Foot and ankle pain can happen to anyone, from athletes to someone who spends a lot of time on their feet. Understanding the causes and knowing how to manage the discomfort is essential for maintaining mobility and overall well-being. Not only is foot pain a common issue, but it can significantly impact daily life if not addressed. Here are the five most common reasons for foot or ankle pain, why they occur and how to relieve them.
- Overuse and Injury
One of the leading causes of foot pain is overuse or injury, particularly for those who engage in sports, stand for long periods or wear poorly fitting shoes. Overuse can lead to conditions like plantar fasciitis or tendonitis, where the tissues in the foot become inflamed and painful.
If you’re active or spend much of your day standing, it’s crucial to stretch your calves and feet regularly. Gentle stretches help maintain flexibility and reduce the risk of injury. Wearing shoes with good arch support and a wide toe box is also important. Shoes should be sturdy and not easily folded or bent. For immediate relief, applying ice packs or rolling your foot over a frozen water bottle can help reduce inflammation. If standing for long periods, consider using low-grade compression stockings to improve circulation and minimize discomfort.
- Bunions and Hammertoes
Structural deformities like bunions and hammertoes can also be a source of chronic foot pain. These conditions occur when the bones of the foot become misaligned, leading to pain and discomfort.
Choosing footwear that accommodates these deformities is essential. Shoes with a wide toe box and orthotic inserts can help reduce pain. If these measures don’t alleviate discomfort, it’s important to consult a doctor about advanced options, such as custom orthotics or surgical interventions. Although gentle stretching and foot mobility exercises can be beneficial, they may not prevent these conditions from developing.
- Fractures and Sprains
Acute injuries, such as fractures or sprains, are another common cause of foot and ankle pain. These injuries often result from accidents or high-impact activities.
The severity of the injury will dictate the appropriate treatment. For minor injuries, the RICE protocol (rest, ice, compression, elevation) is effective in managing pain and swelling. However, if the injury is severe or impairs your ability to walk, seeking medical attention for imaging and further evaluation is crucial. While acute injuries are difficult to prevent, timely treatment can prevent them from worsening.
- Inadequate Footwear
Wearing shoes that don’t provide proper support is a significant contributor to foot pain. Shoes that lack arch support, cushioning or a wide toe box can lead to various foot problems.
To avoid pain, choose shoes with good arch support, adequate cushioning and a wide toe box. Again, the shoe should also be sturdy and not easily twist or bend. Proper footwear is essential in preventing and managing foot pain.
- Diabetes, Vascular Disease and Fungal Infections
Systemic conditions, such as diabetes, vascular disease and fungal infections, can lead to chronic foot pain and other complications.
For individuals with systemic conditions, daily foot inspections are crucial. Look for cuts, callouses and blisters, and keep feet clean and moisturized to prevent skin breakdown. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise and weight management can also help prevent complications. Persistent pain, redness, swelling or wounds that don’t heal should prompt a visit to the doctor. Surgical options, such as correcting bunions or fusing arthritic joints, may be necessary for more severe structural issues.
For persistent or acute foot pain, over-the-counter NSAIDs or topical treatments like Voltaren gel can provide relief. Avoid walking barefoot, and always wear shoes to protect your feet throughout the day. If pain persists despite these measures, consult a health care provider to explore further treatment options.
If you or a loved one are experiencing foot or ankle pain, schedule a same- or next-day appointment with one of our specialists at 704-863-HURT (4878) or AtriumHealth.org/HURT.
