Foot health and foot pain prevention

Healthy feet are the foundation of the well-being of the entire body. The health of the feet affects our mobility, posture, and even our general well-being. Unfortunately, many people experience various foot pains and discomforts that can disrupt everyday life. Timely prevention, foot care, and wearing suitable shoes help prevent major problems.

Foot pain and other common foot problems

Big toe pain

When your big toe hurts, it can be caused by a deformity of the big toe bone, known as hallux valgus, swelling of the big toe, trauma, or inflammation of the joint. Hallux valgus is a condition in which the joint of the big toe changes direction abnormally and the bone begins to protrude slightly, creating a bump. This can cause severe pain, swelling, and inflammation, especially if the big toe is constantly pressed against by clothing or shoes. Hallux valgus is also often associated with biomechanical problems in the foot, such as improper foot support or weak leg muscles that cannot keep the arch of the foot in the correct position. In addition, improper footwear, such as heels that are too narrow or too high, can worsen the situation. 

Wearing barefoot shoes has helped many of our clients relieve the pain associated with hallux valgus. Those who have started wearing barefoot shoes after hallux valgus surgery have also been able to avoid further discomfort and additional complications. The right footwear, orthopedic insoles if necessary, or surgical intervention can help relieve symptoms and prevent the deformity from progressing. 

Often, big toe pain is also related to the big toe nail, which can press on nerves, or the toe hurts due to an ingrown toenail, for example.

Ingrown toenail

If your big toenail hurts, it could be a sign of an ingrown toenail. Ingrown toenails are often caused by poor nail-cutting techniques or tight shoes. This is more common in the big toe, but can happen to any toe. Ingrown toenails can cause pain, inflammation, and you may find that your big toe is swollen or pus is draining from it. To avoid foot pain and prevent ingrown toenails, it is important to choose shoes and socks that do not pinch your toes. Toenails should also be cut straight across, avoiding cutting corners.

Sometimes a toenail can also come loose, which can be caused by trauma or a fungal infection. It is important to keep your toenails in the correct shape and wear shoes that do not pinch your toes.

Foot pain and swelling

The foot is made up of many bones. If any of these bones are injured or overstressed, it can cause pain and swelling that affects the function of the entire foot. Foot pain is often caused by overuse, improper footwear, or injury. The bones of the foot can also be a problem, such as stress fractures or inflammation. If you have swelling in your foot, it may be an inflammatory condition, in which case you should see a doctor. If your foot is swollen but you need to wear something, be sure to choose roomier shoes and don't squeeze your feet into shoes that are too small.

Heel pain

If your heel hurts, it could be a bunion, plantar fasciitis, or overuse. Heel cushioning can help reduce daily stress and prevent inflammation.

Cockerel on a leg

Plantar fasciitis is a condition in which calcium deposits form on the inside of the heel, often causing severe heel pain. It affects one part of the foot, but pain can also be felt in other parts of the foot, such as the toes and soles. The main cause is inflammation of the plantar fascia, which occurs due to excessive strain or injury, such as wearing the wrong shoes or overloading.

low instep, low arches, excess body weight, age, and uncomfortable shoes contribute to the development of bunions. 

Treatment includes rest, ice packs, and stretching exercises. Heel cushioning insoles and orthopedic insoles can help relieve pressure. Your doctor may also prescribe anti-inflammatory medications. If home treatment doesn't help, you may want to consider physical therapy.

Lamp bases

A loose shoe may indicate that the wearer has clubfoot. Clubfoot, or clubfoot, means that the arch of the foot has sunken in and the natural cushioning of the foot is reduced. This can lead to foot pain, numbness, or itchy feet. Insoles for clubfoot or arch support insoles prescribed by an orthopedist can provide support and relieve symptoms.

Walking and running barefoot helps strengthen the muscles in your feet and activate the natural support structures of your feet. When your foot muscles are strong, they can better support the arch of your foot, reducing the discomfort of low instep. Exercising barefoot helps restore the natural range of motion in your feet and improve your balance. We have received feedback from many customers that after starting to wear barefoot shoes, they have gotten rid of their low instep.

Pain under the sole

If you have pain or discomfort under the sole of your foot, it could be plantar fasciitis, nerve pain, or even an overuse injury. Corrective footwear and special insoles can help correct the situation.

Sweating feet

Feet often sweat because of the wrong materials – synthetic socks and non-breathable footwear can cause excessive sweating and the resulting skin problems. Natural materials such as cotton, merino wool, bamboo should be preferred and socks should be changed regularly. If your feet sweat, you should definitely remove the insoles from your shoes after wearing them and let them air dry.

Taking care of your feet

Regular washing, drying, properly cutting nails and moisturizing the skin when necessary help keep your feet healthy. Proper foot hygiene and care help prevent ingrown nails, calluses and other problems. You should also make sure that your toes are not constantly squeezed together - toes often hurt because of shoes that are too tight. Barefoot shoes do not squeeze your toes together and allow your toes to be in the same position as when you are barefoot.

If you have leg pain, consult a doctor.

If foot pain persists for a long time, worsens, or interferes with movement, it is important to consult a family doctor, who may refer you to an orthopedist or physiotherapist if necessary. Some conditions, such as treatment of a big toe bone or a bunion on the foot, may require physiotherapy, a specialist, or in some cases even surgical intervention.

Choosing the right shoes

The wrong footwear can cause or worsen many foot problems. Footwear should follow the natural shape of the foot, provide enough toe room, and be flexible and lightweight. If you feel that your toe hurts, your soles are numb, or your bones in your feet are hurting, it is worth reviewing your footwear selection and, if necessary, consulting a specialist.

Check out our range of foot-friendly barefoot shoes

Barefoot shoes follow the natural shape of the foot, allow the toes to move freely and help strengthen the leg muscles in a natural way. Thanks to the flexible sole and large toe space, they are perfect for everyday wear and for preventing foot pain. Many of our customers have found relief from foot pain with barefoot shoes. Barefoot shoes are suitable for everyone, unless they are medically contraindicated.