Foot Pain

What is Foot Pain

Foot pain occurs from distress induced by certain factors in the foot.

Foot pain is a common problem experienced by young athletes involved in different activities such as running and jumping as well as non athletes as part of everyday life.

The foot is composed of different structures including bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles, and as feet bear the weight of our body, they are more prone to injury and pain.

Normally foot pain can be treated through home treatments and may take time to heal. However, in cases of ongoing pain or severe injury, adequate evaluation and treatment is required.

Causes of Foot Pain

Foot pain may arise due to advanced age, being overweight, excessive sports activities or walking, foot injury or trauma, inborn foot deformities, poorly fitted shoes, and from standing on your feet for a long duration.

Certain disorders and conditions may also induce foot pain and include:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Ankle Sprains
• Bone Spurs
• Corns and Calluses
• Plantar Warts
• Heel Spur
• Ingrown Toenail
• Flat Feet
• Bunions
• Diabetic Neuropathy
• Gout
• Osteoarthritis
• Hammertoe, Mallet Toe

The triggering causes for foot pain can be diagnosed by examinations and imaging.

Treatment for Foot Pain

The treatment of foot pain depends upon the fundamental cause and the condition.

Basic Measures for foot pain treatment include

• rest,
• medications,
• ice, compression,
• elevation,
• using crutches to avoid load on the foot, and
• performing stretching and strengthening exercises.

Other Treatments that may be considered include

• Orthotics or new shoes
• Ultrasound,
• Electrical stimulators
• Laser therapy to enhance circulation and stimulate healing, and
• Other approaches.

In some cases, depending upon the condition of the patient and the underlying deformity, surgery may be recommended.