Foot Pain

Foot pain is any ache or discomfort felt anywhere on the foot. It may feel like a dull ache, burning, tightness or a sharp, stabbing sensation. Some types of foot pain can significantly impact daily activities, so it’s essential to seek medical advice if the pain is severe or persistent, results in swelling or redness, or is caused by underlying medical conditions.

Some types of foot pain may be due to aging, being overweight, being on your feet for long periods or injury. Wearing shoes that fit poorly or do not have foot support or cushioning can also cause foot pain. In addition, people with a foot deformity or those who have experienced trauma to the foot can experience foot pain.

Other conditions that can cause foot pain include:

• Arthritis
• Bunions
• Broken bones
• Calluses and corns
• Gout
• Hammer toes
• Fallen arches
• Morton’s neuroma
• Nerve damage (such as caused by diabetes)
• Plantar fasciitis
• Sprains
• Stress fracture
• Heel spurs
• Achilles tendonitis
• Tendon or ligament tears

Primary risk factors for foot pain include carrying extra weight, aging, foot deformities, previous foot injuries, walking or standing for too long, wearing poorly fitting shoes, participation in high-impact sports, inadequate foot care/hygiene and medical conditions, such as diabetes and arthritis.

Preventing foot pain begins with proper care. If you have a preexisting condition that results in foot pain, wear appropriate footwear, including specific socks, inserts or doctor-recommended shoes. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding uncomfortable shoes can reduce the risk of foot pain.

The following steps can prevent foot problems and foot pain:

• Wear supportive shoes with good arch support and cushioning.
• Wear shoes with plenty of room around the ball of your foot and toes and a wide toe box.
• Avoid narrow-toed shoes and high heels.
• Wear sneakers as often as possible, especially when walking.
• Replace running shoes frequently.
• Warm up and cool down when exercising. Always stretch first.
• Stretch your Achilles tendon. A tight Achilles tendon can lead to poor foot mechanics.
• Increase your exercise slowly to avoid putting excessive strain on your feet.
• Stretch the plantar fascia or the bottom of your feet.
• Lose weight if you need to.
• Learn exercises to strengthen your feet and avoid pain.

Symptoms of foot pain may include:

• Sudden, severe pain in any part of the foot
• Injury-induced pain, especially if your foot is bleeding or bruising, or you cannot put weight on it
• Redness or swelling of the joint
• An open sore or ulcer on your foot
• Pain accompanied by fever

Your provider will do a physical exam to diagnose the source of your foot pain. You will be asked questions about your symptoms and medical history. Your doctor may also request an X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan to help with diagnosis.

The following steps that you can do on your own may help relieve your foot pain:

• Apply ice to reduce pain and swelling.
• Keep your painful foot elevated as much as possible.
• Reduce your activity until you feel better.
• Wear shoes that fit your feet and are right for your activity.
• Wear foot pads to prevent rubbing and irritation.
• Use an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. (Talk to your healthcare provider first if you have a history of ulcer or liver problems.)

An individualized treatment plan from your doctor will depend on the diagnosis and cause of the foot pain. Treatment for foot pain often includes:

• Wearing a splint or a cast (if you broke a bone)
• Wearing specifically prescribed shoes that protect your feet
• Removal of plantar warts, corns or calluses by a foot specialist
• Orthotics, or shoe inserts
• Physical therapy to relieve tight or overused muscles
• Foot surgery

Most people can avoid foot pain or limit recovery time with proper care and a healthy lifestyle. Invest in supportive footwear, rest often, get regular exercise that includes stretching and maintain a healthy weight.