You might get pinched to grow an inch, or to ensure that you’re not dreaming, but when a nerve gets pinched, the only thing that grows is the pain and tingling feelings, which can definitely become a nightmare!
A pinched or compressed nerve in your foot can result in pain, a feeling of pins and needles, as well as burning sensations and numbness, all of which interfere with your quality of life. Activities you once enjoyed can become unbearable, and even day-to-day tasks can be difficult. Determining what’s behind pinched nerves provides valuable insight as to how you can prevent them from happening to you.
The most common culprits of a compressed nerve in the foot include:
With all that in mind, here are ways you can prevent a pinched nerve from occurring:
Healthy habits. Eating a nutritious diet and exercising regularly helps with circulation as well as maintaining a healthy weight, reducing pressure on nerves. Alcohol inhibits the flow of nutrients to your nerves, so limiting your intake can also contribute to keeping nerves healthy. Finally, staying strong and flexible as a result of exercise and stretches encourages not only overall health, but healthy nerves as well!
Taking breaks. Activities that include repetitive actions are especially hard on nerves and can cause injuries and inflammation that put the squeeze on them! Be sure to take breaks during your sports and hobbies, and intersperse other activities throughout your routine. If you sustain an injury, seek treatment so it heals correctly.
Managing underlying conditions. It’s important to treat and manage conditions like diabetes and arthritis that can have ill-effects on nerve health. Staying on top of such conditions will go a long way toward keeping nerves safe from compression or damage.
Avoiding cramped positions and shoes. Make sure you don’t sit or rest for long periods of time with legs crossed which can cut off circulation and aid in nerve problems. Also, wear shoes that fit properly and do not squeeze toes or place too much pressure on the balls of your feet, and in turn the nerves found there.
If you follow these prevention tips, you will hopefully sidestep nerve problems, although there are other factors that can’t be controlled — like age, gender, and heredity – which may increase your risk. That’s why it’s important to come see us at the first signs of pain and tingling, and other symptoms. We will determine what’s behind your pinched nerve and get you started on an appropriate treatment plan. Call (812) 333-4422 to schedule a visit at our Bloomington, IN office today.
