Foot pain can begin in the skin, toenails, or muscles. It can also affect joints, tendons, or bones. An injury is one possible cause, especially after a fall, sudden twist, or direct blow. Repeated pressure can also irritate the feet. Long hours of standing, running, or work that involves heavy lifting can strain tissues. Shoes that lack proper support can place extra stress on the heels and arches. Shoes that are too tight can rub the skin or press against the toes. Pain may feel sharp, burning, or achy, depending on the cause. Its exact location provides useful clues.
Health problems can cause foot pain even when no injury has occurred. Arthritis can lead to swollen, stiff, or painful joints. Diabetes can damage nerves and reduce feeling in the feet. It can also slow healing and raise the risk of wounds. Poor blood flow can cause cramping, cold feet, or changes in skin color. Other causes of foot pain include flat feet, high arches, or bunions. A bunion is a bony bump at the base of the big toe. Ingrown toenails, corns, and fungal infections can also make standing or walking uncomfortable. Similar symptoms can have different causes, making a professional assessment important.
A chiropodist can examine the painful area and ask when discomfort started. The assessment can include checking skin condition, joint movement, and foot shape. The chiropodist can also study how you stand and walk. These findings help identify whether the pain comes from pressure, injury, or an underlying health problem. Treatment is based on the cause and the condition of your feet. A chiropodist can provide nail care, remove painful corns, or prescribe custom orthotics to provide support. If foot pain is interfering with daily activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Foot pain can have many causes. To receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment for your foot pain, please consult with one of the chiropodists from Complete Family Footcare & Therapy. Our clinicians will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
There are a variety of different conditions that can cause foot pain, including:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes
- Injuries to the muscles, bones, tendons, or ligaments in the feet
- Arthritis
- Flat feet
- Ingrown toenails
Symptoms
The type and location of your foot pain can help determine what may be causing it and what type of treatment options are best for you.
Common types of foot pain include:
- Heel pain
- Arch pain
- Toe pain
- Ball of foot pain
- Pain that has a stabbing, burning, or tingling quality
- Pain that is constant, intermittent, or that gets better or worse depending on the situation
Diagnosis
A thorough medical history and physical examination of your feet will be required to determine a diagnosis. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs may be performed to rule out or confirm certain diagnoses.
Treatment
Treatment will depend on the cause of the pain. Common treatments for foot pain include resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot, wearing orthotics, or taking anti-inflammatory medications.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in North York and Mississauga, ON .
