Foot pain can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain that affects your ability to walk, exercise, or even stand for extended periods. Given that our feet bear the weight of our entire body and support daily movements, it’s crucial to identify the underlying cause of foot pain to seek appropriate treatment.
At Orthopedic Sports and Medicine Center, we often encounter a wide range of foot problems and are dedicated to helping you understand the possible reasons for discomfort.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue running along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, becomes inflamed. It typically results in stabbing heel pain, especially in the morning or after long periods of standing. Factors such as overuse, flat feet, or improper footwear can increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis.
Bunions
Bunions are another source of foot pain. A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, causing misalignment in the joint. This condition can lead to swelling, pain, and difficulty wearing shoes. Bunions are often hereditary, but they can also result from wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes or due to arthritis. Without treatment, bunions can worsen over time, leading to chronic pain and difficulty walking.
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis is an overuse injury that affects the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This condition commonly affects athletes or those who suddenly increase their physical activity. It typically causes pain at the back of the heel or along the tendon, especially during physical activities such as walking or climbing stairs.
People with flat feet or fallen arches may also experience foot pain. Flat feet cause the arches of the foot to collapse, placing extra strain on the muscles and ligaments in the foot. This can lead to pain in the arch, heel, or ball of the foot, especially after standing or walking for long periods.
Arthritis
Arthritis is another frequent cause of foot pain, particularly in older adults. Conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can lead to joint inflammation, stiffness, and foot discomfort. These symptoms can worsen over time and result in reduced mobility and function.
Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are small cracks in the foot bones, typically caused by repetitive activities like running or jumping. People who suddenly increase their physical activity are particularly susceptible to stress fractures. These fractures often cause sharp, localized pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest.
Heel Spurs
Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone. They are often associated with plantar fasciitis and can cause sharp heel pain, mainly when walking or standing. Heel spurs are common in people with flat feet, high arches, or those who engage in repetitive activities that stress the heel.
While not all foot pain requires immediate medical attention, there are certain situations where seeing a specialist is essential. If your foot pain persists despite rest and over-the-counter treatments or worsens over time, it may be a sign of a more serious condition. Additional symptoms like severe pain that limits your ability to walk, swelling or redness, numbness, or visible deformities should also prompt you to seek professional care. If your pain follows an injury or trauma, consulting a specialist is essential to rule out fractures or other complications.
Foot Doctors in Elkhart, IN, Goshen, IN, Granger, IN, Middlebury, IN, and Nappanee, IN
Identifying the source of your discomfort is the first step toward effective treatment. Orthopedic Sports and Medicine Center specializes in diagnosing and treating foot pain to help you return to your daily activities as quickly and safely as possible. If you’re experiencing persistent or severe foot pain, consult one of our foot specialists today.
