If you frequently suffer from toe and foot problems, then you might feel that it's a good idea to learn about the best treatment options to help manage your foot problems. Most minor injuries will heal by themselves, and home treatment may be all that's required to promote healing and relieve your symptoms. However, if you suspect that you might have a more severe injury, you can use first aid measures while arranging for an evaluation from your doctor.
For a Suspected Broken Bone:
The best treatment options to help manage your foot problems will depend on what kind of problems you're suffering from. If you're worried about a potential broken bone, for instance, there are some golden rules to follow. For instance, if the bone is sticking out from the skin, you shouldn't attempt to push it back in. It's a better idea to leave the bone alone and cover the area completely with a bandage. Additionally, make sure that you control the bleeding from your injury, and remove all rings or anklets immediately to make sure that they don't restrict the limb during swelling.
For a Suspected Sprain:
If you believe that your foot problems might be linked to a suspected sprained or sore toe, you could consider starting to use the RICE method for swelling and pain. This involves using compression, ice, and rest, to ensure that your foot is as comfortable as possible during treatment. Remember, if you don't have peripheral arterial disease or diabetes, your sprained or sore toe can be taped to the toe next to it for support. You can protect the skin in this instance by placing some soft padding, such as foam, or felt, next to your toes, before taping them together. Take note that your toe might need to be taped for a while to heal.
Strengthening Your Feet and Toes:
If you're looking for the best treatment options to help manage your foot problems, one of the best things you can potentially do is reduce the chances of encountering a problem in the first place. For instance, as soon as you can start to bear weight on your foot without any increased swelling or pain, you can begin to take on more muscle-strengthening exercises. You should hold these exercises for around three to five seconds, and do repetitions every day for a couple of weeks.
The more you focus on strengthening the muscles in and around your feet, the more chances you have of limiting your risk of injury in the future, as the complicated network of ligaments and bones in your feet will be properly supported.
Looking After Your Feet:
Finally, one of the most important things you can do to care for your feet is make sure that you treat them with the respect and attention that they deserve on a daily basis. For instance, you might wear supportive footwear that can help to reduce your chances of injuring your ankle or foot further. Or, you might consider wearing roomier footwear, particularly if the front portion of your foot is painful. You could also consider using an orthotic device in your shoe, such as a support or arch to help limit the amount of pain that you experience. Additionally, you should look for ways to treat blisters when you get them to limit your risk of an infection.