what is the best treatment for sore feet and ankles

What to do if your ankle hurts?

Concentrated injections of anti-inflammatory medication may be an effective way to manage any arthritic pain in the ankle. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications may help to reduce swelling, tenderness, and pain. Voltaren™ topical gel is known to alleviate pain in and around the foot caused by arthritis or tendonitis.

What is the best treatment for ankle pain?

 · Taking a bath or soaking your feet in a tub of water with Epsom salts may help decrease inflammation and swelling in the ankles by increasing magnesium levels. 2 Diet and Supplements Reducing sodium (salt) intake can help balance your system and decrease swelling.

How to relieve ankle pain?

Why does my ankle Ache at night?

What does it mean if your feet and ankles are aching?

The most common causes include injury, arthritis and normal wear and tear. Depending on the cause, you may feel pain or stiffness anywhere around the ankle. Your ankle may also swell, and you may not be able to put any weight on it. Usually, ankle pain gets better with rest, ice and over-the-counter pain medications.

What is the fastest way to cure foot pain?

To treat it:Rest, ice, and elevate your foot.Wear stiff-soled shoes or foot pads to relieve pressure.Take pain relievers.If you're still in pain, talk to your doctor.

What is good for sore painful feet?

Resting the foot and applying ice can reduce inflammation. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium, can help with pain management. Stretching the foot thoroughly before and after physical activity, as well as throughout the day, may help to reduce heel pain.

Is it better to soak sore feet in hot or cold water?

When you feel tired and have pain on your feet and legs due to walking and standing for hours all day long, you should soak your feet and legs in “cold water” because it can helps constrict your blood vessels and reduce the inflammatory chemical mediators so that the swelling and inflammation in the muscles are reduced ...

What vitamin is good for foot pain?

Vitamin D supplementation and the maintenance of sufficient vitamin D levels for 2 years successfully reduced disabling foot pain in patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis, according to published results.

How does Epsom salt help sore feet?

Reducing inflammation may ease pain and stiffness associated with conditions, such as arthritis and gout. The crystallized compound structure of Epsom salt provides exfoliation of the dead skin on the feet. The foot soak may help decrease roughness and leave the feet softer.

Does vinegar help sore feet?

Soak your feet in vinegar - It may sound too easy to make, but a vinegar soak is one of the easiest ways to help relieve sore feet. All you have to do is fill a bowl with warm water, a drop of any dishwashing liquid and a cup of white vinegar. Soak your feet in this mixture for 30 minutes then wash them with water.

How do I stop my feet from hurting after walking all day?

4 Ways to Find Relief from Foot PainWear Proper Shoes. This may seem like common sense, but it's essential to wear shoes that fit well. ... Stretch it Out. Overstressed muscles will tend to contract or spasm. ... Consider Your Posture. ... Soak in Epsom Salt.

How to treat diabetic neuropathy in feet?

If you have diabetic neuropathy in your feet, check the water with your hands first to avoid exposing your feet to extreme temperatures. Magnesium supplements.

What to do if you have a blister on your leg?

If you develop leg ulcerations or blisters, call your physician. Blisters and sores can set you up for infection, Dr. Botek says. Also, monitor your feet. Shoes that are too tight due to swelling can often cut into your skin and create wounds.

How to treat swelling on both sides of body?

You can often treat the symptoms of swelling that occur on both sides of your body yourself, Dr. Botek says. Here are some ideas that can help: Compression socks. Available at your local drug store, shoe store or online, compression socks provide pain relief and prevent fluid collection in your legs, ankles and feet.

What is swelling in the legs?

Swelling (or what doctors refer to as edema) happens when your body retains fluid in your lower legs, ankles and feet, she says. It most often occurs on both sides of the body, and it’s not an emergency situation. “When it comes to swelling, it’s about management and getting through the day,” Dr. Botek says.

Why do compression socks help?

Compression socks offer a gentle squeeze to your legs that promotes better blood circulation. This helps prevent fluid from collecting in your ankles and feet, which works to minimize swelling and pain.

What are the symptoms of a swollen leg?

Call your physician if you develop: 1 Leg ulcerations. 2 Increased pain. 3 Blisters. 4 Redness. 5 Drainage.

Does Epsom salt help with inflammation?

Is there a ton of science behind the claims of how Epsom salt reduces inflammation and draws out toxins? Not really… but people swear by it. Many doctors promote it, too, given its ease of use, low cost and minimal risk.

How to treat a stiff ankle?

Do not exercise, instead try gently moving it from time to time to stop the area getting stiff.

What is the best way to get your foot and ankle moving?

A physiotherapist. Physiotherapists are trained to use movement, exercise, manual therapy, and advice to help get your foot and ankle moving again. They will show you exercises to practice at home to support your recovery. In some areas you can self-refer to an NHS physiotherapist.

Why do people walk on the outer edge of their feet?

People with high arches are more likely to walk on the outer edge of their feet because their arches push their feet and ankles outwards. It can put excessive strain on the ankle, heel, and ball of the foot, increasing the risk of problems such as plantar fasciitis.

What is an orthotist?

Orthotists are trained to assess and treat problems in the foot and ankle by using specially made braces, splints, callipers, insoles, and footwear. Usually you need to be referred to an orthotist.

What is a podiatrist called?

Podiatrists are trained foot specialists, they used to be called chiropodists. They can offer you:

How many bones are there in the foot?

It’s one of the most complex, hard-working regions of your body. It has 26 bones and 33 small joints, all held together by a network of soft tissue made up of muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and blood vessels. Most cases of foot or ankle pain are short ...

What are the symptoms of Achilles tendon pain?

The main symptoms are: pain in the Achilles tendon which worsens after activity. difficulty moving the foot up and down. a grating sensation. swelling, redness or heat around the tendon.

How to treat sore ankles?

Another option for treating a sore ankle is using analgesics. This treatment works well for reducing pain but it won’t treat swelling. Look for over the counter creams such as being Bengay, Icy Hot, or Aspercreme to help reduce the soreness of the injury.

What to do if your ankle is sore?

Here are some key remedies that will help you with your sore ankle: 1. PRP Therapy. There are some injuries that the ankle remedies above won’t treat.

Why do you need to cold your ankle?

Make sure you don’t do this technique in the beginning stages of the injury because cold methods are required to treat ankle inflammation and swelling

Why does my ankle hurt?

A sprained ankle is one of the most common causes of a sore ankle. It’s caused by damage to the ligaments in the ankle which causes them to partially or fully tear as a result of sudden stretching.

How to get rid of swelling in ankle?

4. Epsom Salt. After a few days, it’s permissible to soak your ankle in warm water sprinkled with Epsom salt.

What to use for swelling in a swollen arm?

Check your cabinets for items such as garlic, turmeric, olive oil, or castor oil. Then, warm up these ingredients, apply them to the site of the injury, and wrap a bandage around it for a few hours.

How to reduce swelling after a sprain?

Ice – Ice helps to minimize swelling, so ice the area several times a day to help speed up the recovery time and reduce swelling. Compression – Wrap and a static or elastic compression bandage around your injury to decrease swelling.

How to heal a sore foot?

Apply oil or lotion to the soles of your feet and massage while applying gentle thumb pressure to any sore areas. Focus on the plantar fascia, the prominent cord-like structure that runs the length of the arch from the ball of the foot to the heel.

How to get rid of swollen feet?

You can find Epsom salts in the first aid or foot care section of drug stores and big box retailers. Sprinkle 1 to 2 tablespoons into a gallon of warm water. If your feet are swollen, hot, or tired, use cool water instead of warm. Afterward, elevate your feet for a half hour or more.

How to find plantar fascia?

To find the plantar fascia, flex your toes upward. You should be able to feel it if you follow the underside of your big toe down through the arch. Keeping your plantar fascia relaxed is a good idea. It acts as a shock absorber when your feet hit the ground. In fact, if your heels are sore, then tight or injured plantar fascia may be the cause.

How to relax sore muscles?

One of the best remedies for relaxing sore muscles is a foot bath. 3  Soak your feet in a basin of warm water or a store-bought foot spa for five to 10 minutes. Try adding Epsom salts to the water for an added soothing effect. Epsom salts are readily available where first aid products are sold.

What causes a foot to bleed and crack?

The hard, dry skin of calluses and corns can put pressure on the bottom of your foot. Your feet may crack, bleed, or become infected. 7

Why do my feet ache?

Common Causes of Aching Feet. Your sore feet likely stem from a few known causes and risk factors: Abnormal foot anatomy: Common problems include flat feet, an excessively high arch, and arthritis or joint restriction. Obesity: Carrying excess weight results in increased strain on ligaments, muscles, and joints.

What causes pain in the foot?

See your primary care physician to evaluate and treat these conditions: Diabetes or any other condition that causes peripheral neuropathy, which is nerve damage to the limbs 9 . Autoimmune diseases , such as rheumatoid arthritis 10 .

Treatment

There are some home remedies that may help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with swollen feet and ankles.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

If you have experienced swelling in your feet and ankles for more than one month, you should see a healthcare provider to have an examination and evaluation to diagnose any underlying causes.

Summary

Swelling in the ankles can result from a variety of different causes and can be managed at home through the use of compression stockings, elevation, monitoring sodium and water intake, diuretic supplements, lymphatic drainage massage, Epsom salts, and changing your medication.

A Word From Verywell

Other than avoiding injury, swelling in the ankles is best prevented by staying active and exercising regularly to maintain good circulation. If you sit or stand for long periods of time, it is helpful to take periodic breaks to walk, which allows the leg muscles to contract and improve blood flow.

What is the best treatment for sore feet?

One of the best home remedies for sore feet is a nice warm soak in Epsom salt. Besides the soothing of warm water, the magnesium sulfate, which is the chemical makeup of Epsom salt, will penetrate through the skin and deliver relief to both swelling and pain.

How to heal sore feet?

Vinegar . Another of the simplest home remedies for sore feet, which is probably on your pantry shelf is vinegar. Vine gar is able to help reduce inflammation and pain as well. Research suggests that vinegar works three times as fast as ice at reducing swelling.

How to treat sore feet with hot water?

Alternating between cold and hot water will both promote circulation as well as reduce inflammation. Fill one foot tub with bare ly bearable hot water and another with cold water and place them side by side in front of a chair.

Why do my feet hurt so bad?

There are certain injuries that can impact your feet in the long run. These injuries include anything from bone injuries to ligaments to tendon tears. Not receiving proper care after your foot injury can lead to painful sore feet. The pain can be anything from a burning sensation to a nerve injury that makes your feet tingle.

How to make socks look better?

Sprinkle cayenne pepper powder into your socks before putting them on.

How long does it take for oil to absorb into feet?

Apply the oil to your sore feet and allow it to absorb for 30 minutes or so.

Why do my feet feel sore?

The onset of pregnancy brings with it not only a drastic hormonal change in your body but also a sudden increase in weight. This added weight can add an undue amount of pressure on to your feet. Carrying around this weight with you throughout your normal day to day activities is something that will inevitably lead to sore feet.

What is an ankle ulcer?

What are ankle ulcers? An ulcer is an open sore or lesion on the body that is slow to heal or keeps returning. Ulcers result from skin tissue breakdown and may be painful. There are three different types of ulcers: Venous stasis ulcers are the most common type of lower body ulcer, especially at the ankles.

How does it feel to have an ulcer on your ankle?

Your skin may feel warm or hot to the touch and the area surrounding the ulcer may be swollen and discolored. Your legs may ache, and, depending on how swollen your ankle is, your skin may feel tight and look shiny.

How to prevent venous ulcers?

One way to prevent the development of venous stasis ulcers is to elevate your legs above your heart for at least 30 minutes, several times per day. Limit prolonged standing or sitting. This helps reduce the pressure and swelling that can cause venous stasis ulcers. It will also aid in blood circulation.

What is the best treatment for venous stasis?

Compression therapy is the usual treatment for venous stasis ankle ulcers. It helps with swelling and helps speed the healing process. Compression also aids in the prevention of repeated ulcers.

What to take for swelling after compression?

Your doctor may prescribe medications such as pentoxifylline and aspirin if compression treatment isn’t effective. You may need to take diuretics for a short time if you have significant swelling. It’s important that you take all prescribed medication as directed.

What dressings are used for ulcers?

There are several types of dressings you might use for an ulcer, including antimicrobial, collagen, composite, and skin substitute dressings. Your doctor can explain the advantages of each type and advise you on which is best for you. They may even refer you to a clinic that specializes in treatment of wounds.

How to get rid of pressure on legs?

Try to elevate your legs in bed at night if possible. Also, try to limit salt in your diet and check your blood pressure regularly for any changes. Sometimes losing weight can relieve some of the pressure on your legs. Check with your doctor to see if they believe weight loss is appropriate for you.

How to get rid of swollen feet?

Massage your feet. Massage can be great for swollen feet and can also promote relaxation. Massage (or have someone massage them for you!) your feet toward your heart with firm strokes and some pressure. This can help move the fluid out of the area and reduce swelling. 10.

How to reduce swelling in feet while pregnant?

If you’re looking to reduce foot swelling while pregnant, try elevating your feet several times a day as well. Aim for about 20 minutes at a time, even on an ottoman or a chair. Try to avoid standing for long periods of time and stay off your feet when you can. 5. Get moving!

Why do my feet swell?

Painless swelling of the feet or ankles is common and can happen for a variety of reasons. Causes of swollen feet can include: staying on your feet too long. ill-fitting shoes. pregnancy.

How to reduce swelling in the body?

Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water per day. Though it might seem counterintuitive, getting enough fluids actually helps reduce swelling. When your body isn’t hydrated enough, it holds onto the fluid it does have. This contributes to swelling.

Does weight loss cause swelling in feet?

This can result in being more sedentary — which can also cause fluid buildup in the feet. Losing weight can help ease the strain on your feet and possibly reduce foot swelling as well.

Does Epsom salt help with muscle pain?

Epsom salt ( magnesium sulfate) may not only help with muscle pain. It may also reduce swelling and inflammation. The theory is that Epsom salt draws out toxins and increases relaxation.