Dancing and Foot Pain

As millions of viewers each week watch celebrities strut their stuff on television programs like “Dancing With The Stars" and "Strictly Come Dancing" adults are meeting in clubs and dance studios to find their stride on local dance floors.

Dancing can burn calories, boost energy, improve circulation and tone muscles. In the long term this can lead to increased strength, endurance and flexibility. In fact, dancing can burn just as many calories as other more "traditional" exercises, like brisk walking or downhill skiing. In addition, dancing relieves tension and stress which can significantly improve your mood in a credit crunch!

However, feet are often overlooked as new inductees to dancing strut their stuff. The most common foot complaints include:

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a common ailment that affects the forefoot, typically in young people who engage in physical activity like running or dancing. Its most common symptom is pain in the ball-of-the-foot, especially on the medial or inner side. The pain usually begins as a mild ache and increases gradually as the aggravating activity is continued. It may build to an intense throbbing. In most cases there is little or no bruising or redness. Metatarsal pads and silicone insoles can help reduce sesamoiditis. View Pads

Foot blisters

Blisters occur when feet get hot and sweaty, making socks stick to the feet. The sock and foot then rub against each other and the inside of the shoe. Fluid fills up a space between layers of skin to protect the area, like a small balloon. Appropriate shoes and padding can help prevent blisters.

View Pads

Corns & Calluses

A corn is a localized thickening of the skin due to pressure. Corns often occur on the top of the toes where there is pressure from the shoes. However, they also occur at the sole of the foot and in between toes. Certain corns may become entwined with the nerves of the skin, these corns are particularly painful. Metatarsal pads and silicone sleeves for your toes can help prevent corns on the toes and soles of feet. View Products for Corns

Over Pronation

One of the most common causes of foot and leg discomfort is a condition known as excessive/ over pronation. Normal pronation, or "turning inward" of the foot is necessary as the foot adapts to the ground. With over pronation, the arch flattens, collapses, and soft tissues stretch. This can lead to a variety of foot and leg conditions. Orthotics can help prevent associated pain from over pronation. View Over Pronation Products

Heel Pain

The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis which is commonly referred to as a heel spur. Plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue which runs along the bottom surface of the foot, from the heel to the toes. Symptoms include a dull ache which is felt most of the time with episodes of a sharp pain in the centre of the heel or on the inside margin of the heel. Silicone heel cups and insoles can help reduce heel pain. View Heel Pain Products