4 Types Of Foot Pain Explained

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Pain is never an enjoyable experience anywhere in the body, but foot pain can be especially debilitating. Despite the fact that most people spend much of their day seated, foot pain can easily disrupt an otherwise excellent day at work, or even ruin what should've been a relaxing day off. Here you will learn about four different types of foot pain and what you might do about them.

1. Sharp pain on the sole near the heel

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia tissue on the heel-side of your sole is inflamed. Overuse of the plantar fascia is the cause of the condition, and is often suffered by those who wear high heels or any other type of unsupportive shoe for too long. Resting the foot is often sufficient for easing the pain.

2. Sharp pain followed by aching in the heel

These symptoms are often associated with bone spurs, which is an area of extra bone growth. Bone spurs often happen when a small area of the foot frequently suffers friction. Wearing shoes that are either too loose or too tight will cause repeated friction against the back of your heel. While bone spurs are not easily removed, you can exercise your calf muscles to help them get stronger. More of the friction and stress from walking is then diverted from the heels to your stronger leg muscles.

3. Burning pain in the ball of the foot

Your pain is probably caused by metatarsalgia, which is when the metatarsals, or the bones near the middle of your foot, suffer repeated strain from overuse. Runners often experience this condition; particularly barefoot runners whose feet have not become strong enough for such strain. Metatarsalgia will heal on its own, but you will need to avoid putting much pressure on the painful area.

4. Shooting pain in the ball of the foot

This pain may be caused by a neuroma, which is the swelling of the nerves around your metatarsals. Generally, this type of pain results from many types of overuse, but is particularly common among those that wear high heels. The shoe's excess pressure on the toe joints can easily agitate the delicate nerves in the area. If the pain is severe, you should see your foot doctor for a cortisone injection, which will effectively reduce the swelling in your foot.

Each of the pains described above can be treated and prevented. By making the right changes to your footwear and your lifestyle, you have a chance of never having to deal with the pain again. With your foot pain gone, you can get on with your life without such debilitating hindrances.


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