Therapy
The therapy of an inflammation of the foot depends on the cause of the complaints and whether it is an acute or chronic event. In principle, painkillers can be administered to the patient when pain occurs. One therapeutic option is the administration of so-called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or diclofenac.
Paracetamol has proven to be another pain medication. For very severe pain, the administration of opioids such as morphine may be considered. Painkillers only treat the symptom but not the actual cause.
If an inflammation of the foot, for example an inflammation of the nail bed, has its origin in pathogens such as bacteria, fungi or viruses, one tries to eliminate the germs. If the infection is purely superficial, local antiseptic therapy with creams is sufficient. As soon as an infection goes deeper, antibiotic or surgical therapy must be carried out.
The antibiotic therapy depends on the expected bacterial spectrum. Since a viral infection of the nail bed is often caused by herpes viruses, the administration of an antiviral drug such as Aciclovir must be considered. In addition, in the case of nail bed inflammation, it is important to avoid the trigger of the inflammation.
In many cases, bacterial or fungal nail bed inflammation is associated with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus, so that blood sugar should first be optimally adjusted and regularly checked. Baths and ointments with anti-inflammatory additives have a supportive effect in the case of an inflammation of the nail bed. Usually such an inflammation is accompanied by pain, so that immobilization of the affected area is recommended.
In any case, it is important to consult a doctor in time. It is not advisable to treat the inflamed area independently. If the cause is an acute attack of gout, the administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as indomethacin as well as steroids or colchicine can provide relief.
In rheumatoid arthritis, non-steroidal antirheumatic drugs and steroids are also used. In addition, methotrexate and, depending on the severity and inflammatory activity, biologicals such as Infliximab can also be used. In any case, ergotherapy should be used to support the treatment.