Common Causes of Foot Pain

Foot pain can stem from a variety of causes, ranging from injuries to medical conditions. Understanding the underlying cause is key to effective treatment. Some of the most common causes of foot pain include:

• Plantar Fasciitis: A common cause of heel pain, this condition occurs when the tissue connecting the heel to the toes becomes inflamed.
• Achilles Tendonitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, often caused by overuse or injury, leading to pain in the back of the ankle.
• Bunions: A bony bump at the base of the big toe can cause pain and deformity.
• Neuropathy: Nerve damage that causes burning, tingling, or shooting pain in the feet.
• Arthritis: Joint inflammation that can lead to stiffness, swelling, and pain in the feet.
• Stress Fractures: Small cracks in the bones of the feet due to overuse or trauma.
• Overuse or Injury: Repetitive stress or accidents can lead to foot pain and discomfort.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, gout, and obesity can contribute to foot pain.

Symptoms of Foot Pain

• Foot pain can vary depending on the underlying condition, but common symptoms include:
• Sharp or Dull Pain: Pain may occur suddenly or gradually, and it can range from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing sensations.
• Swelling and Redness: Inflammation can cause the affected area to swell and appear red or warm to the touch.
• Difficulty Walking or Standing: Pain can make it challenging to stand for extended periods or walk normally.
• Throbbing: A pulsating or throbbing sensation in the foot may indicate inflammation or injury.

How a physiotherapist can help

Assessment –We will ask you in detail about the symptoms of your foot pain and assess the biomechanics of how you move, your posture and the function of your muscles, joints and ligaments.

Diagnosis – We will then diagnose the cause of the pain, this may include identification of a number of factors which have contributed to the pain starting.

Treatment – We will formulate a treatment plan and discuss this with you. Treatments will first be targeted at reducing pain and then rehabilitation to maximise functioning of the affected area. Treatments may include:

• Manual Therapy
• Rehabilitative exercise
• Acupuncture
• Electrotherapy