What You Need To Know About The Anatomy Of The Foot

The foot is a complex structure comprising 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These work together to maintain stability and balance in the body, absorb shock, and adapt to various surfaces and activities.

The foot is divided into three main sections: the forefoot, midfoot, and hindfoot.

The forefoot includes the five toes (phalanges) and the five longer bones (metatarsals). The midfoot houses the arch of the foot, formed by the cuboid, navicular, and three cuneiform bones. The hind foot consists of the talus, which connects the foot to the ankle, and the calcaneus (heel bone). These all work together to support body weight, provide balance, and enable movement.

Due to the intricate structure of the foot, problems can arise and compromise overall health and well-being. Diseases such as arthritis and diabetes can further impair foot health. Additionally, toxins from the environment and overly processed diets result in oxidative stress and chronic low-grade inflammation that causes ongoing foot pain.

Four Common Causes Of Foot Pain

PLANTAR FASCIITIS

The most common type of foot pain occurs when the plantar fascia, a webby ligament connecting the bottom of the foot to the heel, becomes inflamed. This condition can affect anyone, but those between the ages of 40 and 65 are most susceptible, and obesity and pregnancy increase the risk.

Achilles Tendonitis

The Achilles tendon connects the heel bone to the calf muscle and is prone to injury and inflammation when overused. Runners and high-heel wearers are at an increased risk, and certain antibiotics and steroid use can trigger this condition.

Morton’s Neuroma

A condition of the forefoot caused by the thickening of the tissue surrounding the plantar digital nerve between the third and fourth toes (the third web space). It causes sharp, burning pain and numbness near the front of the foot, often resulting from high heels, shoes that are too tight, and foot deformities.

Bunions and Hammertoes

Two conditions caused by foot injuries and wearing tight-fitting shoes. Bunions form when the big toe deviates toward the second toe and causes a painful bump at the base of the big toe. Hammertoes result when one of the toe muscles weakens and stresses the tendons and joints, causing the toe to bend abnormally.

THE BEST NATURAL REMEDIES TO RELIEVE FOOT PAIN

IT’S EASY TO GET STUCK IN OLD WAYS OF LIVING. IT’S TIME TO MAKE ROOM FOR THE NEW WAYS OF HEALING.

TART CHERRY EXTRACT

Reducing inflammation is a crucial first step to managing any type of foot pain. Tart Cherry Extract is a natural and effective alternative to NSAIDs and a potent antioxidant that fights inflammation on a cellular level and equips the body to keep foot pain and swelling at bay.

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FOOT PAIN RELIEF CREAM

When used daily, our soothing Foot Pain Relief Cream calms various foot pain quickly. A targeted blend of essential oils, PEA, lidocaine, and menthol helps ease pain, stiffness, and inflammation topically.

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THE HEALING SOLE

A recovery shoe with a firm, supportive sole, metatarsal bar, and rocker heel promotes natural healing from plantar fasciitis and other foot pain. The original Healing Sole with a raised toe design works best for plantar fasciitis. Our Palmer Flip Flop (without the raised toe ramp) is ideal for those suffering from hammertoes, bunions, heel pain, and forefoot pain.

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THE BEST NATURAL REMEDIES TO RELIEVE FOOT PAIN

AT WELL THEORY, OUR GOAL IS TO HELP YOU CURATE A LIFE LIVED WELL – IN A LASTING, HOLISTIC WAY.

1. Choose Proper Footwear

Optimal arch support, cushioning, and stability help relieve pain from plantar fasciitis and Morton’s neuroma. To allow the feet to breathe, avoid tight footwear and go barefoot for a few hours daily. Custom orthotics, padded inserts, and toe spacers can also provide relief.

2. Foot Soaks

Soak feet in warm water with Epsom salts for 30 min. to reduce swelling and discomfort. Regularly massage feet and affected toes to boost circulation and relieve tension. Use our Foot Pain Relief Cream afterward to alleviate pain and stiffness.

3. Rest

Minimize activities that worsen pain and give the feet time to heal. Elevate feet (above heart level using pillows), apply ice, and use Tart Cherry Extract to ease pain and swelling. Get plenty of quality sleep at night, ideally 7-9 hours, to allow your body to detox and flush out inflammatory free radicals.

4. Stretching

Perform stretches such as towel stretches, rolling stretches, toe raises, and curls to strengthen foot muscles and improve flexibility. Learn more about these targeted stretches here. A qualified physical therapist can offer a personalized strengthening and stretching program.