Tuesday, January 12, 2010

Metatarsalgia and Mortons Neuroma: Promising Alternative Therapies

During those periods when foot discomfort stops you from being mobile, there seems to be nothing that can help, other than to get off your feet. Seemingly never-ending doctor's appointments, work losses, inactivity, and even putting on pounds can all be side effects of persistent pain in your feet. However, there are effective solutions available. Eastern acupuncture, special massage methods, high heel orthotics, and foot creams and oils can help your feet be renewed and free of discomfort.

Your feet will have not only less pain in the foot ligaments such as ball of foot pain, but the fluid accumulation will subside so that sensitive areas can heal and be calmed. Foot muscles can also be a source for extreme pain in the feet and toes.. All three of these soothing, all natural fixes will have you free from foot pain right away.

Trying Needle Therapy Can Pay Off Big Time with Mortons Neuroma

Eastern acupuncture is the practice of gently pushing hair-thin needles into "chi", which are regions in the body to rejuvenate the energy and blood flow that has been interrupted by injury. This can easily happen on our feet with athletic activities, wearing high heels, and with certain foot conditions such as metatarsalgia and Morton's Neuroma. Treatment for Morton's Neuroma can start with a variety of massage techniques and needle acupuncture to relieve tender nerves and help to start the healing process.

Certified acupuncture professionals practice a valuable art in that they are almost always able to effectively eliminate constant foot pain in their patients. In 90's study reported in the journal "Acupuncture in Medicine", specialists have discovered that electrical stimulation of the needles boosted blood flow to the problem areas and improved recovery.

Trying Massage Therapy Can Speed Healing Time for Mortons Neuroma

Healthy blood flow is necessary when trying to help ailments that affect our feet. Massage methods can help with ball of foot pain and aid in Morton's Neuroma. These methods are becoming very popular among doctors, sports medicine professionals, reflexologists, and physical therapists. By massaging the bottoms of the feet with a gentle sweeping touch, blood flow is brought to the feet instantly.

Explained by the American Massage Therapy Association, two great methods involve specifically using the thumbs. Several methods seem to work best, including the sliding rub and walking methods. With the first technique, the thumbs are held on the top of the feet and then move in a back and forth motion up and down. The second technique involves the thumbs being positioned on the bottom of the feet and are walked upwards while pressing steadily.

Nature's Little Miracles Help Ball Of Foot Pain

There's no one smarter than Mother Nature when it comes to foot cures. Some of the best foot creams and oils have natural oils included to provide relief, freshen, and improve blood flow. Menthol is one of the most commonly used oils. Drawn out from the leaves of the mint plant, once applied to the skin, menthol provides a cooling sensation.

Eucalyptus and camphor are also sometimes found in foot creams and oils. These compounds have similar advantages to menthol because they provide a cooling sensation and help to increase blood flow. Aloe also helps fight dry skin and cleanses feet while giving lubrication during massage therapy. For those who need a good soak in a warm foot bath, Epsom salts help detoxify the feet while lessening inflammation.

One of the key ways to get a handle on foot pain caused by wearing shoes with high heels are high heel orthotics. These devices provide support for your foot arches and metatarsals, thus diminishing the stress on our metatarsals.

Whether you have ball of foot pain, are already using high heel orthotics, or need Morton's Neuroma; acupuncture, massage, and foot oils can help. Feel your best and get back on your feet today by trying out these three amazing techniques.