It is no secret that foot and ankle pain is a common problem. Foot and ankle injuries are among the leading causes of disability among people of all ages. You are more likely to have an injury on your feet or ankles at least once in your lifetime. Fortunately, there are many options for relieving foot and ankle pain without surgery. These treatments have proven more effective in relieving foot and ankle pain without the risk of infection or scarring. If other conservative treatments are ineffective in relieving your pain, consider a minimally invasive treatment from an eazy foot & ankle clinic. Here are six minimally invasive options to help you live a pain-free life.
1. Injections
Injections are one of the most common treatments for foot and ankle pain. Your podiatrist can administer these injections to treat different conditions at different parts of your foot. They use a needle to inject a local anesthetic around the painful bony areas like your heels or arches.
Injections are not painful, but you may experience minimal pressure around the injection area. Your doctor may also use an ultrasound to target specific areas of your body that need attention, like muscles. This method is more effective than traditional injections because there is no risk of bleeding from routine procedures.
2. Moxibustion
Moxibustion is a therapy involving a stick with burning herbs or spices attached to it. The heat from these herbs or spices is absorbed through your skin and affects specific points on your foot or ankle. You can relieve your foot and ankle pain by placing the herb-covered stick directly against the affected area for about 10 seconds. You can also perform moxibustion using electronic devices such as infrared heaters. However, they may work better than the original versions.
3. Transcutaneous Nerve Stimulation (TENS) device
TENS devices are electrical stimulators that can help block pain signals. They are available in both home-use and clinic settings. They can help relieve chronic foot and ankle pain. These devices are typically used with other treatments like physical therapy or medication management programs. Therefore, you must consult your doctor about which option is best for you before deciding on a TENS device purchase.
4. Thermal Therapy
Thermal therapy is an effective treatment that can relieve pain by applying heat on the affected areas of various parts of your body, including your hands and feet. Thermal therapy devices are available in a variety of sizes and shapes. Besides relieving pain, these devices also help improve circulation on your feet. Thermal therapy can also minimize swelling and reduce inflammation around your joints.
5. Electrical Stimulation
Electrical stimulation (ES) is a non-invasive treatment that can treat various conditions affecting your feet. It involves stimulating the nerves with electricity to reduce pain and increase mobility in patients with chronic conditions such as arthritis. ES therapy may also improve recovery time following foot and ankle surgery.
Electrical stimulation requires no incisions or needles. Instead, your doctor places the electrodes on your skin, overlying the injured area. The electrical current generated by these electrodes stimulates your neuromuscular system to function more efficiently, increasing flexibility and motion.
Foot and ankle pain is one of the most common reasons people visit their doctor. However, the methods mentioned above can effectively relieve your pain long term. If you are suffering from foot or ankle pain, it is best to seek treatment immediately.
Your podiatrist will examine your feet and ankles to change for any physical injury or damage. Depending on their review, they might recommend various options that can help relieve your pain without surgery. Ensure to inquire about the best type of treatment that will work best for your condition.
