Pain Under the Foot: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Causes of pain under the foot: Heel spurs, Morton's neuroma and overuse

Pain under the foot can be caused by overuse from prolonged standing or walking. Many people experience pain in the ball of the foot or pain when putting weight on the foot. Common causes include:

• Metatarsalgia (pain in the forefoot)
• Plantar fasciitis (inflammation of the tendon under the foot)
• Morton's neuroma (nerve compression between the toes)
• Stress fractures
• Flat feet
• Incorrect foot position or walking technique

The risk of pain increases when the arch of the foot, tendons and ligaments are overstressed. This can cause stiffness and inflammation of the fascia (the thick tissue under the foot). People who stand a lot or exercise intensely can often experience pain on the inside of the foot or in the ball of the foot. A common condition behind this type of pain is heel spurs .

Symptoms of pain in the ball of the foot, forefoot and heel

Common symptoms include:

• Pain in the ball of the foot, especially with weight bearing
• Burning sensation in the forefoot
• Soreness and swelling under the foot
• Tingling or numbness
• Worsening pain when walking or running
• Sudden pain under the foot

Many people experience pain under the foot when they walk, especially in the ball of the foot. Symptoms can vary depending on the cause, but often people experience pain when putting weight on the foot. The nerves in the foot can also be affected, causing pain or numbness – often related to Morton's neuroma .

Diagnosis and treatment of pain under the foot

Pain under the foot is a common problem that is often caused by overuse, incorrect footwear, or reduced shock absorption.

The discomfort can be felt in the heel, arch, or forefoot and worsens when walking, running, or standing for long periods of time.

A correct diagnosis helps to determine the cause and choose the right treatment – from rest to the use of shock-absorbing insoles.

Physical examination

During an initial examination, a physiotherapist or doctor assesses the structure, swelling, and strain on the foot.

Treatment: Rest and relief to reduce inflammation and pain.

Advantage: Reduces stress on the foot and promotes recovery.

X-ray or MRI

Used to rule out injuries such as heel spurs, stress fractures, or tendonitis.

Treatment: Anti-inflammatory medication or targeted rest.

Advantage: Improves shock absorption and reduces pain during stress.

Ultrasound

Provides a clear image of soft tissues and tendons, which helps in the diagnosis of plantar fasciitis or tendon overload.

Treatment: Physical therapy and exercises to strengthen the muscles of the foot and increase mobility.

Advantage: Provides increased comfort and stability when walking and running.

Gait analysis

By analyzing how you walk, healthcare providers can detect misalignments such as overpronation or flat feet.

Treatment: Orthopedic insoles or shock-absorbing soles that distribute pressure evenly under the foot.

Benefit: Helps reduce pain and prevent future injuries.

The right support for recovery

To relieve pressure on the foot, specialists may recommend shock-absorbing soles or orthopedic insoles that provide extra support and even out the load.

By choosing the right foot support, you can often relieve pain caused by overload, improve posture, and reduce pressure when walking.

Conclusion: This is how to treat pain under the foot

Foot pain can have many different causes and can significantly impact daily life. By identifying the cause and using appropriate treatment methods, including supportive devices such as shock-absorbing insoles, many people can effectively manage their symptoms and improve foot function. It is important to consult a doctor or podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and individualized treatment plan. Related problems such as foot overuse can sometimes also be the underlying cause.