3 first steps for relief from foot & ankle issues

Problems with feet, ankles and legs can put you on your back, but relief is possible. These fist step remedies could bring you relief and help you get moving again.

• All three kinds of foot arthritis will respond to pain relievers and anti-inflammatories, like ibuprofen. Take as directed on the bottle.
• Until you know what's causing the pain, it's a good idea to stop activities that seem to bring it on. Avoid long walks, jumping or running.
• It's important to see a rheumatologist or an orthopaedist. They can determine the root of the problem and prescribe what's necessary to correct it.
• The right doctors can also keep it from worsening, which can decrease stress on arthritic joints.

• Peripheral vascular disease may not have symptoms, or many.
• You may develop what's called "intermittent claudication." These include cramps, pain or fatigue in your legs, buttocks, hips or feet that stops when you stand still.
• In severe cases, your leg pain may be worse at night, when you're lying down and your feet are elevated.
• Your toenails may look cloudy and thicker. Your legs could turn a little blue, white or pink, and you may lose your leg hair. These are all symptoms of a circulation problem.
• Without treatment, sores that don't seem to heal may pop up on your toes or feet. The tissue may eventually die.
• If you have any of the symptoms of peripheral vascular disease, make an appointment with your doctor.
• If you also feel chest or neck pain, numbness, confusion, dizziness, or a sudden headache, call 911. These could be signs of a heart attack or stroke.
• If you have pain in your legs while you're asleep, lower them over the side of the bed and let them hang. This will increase blood circulation and help decrease the pain.
• Until your doctor can see you, the less walking you do, the less you'll hurt. But for the long haul, exercise is key.

• Ninety percent of people with plantar fasciitis improve after two to three months of treatment.
• Stop any activity that may have triggered the inflammation. Let your foot get some rest.
• Pain relievers, such as ibuprofen and naproxe, can help reduce inflammation and pain. Follow the directions on the package.
• Try these exercises before you get out of bed: stretch your arch, Achilles tendon and calf muscles by slowly extending your ankle and pointing your toes toward your chest.
• Buy an over-the-counter heel cushion of rubber or gel to use in your shoes.

Pains in our extremities could be symptoms of much more serious issues, and should be dealt with urgently. Get the attention you require from a doctor, and help your body recover by giving it some rest.