Managing Chronic Foot Pain During the Busy Holiday Season

The holiday season is filled with joy and activity, but with all the preparation, you may find yourself putting a lot of pressure on your feet. Whether you're dealing with heel pain, arch discomfort, or toe troubles, taking steps to care for your feet at home can make a big difference. 

Here’s what our experts at Ledesma Foot and Ankle recommend to reduce foot pain during the busy holiday season.

Different types of foot pain and their solutions

Foot pain can stem from a variety of causes, including inflammation, structural issues, and even nerve damage. Understanding the source of your discomfort is key to finding the right relief. Here’s a guide to common foot pain causes and effective ways to manage them.

Plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis, the inflammation of the tissue connecting your heel bone to your toes, often causes sharp pain in the foot. Strategies to manage pain include:

• Resting your foot to reduce strain
• Stretching your heel and foot muscles regularly to maintain flexibility
• Choosing shoes with arch support and cushioning for daily wear
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers for occasional flare-ups

Standing on your feet for prolonged periods can trigger a flare-up, so be sure to take breaks during long shopping trips.

Achilles tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis is an overuse injury affecting the tendon that connects your calf muscles to your heel bone. To prevent discomfort:

• Practice gentle stretching exercises for your calves
• Wear supportive footwear to reduce pressure on your heel
• Use ice or cold packs if discomfort arises after physical activity

Achilles tendonitis is often caused by stiff and overused calf muscles. In the long term, addressing the root cause of calf muscle overuse can help protect your tendons. A podiatrist can evaluate your posture and gait to determine if poor biomechanics, such as improper foot alignment, are contributing to the problem.

Arch pain

Tight calf muscles and conditions like plantar fasciitis or fallen arches can lead to arch pain. Here’s how to keep your arches supported:

• Stretch your calf and foot muscles to reduce strain
• Use custom inserts to maintain proper alignment
• Rest and apply ice as needed to soothe tired or achy arches

Our experts design custom orthotics tailored to your unique biomechanics to prevent and alleviate arch pain.

Toe pain

Gout and other conditions like bunions or hammertoes can cause significant toe pain. To avoid discomfort:

• Stay hydrated and maintain a diet low in uric acid to prevent gout attacks
• Opt for shoes with a wide toe box
• Use padding or protective sleeves for extra support

In the long term, bunions and hammertoes can often be managed with custom orthotics. For severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

Neuropathy in your foot

Tingling sensations accompanied by pain in the foot are classic signs of diabetic neuropathy. To minimize pain, ensure the following:

• Follow a low-sugar diet: keeps blood sugar levels stable and prevents further damage
• Maintain a healthy weight: reduces strain on your feet
• Choose shock-absorbing footwear: eases pressure

Diabetic feet require ongoing care, as the risk of infections and ulcers is high. Regular appointments with a podiatrist can help monitor and manage these risks effectively.

Learn more about managing your chronic pain

At-home measures to manage pain aren’t always enough. If you’re experiencing continuous discomfort and nothing seems to help, don’t delay — contact us to schedule an appointment at our Scottsdale, Arizona, office. Our experts will examine your feet and help you find relief for your pain.