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Heel pain is very unpleasant and affects our daily life. It influences our walk and our mind – with pain you can hardly concentrate on your work. By “heel pain” we mean the pain of the heel itself, but also pain in the arch area of the foot. The cause of this pain is often wearing improper footwear – especially flat shoes. If you often suffer from foot pain, it’s worth investing in orthopedic shoes.
Heel pain: causes
Besides improper footwear, foot and especially heel pain can also be caused by other factors. We feel these pains most in the morning. Causes behind heel pain include injuries, sprains, fractures, pinched nerves and wear of the heel area, an accidental impact on a hard surface (for example when jumping down), but also excess weight. We present 5 ways you can get rid of this pain.
Ice
Ice can help with various kinds of pain. Apply it to the heel to numb the pain. Heel pains are caused by inflammation, which produces heat. So it’s logical that we want to cool it. Applying ice directly to the skin can be very uncomfortable. Therefore it’s better to use ice as a compress. Put crushed ice wrapped in a bag into a cloth (dish towel, large handkerchief, baby cloth nappy). Then apply it to the painful spot and leave it on for up to 15 minutes. Repeat several times a day or as needed.
Massage
Massage is another simple, natural treatment for heel pain. It relaxes the muscles, relieves pressure and stiffness, and improves blood circulation. Apply massage oil to the sore area and press with your thumbs on the painful spot for several minutes. Massage for about 10 minutes. Repeat several times a day. Ideally, have the massage done by a professional.
Stretching exercises
In many cases stretching exercises help relieve pain and support a quick recovery. Stand barefoot a few feet from a wall. Press both hands, palms, against the wall. Step forward with one foot and stretch the Achilles tendon of the other foot. Hold this position for about 30 seconds. Then switch feet. Repeat 10 times on each side.
Bath in Epsom salt
Epsom salt is a very well-known relaxing salt. It consists of magnesium sulfate crystals, which are known to help reduce pain, swelling and inflammation. The heat of the water also promotes relaxation. In a basin mix 3 tablespoons of Epsom salt with warm water and soak your feet in this mixture for 15 to 20 minutes. Then massage a moisturizing cream into your feet and massage for 5 minutes. Repeat 2 to 3 times a week until the pain completely disappears.
Turmeric
Turmeric contains a very valuable substance: curcumin. It is a very powerful remedy used against pain and inflammation. Pour 1 cup of milk and 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder into a pot. Simmer on low heat for 5 minutes. Then add a little honey. Drink this mixture two to three times a day.
