When your foot muscle tightens up, try these tips to help it relax:
You can also take an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen to help any leftover aches go away.
- If you’re sitting or lying down, stand up and put weight on your cramping foot.
- Actively lift your foot and toes, pulling them up toward your nose (if standing, walk on your heels). You can also stretch the muscles by grabbing your foot with your hand or wrapping a towel, necktie, or belt around the ball of your foot and toes, pulling the foot further up toward you nose.
- Rub your muscle gently as you stretch it. Try putting ice on the area while you massage it.
- If ice doesn't work, put heat on the cramped muscle with a warm towel or heating pad. You can also soak it in warm water.