If you suffer from chronic foot pain, you're not alone – as much as 80% of the U.S. population shares your plight. The good news is that most foot pain is related to lifestyle. In other words, you can reduce your misery by making some simple changes. You're going to have to give up some things (hint: click, clack, click) but trust me – it'll be worth it. Let's take a look at 4 common, easily remedied causes of foot pain.
1. High Heel Shoes
This should come as no surprise. Any heel that is more than 2 inches in height places over half of your body weight on the balls of your feet. This greatly constricts your foot's shape and can lead to stress fractures and, of course, an immense amount of pain.
The pointed toes of many high heels makes things even worse, placing the baby toe in a completely unnatural position and constricting blood flow. The lower and thicker the heel of your shoe, the better it will be for your feet. Seriously, ditch the high heels.
Also Read: THIS Is What Your Shoes Are Doing To Your Knees And Back!
2. Long Periods of Standing
Millions of people suffer from chronic foot pain as a result of standing for long periods of time. No surprise there – feet bear most of your body weight.
Proper-fitting shoes can provide your feet the support they need, especially if you find yourself frequently lifting objects, or gardening, which can place your feet in awkward positions.
3. Gout
Gout, a form of arthritis, is caused by a buildup of uric acid in joints. The illness – one of the most frequently recordedthroughout history – is characterized by inflammation and difficulty moving toes. You can combat uric acid levels in your body by eating more alkaline foods. Take a look at this post for more information on effective alkaline dieting.
Also Read: He Drank THIS Natural Juice And His Gout Vanished In 2 Days!
4. Flat Feet
If the soles of your feet can touch the floor when you stand, you've got flat feet. It's an inherited condition but can also be caused by wearing high heels for extended periods of time or subjecting the feet to other forms of unnatural wear and tear. People with flat feet commonly report pain in the heel and arch area.
Heel cord stretching exercises can provide significant relief. One simple exercise goes like this. Sit and place your legs straight in front of you. Wrap a towel around the ball of one foot and hold the loose ends. Pull the towel towards you until you feel a stretch.
Looking for fast – as in right now – foot pain relief? Check out this post to learn about 6 simple stretches that will have you saying "Ahh" in no time!
Also be sure to take a look at this video from David highlighting the benefits of barefoot walking!
Sources:Hughston.com
Mayo Clinic
WebMD
Lifehacker
HealthLine.com
SCPOD.org