What is Foot Pain?

Foot pain is the pain or discomfort caused to the foot either by an injury, by excessive straining of the foot or due to any condition of the foot affecting the bones, ligaments, nerves, or tendons. It can be acute or chronic, depending on the condition and the part involved.

What are the causes of Foot Pain?

Some of the causes of Foot Pain are:

• Tendinitis
• Bone spurs
• Fractures
• Bunions
• Bursitis
• Corns and calluses
• Diabetic neuropathy
• Flat feet
• Gout
• High heels or poorly fitting shoes
• Ingrown toenails
• Osteoarthritis
• Osteomyelitis
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Plantar fasciitis
• Plantar warts
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• TendinitisTumors

When do I consult a doctor for Foot Pain?

One should see a doctor for Foot Pain if the following symptoms occur:

• Severe pain or swelling
• Pain during specific activities like running
• Open wound on the foot
• Pus oozing from the wound
• Fever related to infection on the foot
• Unable to walk due to pain
• Cannot bear weight or feet feels weak
• Diabetic nephropathy
• Abnormal growth on the foot
• Injury of the foot
• Accident involving the foot

How is Foot Pain diagnosed?

Foot pain can be diagnosed by:

• Physical and visual examination of the foot
• Foot muscle function tests
• Skin inspection
• Nerves and conduction test
• X-ray, MRI, or bone scan

How is Foot Pain treated?

Treatment of Foot Pain depends on the cause of discomfort and pain. Based on the issue, the following types of treatments exist:

• Casts or splints
• Surgeries like bunionectomy
• Physiotherapy
• Arc supports
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Medications for infections
• Ice pack application on the affected area
• Pain relief massages
• Elevating the foot
• Taking proper rest
• Wearing shoes that fit well