7 Simple Tips to Relieve Foot Pain

  • There are many simple things you can do to relieve foot pain.
  • Start by trying some basic home remedies such as rest, ice, and elevating your feet.
  • You can also try stretching and massaging your feet or using over-the-counter pain relievers.
  • If your pain is severe or persistent, you may need to see a doctor for further treatment.

If you’re suffering from foot pain, you’re certainly not alone. In fact, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons , approximately 75% of Americans experience foot pain at some point.

Pain in the feet can be caused by several different factors, including overuse, injury, heel spurs, or underlying health conditions. But regardless of the cause, foot pain can make walking, standing, or even sleeping difficult. If you’re dealing with foot pain, relief is possible. Here are seven simple tips to help you get some relief.

1. Rest Your Feet

The first step to relieving foot pain is to give your feet a break. If possible, avoid walking or standing for long periods of time. Taking breaks often and elevating your feet when you can help reduce the amount of stress on your feet and allow them to heal.

2. Soak Your Feet in Warm Water

The best way to soothe tired, aching feet is to soak them in warm water. This simple remedy can help increase blood flow to the feet and reduce inflammation. Add a cup of Epsom salt to a warm foot bath and soak for 15-20 minutes. You can do this several times a week to help ease your foot pain.

3. Stretch Your Feet Daily

Tight muscles and tendons in the feet can contribute to pain, so it’s important to keep them flexible with regular stretching.

There are tons of different stretches you can do for foot pain, but some simple ones include toe curls (using a towel or resistance band), ankle circles (moving your ankles in a circular motion), and calf raises (raising up on your tip toes). Do each stretch several times per day for the best results.  

4. Massage Your Feet

Giving yourself a foot massage can also help relieve foot pain by promoting blood flow and relaxing the muscles. You can use lotion or oil to massage your feet, using both hands to cover the entire surface of each foot. Start at the base of the toes and work your way up towards the ankle. Spend extra time on any areas that are particularly sore or tender.

5. Wear Comfortable Shoes

One of the best ways to prevent foot pain is to wear comfortable shoes that support your foot’s arch. Avoid high heels or other shoes that put unnecessary strain on your feet. If you must wear dress shoes, choose a pair with low heels and plenty of padding. Always break in new shoes gradually to avoid blisters or other issues. 

6. Apply Ice Packs or Heat Therapy 

Applying ice to the painful area can help reduce swelling and inflammation. Just be sure to wrap the ice in a towel so you don’t damage your skin. Heat therapy can also be helpful for some types of pain. Again, be careful not to use too much heat as it could burn your skin. Try alternating between ice and heat until you find what works best for you.

7. Take over-the-counter medication (if necessary)

Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can both be effective in relieving foot pain caused by inflammation. However, if you notice that you’re relying heavily on these medications or that your pain is not improving after several days, in that case, it’s time to consult with a doctor—you may have a more serious condition that requires treatment beyond at-home remedies. 

The bottom line

Foot pain is a common problem, but there are several simple steps you can take at home to ease your symptoms. Resting, soaking, massaging, wearing comfortable shoes, applying ice or heat, pain reliever, and stretching before bedtime are all effective treatments you can try. Talk with your doctor if you have chronic foot pain or if these simple measures don’t seem to be helping.

Also read: 6 Types of Foot Pain You Should Never, Ever Ignore