The Connection Between Foot Health and Sleep

We often think of sleep as a time for our bodies to rest and recharge, but the connection between sleep and our feet goes much deeper than simply feeling refreshed. As kids, we all had the “growing pains” in our feet and legs that woke us up from sleep. But as adults, there are other foot conditions that can interrupt our slumber. This blog post from us at My Chicago Foot Expert will explore the dynamic between these podiatric problems and our ability to catch Zs while offering some practical solutions to alleviate the untimely pain they cause.

Foot Problems That Can Disturb Sleep

Let’s start with the heel. Plantar fasciitis, for example, can cause sharp heel pain that’s particularly bothersome at night and in the morning. Achilles tendonitis can also lead to pain and stiffness in the back of the heel and make sleep uncomfortable.

Metatarsalgia, which involves pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, can make it difficult to find a comfortable sleeping position due to the pressure our reclined body positions place on the feet. Similarly, neuromas, or thickened nerves in the foot, can cause shooting pain, numbness, or tingling that disrupts sleep.

Restless legs syndrome often interferes with sleep due to the irresistible urge to move the legs and the accompanying uncomfortable sensations.

And who can forget arthritis, which classically causes joint pain and stiffness that worsens at night and in the morning.

The opposite is true, too: poor sleep can impair the foot’s ability to heal. Sleep deprivation can affect your gait, coordination, and keep alive the symptoms from any of these conditions.

Tips for Better Sleep and Foot Health

Sleep is for regeneration. It is particularly crucial for tissue repair, reducing inflammation in the joints (especially for arthritis), and overall pain management. That said, here are foot-focused ways to ensure your sleep is near perfect:

• Proper Sleep Posture: Consider sleeping positions that alleviate pressure on your feet. For example, side sleeping with a pillow between your knees can help with plantar fasciitis. Elevating your feet can reduce swelling.
• Foot Care Routine: Establish a relaxing foot care routine before bed, including gentle stretches, massage, and moisturizing.
• Treat Underlying Conditions: Address any underlying foot conditions that may be contributing to sleep problems. Do not do anything to aggravate symptoms during the day, as long periods on your feet, for any foot condition, can cause them to inflame at night.

Now, wearing socks to bed is a personal preference, but here are some factors to consider:

• Warmth and Comfort: Socks can help keep your feet warm, which can be beneficial for those with poor circulation or cold feet.
• Moisture Control: Socks can help absorb moisture and prevent sweaty feet, which can be helpful for those prone to fungal infections.
• Potential Drawbacks: Socks can sometimes restrict circulation or cause overheating, which may disrupt sleep for some individuals.

Contact the talented team at My Chicago Foot Expert by calling (773) 561-8100 or by clicking here to book an appointment with Cook County podiatrist Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in our modern, comfortable Ravenswood location today.