Foot pain is the reason why Podiatrists exist!
Foot pain can have various causes, and it is essential to identify the underlying source of the pain in order to determine appropriate treatment.
Ten common causes of foot pain:
- Plantar Fasciitis: This is a common cause of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot, becomes inflamed or strained. Plantar fasciitis typically causes sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, especially in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest.
- Bunions: A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. It occurs when the big toe pushes against the adjacent toe, causing the joint at the base of the big toe to enlarge and become painful. Bunions can cause pain and discomfort in the affected area and may limit toe movement.
- Morton’s Neuroma: Morton’s neuroma is a thickening of the tissue around the nerves leading to the toes, most commonly occurring between the third and fourth toes. It often causes a sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot or a sensation of having a pebble in the shoe.
- Metatarsalgia: Metatarsalgia refers to pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot. It is often caused by excessive pressure on the metatarsal bones due to activities such as running, jumping, or wearing ill-fitting footwear.
- Foot Sprains and Strains: Sprains and strains occur when ligaments or muscles in the foot are stretched or torn. This can happen due to a sudden twisting motion or overuse. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty walking.
- Achilles Tendinitis: Achilles tendinitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It often results from overuse or repetitive stress on the tendon and causes pain and stiffness in the back of the heel.
- Stress Fractures: Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bones of the foot, usually caused by repetitive stress or overuse. They typically cause localized pain, swelling, and tenderness.
- Ingrown Toenails: An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and potential infection.
- Arthritis: Various forms of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, can affect the joints in the foot and cause pain, stiffness, and swelling.
- Nerve Disorders: Certain nerve disorders, such as peripheral neuropathy, can cause foot pain. This can result from nerve damage due to conditions like diabetes, autoimmune diseases, or other neurological disorders.