Foot Pain Overview
Foot pain is discomfort or soreness in the feet that can be caused by a variety of factors, such as injury, overuse, or certain medical conditions. The type and location of the pain can help determine the cause of the problem. For example, pain in the heels or arches may be caused by plantar fasciitis, while pain in the toes may be caused by a hammertoe or bunion. Treatment for foot pain may include rest, ice, medication, and stretching or strengthening exercises, depending on the cause of the pain. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct a structural problem in the foot.
Common Causes of Foot Pain
There are many possible causes of foot pain, and the specific cause can depend on the location and type of pain you are experiencing. Some common causes of foot pain include:
- Overuse injuries: Repetitive strain on the feet, such as from running or standing for long periods of time, can cause various overuse injuries, including plantar fasciitis (pain in the heel or arch), metatarsalgia (pain in the ball of the foot), and stress fractures (tiny cracks in the bones).
- Structural problems: Foot pain can be caused by structural problems, such as flat feet, high arches, bunions, hammertoes, and neuromas (nerve tumors).
- Trauma: Foot pain can result from an injury or trauma, such as a sprained ankle, a broken foot, or a cut.
- Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as arthritis, diabetes, and gout, can cause foot pain.
- Poor footwear: Wearing shoes that do not fit properly or provide enough support can lead to foot pain.
Foot Pain Symptoms
The symptoms of foot pain can vary depending on the cause of the pain. Some common symptoms of foot pain include:
- Aching or soreness in the feet
- Sharp or shooting pain in the feet
- Stiffness or difficulty moving the feet or toes
- Swelling or tenderness in the feet
- Redness or warmth in the affected area
- Difficulty walking or standing
Common Foot Pain Conditions
There are many different conditions that can cause foot pain. Some common foot pain conditions include:
- Plantar fasciitis: This is a condition that causes pain in the heel or arch of the foot, typically due to inflammation of the plantar fascia (a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot).
- Metatarsalgia: This is a condition that causes pain in the ball of the foot, typically due to irritation or inflammation of the metatarsal bones.
- Stress fractures: These are tiny cracks in the bones of the feet that can occur due to overuse or repeated trauma.
- Bunions: These are bony protuberances that form at the base of the big toe and can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty walking.
- Hammertoes: These are deformities of the toes that cause them to curl downward, leading to pain and difficulty moving the toes.
- Neuromas: These are benign tumors that develop on the nerves in the feet and can cause pain, tingling, and numbness.
- Arthritis: This is a condition that causes inflammation and pain in the joints, including the joints in the feet.
If you are experiencing severe or persistent foot pain, or if the pain is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, numbness, or tingling, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider. They can help determine the cause of the pain and recommend appropriate treatment.
Foot Pain FAQ
How can I prevent foot pain?
What is the best treatment for foot pain?
Can foot pain be a sign of a more serious condition?
Is it normal to have foot pain as I get older?
Meet Our Team Of Doctors

Dr. James Yu
Board Certified Anesthesiologist
Board Certified Interventional
Pain Management Physician

Dylan J. O'Rourke
Certified Physician Assistant
Pain Condition We Treat
Improve your quality of life with our comprehensive approach to pain management
We are dedicated to finding individualized treatment options tailored to fit your needs. Our team is dedicated to helping you lead a productive and active life, free from pain and disruption.
We use an integrative approach to conduct a comprehensive evaluation and assess your condition.
Physical examination and review of your medical history. We assess the cause of your pain, determine its severity and duration, and help you develop an individualized treatment plan.
We provide a range of treatments and procedures to address your chronic pain. These include nerve blocks, injections, physical therapy, implantable therapies and more. We also offer health education to help you better manage your condition.





