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Deborah Meaden health: Why the Dragons’ Den star needs steroid injections in her feet

Deborah Meaden, who stars on the BBC’s Dragons’ Den, revealed that years on from taking part in Strictly Come Dancing she suffers pain in the balls of her feet. Speaking to Closer Magazine she said: “I still have permanent pain in the balls of my feet, which is a constant reminder that I did the show. It started after I spent ten hours a day waltzing and I put too much pressure on them. Everybody is injured in some way (on the show) but now I need to have steroid injections in my feet to keep them supple.”

It started after I spent ten hours a day waltzing and I put too much pressure on them

Deborah Meaden

Deborah admitted she should have the steroid injections every six weeks, but revealed she leaves her feet until they hurt too much before seeing her specialist.

But despite her constant pain, Deborah also revealed how much she enjoyed the experience of Strictly and hasn’t given up hitting the dance floor.

She reportedly dances for two hours a week to keep fit.

Pain in the ball of the foot

This type of pain is known as metatarsalgia and is often caused by exercising too much or wearing shoes that are too tight.

Some people’s foot shape can also put extra pressure on the ball of the foot.

But there’s not always a clear cut cause for pain in this area of the foot, and you should see your GP to discuss treatment options.

The NHS advises metatarsalgia can be eased at home.

When you see a GP, the health body says it may be suggested you try the following:

  • Rest and raise your foot when you can
  • Put an ice pack (or bag of frozen peas) in a towel on the painful area for up to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours
  • Wear wide comfortable shoes with a low heel and soft sole
  • Use soft insoles or pads you put in your shoes
  • Try to lose weight if you’re overweight
  • Try regular gentle stretching exercises
  • Take paracetamol

You should avoid:

  • Taking ibuprofen for the first 48 hours after an injury
  • Walking or standing for long periods
  • Wearing high heels or tight pointy shoes

You should definitely see a GP if the pain is severe or stoping you doing normal activities, or if the pain gets worse or keeps coming back.

It’s also advised you see a doctor if the pain doesn’t improve after treating it at home for two weeks, if you have any tingling or loss of sensation in your foot, or if you have diabetes – as foot problems can signal something more serious.

Steroid injections are used to treat a range of conditions, including joint pain, arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.

Your doctor will recommend whether or not you should have steroid injections.

Another star who suffered a foot injury is EastEnders’ Tamzin Outhwaite. 

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