feet can be stiff, inflexible and painful as you walk or exercise. Your doctor may recommend insoles for your shoes which can increase your ability to participate in physical activity pain free. Resting, casting, anti-inflammatory medications and ankle braces can help to ease the pain of flat feet. Surgery may be used as a last resort.
Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are a common overuse injury in individuals who are on the feet a lot -- including those who walk, run and engage in a lot of exercise. Stress fractures are tiny cracks that occur in the weight bearing bones of your feet -- particularly the metatarsals. If you have a stress fracture, you are likely to experience pain while walking or exercising. Your pain may subside with rest. A stress fracture can be treated with rest, a walking boat or activity modification.
