Understanding Foot Pain: Causes, Relief, and Treatment Options

Your feet carry you through life — literally. The average person walks more than 115,000 miles over their lifetime and spends years standing on them. With that much wear and tear, it’s no surprise that foot pain is one of the most common complaints among adults. From sports injuries to poor footwear, discomfort can develop gradually or strike suddenly.

If you’re dealing with foot pain, don’t wait until it limits your mobility. Early intervention can prevent long-term damage and keep you moving comfortably. Here’s a look at three common causes of foot pain and some helpful treatment options.

1. Plantar Fasciitis

Feels like: A thick, tight, or burning pain on the bottom of your foot or heel — especially noticeable when you take your first steps in the morning.

The plantar fascia is a strong band of tissue that supports the arch of your foot and helps propel you forward when you walk. Overuse, poor footwear, or repetitive strain can cause irritation and inflammation, leading to plantar fasciitis.

Treatment options may include:

• Resting and avoiding aggravating activities (like running on pavement)

• Stretching, icing, and strengthening foot exercises

• Wearing supportive footwear and avoiding walking barefoot

• Using custom foot orthotics for proper alignment

• Therapeutic options such as ultrasound, electric stimulation, or LASER therapy to promote healing

• Soft-tissue manipulation to reduce stress and tension

• Night splints to support the plantar fascia during sleep

2. Heel Spurs

Feels like: A sensation of stepping on a small pebble, or sharp pain under the heel — sometimes occurring alongside plantar fasciitis.

A heel spur is a bony growth that forms on the heel bone due to prolonged strain. The body naturally responds to stress by forming new bone along pressure lines, which can lead to a painful protrusion.

Treatment options may include:

• Rest and avoiding high-impact activity

• Stretching, icing, and specific foot exercises

• Foot taping or strapping to reduce strain

• Supportive footwear or custom orthotics

• Ultrasound, electric stimulation, and LASER therapy to decrease inflammation

About 90% of heel spur cases improve with non-surgical treatments, but in severe cases, surgical options like plantar fascia release or spur removal may be recommended.

3. Painful Arches

Feels like: Aching or tenderness in the arch between your heel and the ball of your foot.

Arch pain often results from strained ligaments or overuse, commonly linked to plantar fasciitis or flat feet.

Treatment options may include:

• Rest and ice therapy

• Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises

• Wearing compression stockings and elevating the foot

• Avoiding high heels or unsupportive footwear

• Taping or strapping to reduce stress

• Supportive shoes or custom orthotics

• Massage, ultrasound, or LASER therapy to ease pain and promote recovery

If you’re experiencing ongoing foot pain, there are safe, natural, and effective ways to find relief. Contact our clinic today to learn more about custom orthotics, compression stockings, and non-invasive foot pain therapies. 519-258-8544