Struggling with foot pain? No matter what the cause of your pain, your Crawfordsville and Indianapolis, IN, podiatrist, Dr. Yong Chae of Active Podiatry, offers treatments that will relieve your symptoms.
Home treatment for foot pain
Foot pain often gets better with home care. If your foot hurts, dull the pain with ice and over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Take it easy for a few days, and don't participate in strenuous exercise if your foot is still bothering you.
Is your pain caused by an ingrown toenail? Soak your foot in warm water for about 15 minutes to soften the skin around the nail. Dry your toe, then use a small piece of cotton or a piece of dental floss to gently lift the trapped part of the nail from the skin. Replace the cotton or floss every day until the nail grows out. (Don't try this if you have diabetes, as you may increase your risk of infection.)
When to call the podiatrist
It's a good idea to call your Indianapolis and Crawfordsville, IN, foot doctor about foot pain if:
- You have severe pain, can't put weight on your foot, or notice signs of infection (swelling, redness, pus, foul odor, red streaks on the skin)
- You have mild-to-moderate pain that hasn't improved after a week or two of home care
- Although you can put weight on your foot, walking and standing are uncomfortable
- You can't free a trapped nail by yourself
- Your bunion or hammertoe is getting worse
- You have heel pain that's worse first thing in the morning
- You're an athlete and keep experiencing foot pain
Podiatrists offer a variety of treatments for foot pain, depending on the cause. Common treatments include:
- Night splints
- Walking boots or casts
- Orthotics, prescription shoe inserts that align, support, and cushion the foot
- Physical therapy
- A minor, in-office procedure to treat ingrown toenails
- Corticosteroid injections to decrease pain and inflammation
- Shockwave therapy to promote healing if you have heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis or bone spurs
- Surgery, if other treatments aren't helpful
Don't let pain keep you off your feet. Ask your podiatrist in Crawfordsville and Indianapolis, IN, Dr. Yong Chae of Active Podiatry, about foot pain treatments. Call (317) 245-6233 to reach the Indianapolis office or (765) 362-7200 for the Crawfordsville office.