6 Common Foot Pain Conditions

Foot pain is a common complaint that can significantly impact a person’s mobility and overall quality of life. There are numerous foot pain conditions, each with its own causes, symptoms, and treatments. The following are six common foot pain conditions that Stuart J. Mogul, DPM, FACFAS, treats at his practice in NYC.

1. Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most prevalent causes of heel pain. It occurs when the thick band of tissue (the plantar fascia) that runs along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed or irritated. This condition is often characterized by sharp pain in the heel, especially during the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest. Treatment options include rest, physical therapy, orthotic shoe inserts, and, in severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery.

2. Achilles Tendinitis

Achilles tendinitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It typically results from overuse or excessive strain on the tendon. Symptoms include pain and stiffness at the back of the heel. Rest, ice, physical therapy, and orthotic devices commonly manage Achilles tendinitis.

3. Bunions

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. It can cause pain, redness, and swelling and may lead to the deviation of the big toe towards the other toes. Bunions often result from genetics and wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes. Treatment may involve footwear modifications, orthotics, padding, or surgery in severe cases.

4. Morton’s Neuroma

Morton’s neuroma is characterized by a thickening of the tissue around the nerves leading to the toes, typically between the third and fourth toes. It can cause sharp, burning pain, numbness, and tingling in the ball of the foot. Properly fitted shoes, orthotics, corticosteroid injections, and, in severe cases, surgery can provide relief.

5. Gout

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, including those in the feet. It often presents with sudden and severe pain, redness, and swelling in the big toe joint. Dietary changes, medications to reduce uric acid levels, and anti-inflammatory drugs are commonly used to manage gout.

6. Hammer Toe

Hammer toe is a foot deformity characterized by the bending of one or more toes at the middle joint, causing them to resemble a hammer’s shape. Common symptoms include pain, discomfort, and redness at the affected joint, as well as the development of corns or calluses where the toe rubs against shoes. Treatment options include wearing comfortable, wide-toed shoes, performing toe-strengthening exercises, using orthotic inserts, applying padding or taping, and, in severe cases, undergoing surgery to correct the deformity and restore normal toe alignment.

It is important to note that a qualified podiatrist should properly diagnose and treat foot pain conditions. Stuart J. Mogul, DPM, FACFAS, is a board-certified podiatrist with over 25 years of experience performing advanced foot treatments and minimally-invasive surgery for foot and ankle conditions. If you have foot pain and need medical treatment, contact the office of Dr. Stuart Mogul in NYC to schedule an exam and consultation.