If you have a long commute for work, a job that requires you to drive from place to place all day, or have ever done a long road trip that required you to drive, sometimes foot pain comes with these scenarios. Foot pain while driving, also known as Driver's Foot is a condition that some people will notice and ignore, but for others, this condition can bring about a level of pain that makes it harder to drive for long periods, you have ever had foot pain while driving, continue to read this blog post to learn about all things Driver's foot including why it happens, how you can get rid of your foot pain if it has already started, and ways that your can lower your risk of developing driver's foot in the future.
Foot Pain While Driving? All About Driver's Foot
What Causes Driver's Foot?
Driver's foot is seen in the foot that we drive with, at least with cars designed for the American market, and other countries that drive on the right side of the road, your right foot. This pain first will start with driving and can be located at your heel, your big toe, or across the ball of your foot. This can be for several reasons. while driving your heel is resting on the floor of your car. Also when driving your big toe, smaller toes are required to bend or flex to hit the gas or break.
If you are driving for long periods, like sitting in traffic, commuting, or traveling, this can lead to Driver's Foot. As a foot doctor, foot pain while driving is something I see in my patients, and have dealt with personally living in the Phoenix area. Many of us in Maricopa County can commute far distances for work. On the weekends, or to escape the summer heat, we take road trips to Sedona, Flagstaff, Southern California, or even Mexico in search of cooler temperatures, or to see family and friends. Extended-time driving can be an increased risk for developing driver's foot.
Other causes of Driver's Foot include:
1.Your position while driving
Driving for long periods of time in the wrong position for your body can lead to driver's foot.
2.Sitting for too long
Sitting in the same position for too long actually can lower your circulation to your feet, causing foot pain while driving. To avoid this, take short breaks every hour to stretch, walk around, and move your legs and feet.
3. Not wearing the right shoes
Wearing shoes that don't allow your foot to move naturally when driving can increase your risk of developing foot pain.
4. Having other foot problems Conditions like arthritis, plantar fasciitis, or neuropathy can get worse with long driving trips, leading to driver's foot. It is important to be mindful of this during long-haul trips.
Tips for Relief from Driver's Foot
1. Stretch your feet
Simple stretches like ankle circles, flexing, and pointing your foot, as well as giving yourself a quick foot massage your feet during breaks can help improve circulation and lower foot stiffness.
2. Wear the right shoes
Invest in comfortable shoes for driving. If you're wearing high heels, wedges, or any other type of restrictive shoe when driving, changing into a sneaker for example can help lower your risk of developing a driver's foot in the future.
3. Change your driving position
Adjust your car seat to be sure that your feet comfortably reach the pedals. Your knees should be bent at a 90-degree angle.
4. Drink more water
Staying hydrated can improve circulation to your feet and legs, help keep joints lubricated, and lower the risk of developing foot pain while driving.
5. Take regular breaks
Plan rest stops during extended drives to get out of the car, stretch, and walk around. This helps alleviate pressure on your feet and promotes better blood circulation.
6. Ice your feet
Icing your feet at the end of the day, after a long road trip can help in getting rid of driver's foot pain. Apply the ice to your foot for 20 minutes and then remove.
When should you see a doctor about foot pain while driving?
The majority of people who have dealt with driver's foot do get better with the above tips and tricks. If your foot pain is impacting your daily life, making it harder to do day-to-day activities in or out of your car, or if your pain is getting worse, then it is a good time to see a foot doctor.
Key takeaways
Driver's foot or foot pain while driving is a pretty common issue for those who spend many hours behind the wheel. Hopefully, now you understand the causes of driver's foot and have taken away some simple tips for relief.
Again, it's crucial to pay attention to foot pain that is not getting better and to seek out a foot doctor if this is the case for further treatment.
Schedule Your Appointment At Direct Podiatry Arizona Today
Do you have a foot problem and are located in the Phoenix area? My name is Dr. Tarr, and I am the owner of Direct Podiatry Arizona in Tempe. To view my available appointment times, click the link here.