Solutions for Common Foot Problems for Women

Your feet do a lot of work. Whether walking, standing or exercising, your feet put in long hours. Here’s a look at some of the most common foot problems for women and ways to reduce foot pain. 

Possible pain points

1. Adult-onset flat feet 

• When the posttrial tibial tendon, which helps hold up your arch, begins to break down, it can cause a painful flattening of the arch. Symptoms might include pain and swelling, often on the outside of the ankle. If not treated, the pain can intensify. 

2. Heel pain 

• Heel pain tends to be caused by overuse, so the best treatment is prevention. Experts suggest replacing athletic shoes after they have about 300 miles on them, even if they still look new. 

3. Nerve problems 

• Sometimes compressed nerves in other parts of the spine or legs can also cause foot symptoms. Be sure to tell your physician about any other problems you’re having when seeking help for foot problems. 

4. Bunions 

• Bunions begin with a leaning of the big toe, gradually changing the angle of the bones over the years and slowly producing the characteristic bump. 

5. Plantar Fasciitis 

• Heel pain is often caused by plantar fasciitis. Faulty foot structure is the most common cause of plantar fasciitis. In women, it may result from wearing nonsuppurative shoes, such as flip-flops and ballet flats. 

How to Avoid Foot Pain

1. Try a foot bath 

• Warm water and Epsom salts may be just the ticket to alleviate foot pain and sore muscles. It can even reduce swelling in your feet. 

2. Stretch 

• Try stretching exercises to help your sore feet. Stretching can prevent cramping and promote flexibility. 

3. Exercise 

• Keeping your feet flexible and strong is key to avoiding foot pain. Walking regularly for exercise is the best way to keep your feet limber and healthy. 

4. Switch your shoes 

• Your shoes could be the culprit of your foot pain. Wearing shoes beyond their life span, the wrong style or an incorrect shoe size can impact the health of your feet. 

5. Ice your feet 

• Icing your feet can reduce inflammation that causes soreness. Apply ice to sore feet by filling a plastic bag with ice or rolling your feet on a frozen water bottle. Try to ice the affected area for 5 to 15 minutes a few times a day to help reduce inflammation. 

6. Contact your doctor 

• Contact your doctor if you suspect a more severe foot condition or if you have severe foot pain. If you have diabetes and experience foot pain, call your doctor immediately.