Acute pain in the lower body is in some cases an indication need for surgery. Despite the fact that it may be unavoidable in certain cases, there are methods that can be used to circumvent the need for corrective surgery if done promptly. Early intervention is key when it comes to treating painful foot and leg conditions like plantar fasciitis, hammertoes, and shin splints. Though some of these methods may seem unconventional, or even simplistic, they are quite effective when dealing with the early stages of problems that can arise in the feet.Massage Can Help Treat Painful FeetA very effective treatment option is massage . When tight footwear is worn, our feet can get calluses, blisters, corns, and bunions. The best solution is to stop using shoes that hurt after the first day of wear. If you must keep wearing them, circulation can be restored to the feet through gentle massage and will help them recover. Tenderness and aggravation may be caused by compressed nerves, lack of blood supply, and inflammation. Massaging the affected area with easy circular motions is the best way to relieve painful feet. A soak in lukewarm Epsom salts is also a great way to relieve tight muscles and inflammation. Using a foot cream that contains mint or menthol is a good method to provide the foot with a cool boost. The Mechanics of Foot PronationPronation is the tendency of the foot to move either outward or inward during regular walking movements. When the extent of inward or outward roll is highly-exaggerated, it can cause foot arch support complications, and also shin splints and plantar fasciitis. Acupuncture is a viable means of treating foot and lower leg problems. The thinking behind the needle and the specific places they stimulate is to focus blood and electric flow to the affected areas. Thus, the region is able to heal by itself, and the pain is alleviated. A 1996 study demonstrated that blood flow was returned to areas that were treated with electrical stimulation from acupuncture.Impact is the Foot's Worst Enemy for Those with Flat FeetThe use of orthodics is a great way to prevent foot conditions in the first place, and also to treat lesser foot pain due to inadequate arch support. When the arch faiuls to support itself during walking and running, the arch flattens and cannot properly support the weight or the body. The full energy of the impact can cause plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and bunions, just to name a few. By using foot orthotics, the arch is properly supported, and the whole lower body operates properly regarding absorption of impact. This basic addition to your footwear can make all the difference in how well you perform during activities as well as stop foot pain.For those who are afflicted with major foot problems and conditions, simply walking can be almost impossible. Nonetheless, with appropriate preventive care and prompt treatment provided early on, the feet can heal properly and be prevented from being re-injured.