From the Guidelines
For self-management of left foot pain, prioritize protective measures and regular self-examination to prevent further complications, especially in individuals with diabetes or at risk of foot ulcers, as recommended by the most recent guidelines 1. The key strategies include:
- Not walking barefoot, in socks without shoes, or in thin-soled slippers, whether indoors or outdoors, to prevent injuries and infections 1.
- Washing feet daily with careful drying, particularly between the toes, and using emollients to moisturize dry skin 1.
- Cutting toenails straight across to avoid ingoming and infections 1.
- Examining feet daily for any signs of ulcers, wounds, or other abnormalities, and seeking professional help promptly if any issues are found 1.
- Wearing properly fitting shoes that accommodate the shape of the feet, and considering custom-made footwear or insoles for individuals with foot deformities or history of ulcers 1.
- Avoiding smoking and managing diabetes and circulation problems to reduce the risk of foot ulcers and other complications 1.
- Considering integrated foot care, including professional foot care, structured education, and adequate footwear, for individuals at moderate or high risk of foot ulcers 1. It is essential to note that while these self-management strategies are beneficial, they should be part of a comprehensive approach to foot care, especially for individuals with diabetes or at risk of foot ulcers. Regular check-ups with healthcare professionals and adherence to their recommendations are crucial for preventing and managing foot-related complications. If pain persists or worsens, or if there are signs of infection, ulceration, or other severe conditions, seeking immediate medical attention is necessary.
From the Research
Self-Management Strategies for Left Foot Pain (Podalgia)
- The evidence suggests that self-management interventions can be effective in improving pain, mental health, and health-related quality of life outcomes for individuals with chronic pain, including foot pain 2.
- A study on foot care self-management in non-diabetic older adults found that a nurse-led intervention can improve knowledge, self-efficacy, behaviors, pain, and foot health outcomes 3.
- For individuals with diabetes, self-management of foot health is complex and requires readiness to self-manage, communication between patients and healthcare providers, and reinforcement of positive foot health behaviors 4.
- Non-surgical management of hallux valgus, a common cause of foot pain, may include footwear, foot orthoses, and strengthening exercises, as well as self-management advice and education 5.
- A pilot and feasibility trial on plantar heel pain found that self-management advice, exercise, and foot orthoses can be effective in reducing pain and improving function, and that a combined intervention may be more effective than self-management advice alone 6.
Key Components of Self-Management Strategies
- Education and advice on foot care and self-management
- Exercise and physical activity to strengthen foot muscles and improve function
- Use of footwear and foot orthoses to reduce pain and improve mobility
- Self-monitoring and self-management of foot health outcomes
- Communication and reinforcement from healthcare providers to support self-management efforts 3, 4, 5, 6
Considerations for Implementation
- Readiness to self-manage foot health is an important factor in the success of self-management interventions 4.
- Healthcare providers can play a critical role in supporting self-management efforts through education, advice, and reinforcement 2, 4.
- Interventions should be tailored to the individual's needs and preferences, and should include a combination of self-management strategies to maximize effectiveness 5, 6.