When your feet hurt, every step is a challenge. Whether the pain is a result of plantar fasciitis or complications from a chronic condition like diabetes, you just want relief. The expert foot doctors at Choice Podiatry Associates can treat all types of foot problems. Since you may not be able to visit the podiatrist every time you experience discomfort, there are some ways you can relieve foot pain at home.

Here are three stretches these podiatrists recommend to bring some relief to aching feet:

• Toe Point: Do this exercise sitting or standing, depending on your ability to balance. Pick up one foot, flex your toes back towards your face, and then point them away from you. Repeat several times and switch sides. This simple movement stretches out all of the little muscles on the bottom and tops of your feet. It can also help improve blood circulation.
• Sitting Figure-Four Stretch: This move is helpful for those suffering from plantar fasciitis. With bare feet, sit down and lift up your right leg. Place the right ankle slightly above the left knee and flex your toes. Use your right hand to hold onto your toes, bending them back towards your shin. This move stretches the plantar fascia, or the band of tissue that connects the bottom of the heel to the ball of the foot. Repeat on both sides several times a day. 
• Ball Rolling: If you love foot massages, this is one you can do at home by yourself. Find a tennis or golf ball and roll it underneath your foot for a few minutes on each side. This type of gentle massage eases arch and heel pain.

These exercises will help alleviate some of the pain, but for more focused and permanent treatment, see a specialist at Choice Podiatry Associates. These foot doctors offer a wide variety of services, including treatment for plantar fasciitis, ankle sprains, and diabetic foot care. With three convenient locations in Cincinnati, it’s easy to find an office near you. Call (513) 547-2424, (513) 984-1911, or (513) 563-2225 to make an appointment with a podiatrist or check out their list of foot care services online.