5 Common Causes of Foot Pain You Should Know

Ragui Sadek Surgeon Somerset, NJ

Dr. Ragui Sadek’s career has been one of significant experience and distinction. Dr. Sadek is a premier surgeon in the New York and New Jersey area. A Clinical Assistant Professor of surgery at RWJ Medical School and the Director of bariatric surgery program at RWJ University Hospital, Dr. Sadek has established a state-of-the-art... more

Foot pain is quite an unpleasant issue that may affect everyone. If your feet are aching because of tiredness and the pain can be eliminated with the help of a cold shower or massage, it may be considered normal. 

However, there are many other factors that can contribute to the development of foot pain. Some of them should be monitored while others may require professional treatment. In this article, we gathered five common causes of foot pain you should know.

1. Foot Issues

There are many diseases and infections that can affect your feet and cause painful sensations. For example, the inflammation of the plantar fascia (plantar fasciitis) can cause unbearable foot pain in the morning and after exercising. Bunions that occur because of the shifted big toe can cause severe pain while wearing shoes and walking. Fungal infection can also make your feet itchy and painful. 

It is important to understand that all conditions that cause foot pain should be evaluated by the foot doctor. If left untreated, some of them can cause gait changes and make even the simplest movements impossible.

2. Pregnancy

Pregnant women often complain of foot swelling and pain in the last trimester. Indeed, the weight gain and hormonal changes that occur in women during pregnancy can affect the whole body, including feet. The reality is that the body accumulates liquids that cause swelling. That’s why it is recommended to lift your legs and rest if you have noticed foot swelling.

A pregnant woman can experience foot and leg pain because of calcium deficiency. That’s why it is recommended to include more dairy products into your diet during pregnancy. Moreover, the growing fetus, placenta, and amniotic fluid can interfere with the normal blood supply to legs and feet. 

3. Excessive Weight

Foot pain can also occur because of extra weight. The reality is that feet bear the body weight and the more weight they have to bear, the more stress is placed on your bones, tissues, and joints. This can result in inflammation and arthritis which can also contribute to the constant pain. You should also know that weight gain can affect your posture.

When you gain extra weight, your body balance shifts, which causes additional stresses on your feet. Such an uneven weight distribution can lead to severe pain, even while doing the simplest tasks like walking. If you want to love the weight and get rid of foot pain, visit a weight loss center for proper help.

4. Poor-fitting Shoes

Have you ever worn completely uncomfortable shoes that made you feet achy for a few days? If yes, you probably know how important it is to choose good shoes. However, many people still wear narrow, stiff, or poor-fitting shoes and complain of foot pain. 

You should also know that your feet are changing with age so the shoes you wore 10 years ago can be too small for you. That’s why it is reasonable to ensure your foot every few years if you want to choose comfortable shoes. 

5. Foot Injuries

Foot injuries can cause mild to severe pain. You should understand that not only open fractures and dislocations can be considered foot injuries. You can get a tiny fracture that may even cause mild pain but it can cause a lot of problems over time. 

Athletes are more prone to develop foot injuries like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, stress fractures, ankle sprain, and neuroma. If you have an injury and experience foot pain, it is essential to visit a doctor to avoid further complications.