Foot Pain

Sprains and strains occur frequently and are often confused with one another! A sprain happens when a ligament is overstretched or torn, whereas a strain occurs when a muscle or tendon is overstretched.

These types of injuries are typically the result of stepping awkwardly or landing funny. In both cases, these injuries should be evaluated by a physical therapist to ensure quick resolution and no long-term damage occurs.

Any problem with a tendon, including disease, injury, or disorder, is known as tendinopathy. Tendinitis is one such problem that occurs when the tendons become inflamed, resulting in swelling and pain, especially with movement of the affected area.

Tendinitis is often known as an overuse injury or a repetitive stress injury.

The long tissue at the bottom of your feet connecting the heel bone to the toes is known as the plantar fascia. Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition involving the bottom, inner aspect of the heel that is worse following periods of non-weight bearing (i.e., the morning after sleeping, after prolonged sitting).

Although the name suggests inflammation is present, recent research has demonstrated that the plantar fascia is not inflamed but degenerating tissue.

Neuropathy refers to a diseased state of nerves typically associated with diabetes, medication toxicity (i.e., chemotherapy), or circulation issues like peripheral vascular disease.

Neuropathy negatively affects the sensation in your feet and can be especially problematic when cuts or injuries are not noticed. Sensation changes can also make you more susceptible to balance issues and falls.

Arthritis is a common condition that affects joints and causes inflammation and foot pain. Arthritis can affect people of all ages but is typically worse with age.

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the most common types. Both types of arthritis cause damage to the cartilage and, over time, can limit your range of motion and function. Both conditions can have a significant impact on the foot joints.

A fracture occurs when the bone is subjected to excessive force or trauma, causing it to crack or break completely. In some situations, excessive force is due to overuse and the result of repetitive stresses like when running long distances.

A foot fracture could necessitate weeks of rest and, in some cases, a cast or walking boot to ensure proper healing.

Bursae are closed, fluid-filled sacs that cushion and help create a smooth gliding surface to reduce friction between body tissues. These sacs of fluid protect tendons from the bone.

An injury or overuse can cause inflammation in the bursae (aka Bursitis) which prevents tendons from smoothly gliding over the joint and can be painful or even debilitating. This condition commonly affects your foot and heel.

Several tendons work together with the bones and joints of your foot to form the arches in your foot. When the tendons pull together correctly and your joints are stable, your foot will create a proper arch.

Your foot will form a minimal arch or no arch at all if the tendons do not pull together properly. The condition known as a “fallen arch” or “flat foot” occurs when the joints and muscles cannot stabilize and support the arch. This condition is often associated with foot pain or pain in the shin and knee regions due to alteration in gait caused by this condition.

The tarsal tunnel is the groove where the nerve that runs from the lower leg through the ankle to the foot travels. If the nerve is irritated or becomes pinched, pain and inflammation ensue.

This condition can become debilitating due to sharp, shooting pains, “pins and needles,” or burning sensations in the feet. Fortunately, physical therapy has been shown to aid in the relief of acute and chronic pain.