Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.
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Foot Pain Causes Explained
Foot pain is a broad term used to describe discomfort in any part of the foot, including the heel, arch, toes, or ball of the foot. It is one of the most common reasons patients seek care from a podiatrist, because the feet are essential for standing, walking, and overall mobility. Foot pain can develop gradually or suddenly and may range from mild soreness to sharp or debilitating discomfort. In clinical terms, it can be associated with musculoskeletal strain, nerve irritation, joint inflammation, or structural abnormalities that affect how the foot functions during movement.
Symptoms of foot pain vary, depending on the underlying cause, but often include aching, burning, stabbing sensations, or tenderness in specific areas of the foot. Some people may experience pain only during activity, while others feel discomfort even at rest. Additional symptoms can include reduced range of motion, difficulty bearing weight, or changes in walking patterns as the body compensates for discomfort. In some cases, numbness or tingling may also be present, suggesting possible nerve involvement, like neuropathy or nerve compression.
Risk factors for developing foot pain include wearing improper footwear, excessive physical activity, prolonged standing, and obesity. All of these can place added stress on the foot structures. Age is also a contributing factor, as natural wear and tear can weaken bones, joints, and soft tissues. Individuals with flat feet, high arches, diabetes, or arthritis are at increased risk. This is due to structural or medical conditions that affect foot stability and function. Occupations that require long hours of standing on hard surfaces may also contribute to chronic foot pain.
The causes of foot pain include plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, stress fractures, or bunions. Hammertoes, nerve entrapment, or joint degeneration are other factors. Overuse injuries are common in athletes and active individuals, while degenerative conditions are more common in older adults. Poor biomechanics, such as abnormal gait or misalignment, can place uneven pressure on different parts of the foot that lead to pain. Without proper evaluation, the underlying cause may worsen and cause chronic discomfort or mobility limitations. If you have any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Milos Tomich, DPM from Dr. Tomich Foot & Ankle Health Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bone Spurs
- Corns
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Ingrown Toenails
- Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
- Flat Feet
- Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
- And more
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Milwaukee and Wauwatosa, WI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Treating Foot Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are small cracks in a bone that develop from repeated stress rather than a single injury. They are common in the feet because the foot bones absorb pressure with every step. Running, jumping, and other high-impact activities can place repeated force on the same area of bone. When the bone breaks down faster than the body can repair it, a stress fracture can occur. People who suddenly increase exercise levels are at greater risk. Wearing shoes that lack adequate support can also contribute to these injuries. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and tenderness that become worse with activity and improve with rest.
A podiatrist will examine the foot and ask about recent activities and symptoms. X-rays are often used first, although small stress fractures are not always visible. More detailed imaging, such as an MRI, can help identify tiny cracks in the bone. Once a stress fracture is confirmed, treatment focuses on protecting the injured area while the bone heals. This usually means limiting activities that place pressure on the foot. A walking boot, brace, or crutches can help reduce stress on the injured bone.
Healing a stress fracture requires patience because bone repair takes several weeks. Returning to sports or exercise too soon can delay healing and increase the risk of another fracture. A podiatrist can monitor recovery and determine when it is safe to resume normal activities. Treatment also includes identifying the cause of the injury. This can involve evaluating footwear, activity levels, and foot structure. Addressing these factors helps reduce the chance of future stress fractures. If you believe you have a sustained foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis.
Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Milos Tomich, DPM from Dr. Tomich Foot & Ankle Health Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.
How Are They Caused?
Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon. Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.
Risk Factors
- Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
- Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
- Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
- Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
- Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures
Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.
If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Milwaukee and Wauwatosa, WI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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