Diagnosis of pain on the inner side of the foot
An anamnesis – i.e. asking the doctor about the cause of the accident, onset of symptoms, progression, accompanying symptoms and much more – is important to narrow down possible causes of the pain.For example, if the pain occurred after an accident or a sports injury, in many cases an X-ray must be taken to identify a possible fracture. The physical examination also plays an important role. Already during the examination, foot malpositions such as buckling flat feet or flat feet can be detected. Pain can also occur during the passive movement of the foot: In the case of inflammation of the tibialis posterior tendon, for example, pain occurs when the doctor passively turns the foot outwards.
Therapy of pain on the inside of the foot
Fractures often have to be immobilized with a plaster cast so that the bone can grow together again in the correct position. If the tibialis posterior tendon is inflamed, it is important that the foot is not subjected to any further stress and that the tendon is protected. Swelling can be counteracted by cooling in case of inflammation.
Furthermore, so-called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as iburprofen can be taken for pain and inflammation. In case of tarsal tunnel syndrome, the ligamentous apparatus which causes the nerve entrapment may have to be surgically split. If the kinked foot results in restricted movement and progressive malpositioning, it should also be treated.
Physiotherapy, calf muscle stretching exercises and walking barefoot can help here. It may be necessary to wear insoles. In rare cases an operation may be necessary.
The heel spur should also be treated by stretching the sole of the foot and calf muscles several times a day. Physiotherapy, painkillers and insoles are also used here. If overweight is the reason for the heel spur, weight reduction should be performed.
If these treatment approaches are ineffective, radiotherapy against the pain can be considered. If the pain remains unchanged, surgery may be necessary. Hallux rigidus is also initially treated with physiotherapy, painkillers and insoles.
If the success of the treatment is not apparent here either, surgery may also be necessary in this case. The same applies if there is no improvement of the external navicular system. These articles may be of further interest to you:
- Insoles for heel spurs
- Insoles for a hallux rigidus
