It's a familiar scene for many El Paso residents — the skies darken, the barometric pressure drops, and their feet suddenly start to ache. They're not imagining it. Weather-related foot pain is a real phenomenon, and it can make even the simplest tasks feel like a challenge.
The podiatrists at The Foot Institute serving the El Paso area have seen firsthand how weather changes can impact foot and ankle comfort. Many of our patients report increased foot pain and stiffness when a storm is on the horizon, and we are here to help.
The Science Behind Barometric Pressure and Pain
Barometric pressure refers to the weight of the air around us. When a storm is approaching, the barometric pressure drops. This change in barometric pressure can cause the tissues in your body to expand, putting extra pressure on your joints. For people with preexisting foot and ankle conditions, like the ones listed below, this added stress can trigger a flare-up of pain.
- Arthritis. Both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis can make feet more sensitive to barometric pressure changes. As tissues in the feet expand, this can irritate already inflamed joints.
- Plantar fasciitis. This condition, which causes pain in the heel and arch of the foot, can also be aggravated by weather shifts. When the barometric pressure drops, the plantar fascia ligament can tighten and become inflamed.
- Neuropathy. People with peripheral neuropathy or damage to the nerves in their feet may find that weather changes amplify their symptoms. The burning, tingling, and numbness associated with neuropathy can worsen when a storm is brewing.
- Prior injuries. If someone has previously injured their foot or ankle, the affected area may become more sensitive to shifts in barometric pressure. As a result, an old sprain or fracture can act up when the weather turns.
Lifestyle Changes to Ease Weather-Related Foot Pain
While no one can control the weather, there are steps people can take to manage foot and ankle discomfort during barometric pressure changes. Examples include:
- Stay warm. Keeping feet warm can help ease joint stiffness and pain. When the weather cools down, wearing thick, moisture-wicking socks and insulated shoes can also help.
- Stretch it out. Gentle foot and ankle stretches can help improve flexibility and reduce pain. At The Foot Institute, we share stretches with patients that target their specific condition.
- Massage. Massaging feet and ankles can help stimulate blood flow and reduce inflammation. Gentle pressure and a circular motion on the affected area can help, as can rolling your foot lightly over a tennis ball.
- Support your feet. Wearing supportive shoes and using orthotic devices help distribute pressure evenly across the feet, reducing stress on painful areas. At The Foot Institute, we can help patients find the right footwear for their needs.
How a Podiatrist Can Help With Weather-Related Foot Pain
While at-home strategies can sometimes help, there are times when it's best to visit a podiatrist for weather-related foot and ankle discomfort. If the pain persists for more than a few days or interferes with daily activities, it's time to seek professional care.
The experienced podiatrists at The Foot Institute can help identify the underlying cause of weather-related foot pain and develop personalized treatment plans. Common recommendations for weather foot pain include:
- Custom orthotics. These specially designed shoe inserts can provide targeted support and cushioning to reduce pressure on painful foot areas. By redistributing weight and absorbing shock, custom orthotics can help alleviate weather-related pain and prevent future flare-ups.
- Pain relief medications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation and ease discomfort. The podiatrists can advise on the most appropriate medication and dosage based on the patient's individual needs and medical history. In some cases, topical pain relief creams or gels may also be recommended to provide targeted relief to specific areas of the feet and ankles.
- Exercises and Stretches. Targeted exercises and stretches can help strengthen feet and ankles, improving resilience to weather-related pain. The Foot Institute can design personalized exercise programs that focus on improving flexibility, range of motion, and muscle strength. By addressing underlying weaknesses or imbalances, targeted moves can help reduce the impact of weather changes on foot pain.
- Joint injections. Corticosteroid injections can sometimes provide long-lasting relief from weather-aggravated joint pain. They deliver a powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly to the affected joint, helping to reduce swelling and irritation.
No matter what treatment approach is recommended, the foot doctors at The Foot Institute are committed to helping patients find relief from weather-related foot pain. Our El Paso podiatrists take the time to listen to each patient's concerns, answer their questions, and develop a comprehensive plan that addresses their unique needs and goals.