Foot Health Causes of Foot Pain and Treatment Options Everything you need to know about foot pain By Catherine Moyer, DPM Catherine Moyer, DPM, is a podiatrist experienced in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders of the foot and ankle. Learn about our editorial process Catherine Moyer, DPM Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Grant Hughes, MD on April 06, 2019 linkedin Grant Hughes, MD, is a board-certified rheumatologist. He is an associate professor at the University of Washington School of Medicine and the head of rheumatology at Seattle’s Harborview Medical Center. Learn about our Medical Review Board Grant Hughes, MD Updated on August 05, 2019 Print Foot pain is a very common problem. However, the challenge with foot pain is that there are many different potential causes, making it even difficult at times for healthcare professionals to get to the root of your discomfort. Where the pain is and how it feels—throbbing, aching, stabbing, tender, and so on—can offer clues, but given all the possible causes, symptoms may not be enough to settle on a diagnosis. Below is a summary of some of the most common painful foot conditions. However, be sure to see your personal doctor or podiatrist (a doctor who specializes in foot conditions) if you are experiencing foot pain. Moreover, before embarking on any self-care strategies, be sure to speak with your doctor, especially if you have an underlying health problem like diabetes, peripheral artery disease, or neuropathy. Illustration by Alexandra Gordon, Verywell Plantar Fasciitis The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, which is irritation and inflammation of the plantar fascia—a thick band of connective tissue that spans the sole of the foot. SymptomsThe pain of plantar fasciitis is generally worse when a person first steps out of their bed in the morning, and it usually improves with movement, although a dull pain often persists. CausesExperts suspect there are certain factors that increase a person's chances of developing plantar fasciitis. These factors include: ObesityProlonged standingExcessive training, especially runningTight calf musclesImproper running footwearFlat feetVery high arches DiagnosisIn order to diagnose plantar fasciitis, your doctor will ask you questions about your foot pain, like where exactly it is located and if the pain is worse in the morning after waking up. Then, your doctor will perform a physical examination, which will include pressing on the sole of your foot while you flex it to see if he can elicit any plantar fascia tenderness. TreatmentThe treatment of plantar fasciitis involves the following simple, self-care strategies: Reducing activityApplying iceTaking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)Wearing a cushion-soled shoe with gel pad inserts or heel cupsWearing a supportive shoe, even around the house, and avoiding slippers or walking barefoot If pain persists, your doctor may consider injecting a steroid within the tender area of your foot. Surgery, which entails releasing part of the plantar fascia from its attachment to the heel bone, is rarely performed. An Overview of Plantar Fasciitis Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Tarsal tunnel syndrome refers to compression of the posterior tibial nerve—a nerve that passes through a canal (called the tarsal tunnel) inside your ankle. SymptomsWith tarsal tunnel syndrome, a person may experience shooting, burning, aching, numb, and/or tingling pain that radiates from the inside (big toe side) of the ankle into the arch and sole. The pain tends to be worse at night, and sometimes it travels up to the calf or higher. CausesAnything that leads to compression of the posterior tibial nerve can cause tarsal tunnel syndrome. For example, if you sprain your ankle, the associated swelling may irritate or squeeze the nerve. Likewise, any structural abnormality, such as a bone spur from ankle arthritis, varicose vein, or swollen ankle tendon or joint, may lead to nerve compression within the tarsal tunnel. People with flat feet are also more prone to developing tarsal tunnel syndrome. DiagnosisDiagnosis of tarsal tunnel syndrome is usually made by a medical history and physical examination. Sometimes, imaging tests are ordered to see if a structural abnormality is present in the foot. Nerve studies like electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction velocity (NCV) may also be considered. Treatment A variety of non-surgical therapies are used to treat tarsal tunnel syndrome, including: R.I.C.E. protocol (rest, ice, compression of the nerve, and elevation of the foot above the heart)Taking an NSAID, like Advil (ibuprofen) or Aleve (naproxen)Steroid injectionWearing custom shoe inserts, especially if you have flat feetWearing a brace or cast to immobilize the foot Surgery is considered if the nerve pain is severe or persistent, despite conservative therapies. An Overview of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Metatarsalgia Metatarsalgia refers to pain located in the area of the ball of the foot. This condition develops as a result of the loss of support provided by the ligaments that connect the metatarsal bones, the five bones that make up your forefoot. SymptomsThe sharp pain of metatarsalgia is felt on the bottom of the ball of the foot. Sometimes the pain is felt near where the toes connect to the foot. The pain, which may equated to stepping on a stone, is usually eased by sitting down and worsened by walking barefoot. CausesMany different conditions can make a person more vulnerable to developing metatarsalgia—most often, abnormal foot mechanics, overuse, or wearing shoes with limited cushioning. Older people, overweight individuals, and runners may also be at an increased risk for developing metatarsalgia. DiagnosisDiagnosis of metatarsalgia is made by a medical history and physical exam. Imaging tests are only utilized if other diagnoses are being considered, such as a bone fracture, tumor, or cyst. TreatmentWearing metatarsal pads is the primary treatment for metatarsalgia. Surgery may be considered if other treatments don't provide relief. Metatarsophalangeal Joint Disorders Morton's Neuroma Another common nerve problem within the foot is Morton's neuroma, which causes a sharp or burning pain in the ball of the foot. Many people describe an uncomfortable sensation that's akin to walking on a marble or pebble. While a neuroma is technically a benign (non-cancerous) tumor of a nerve, Morton's neuroma more accurately refers to a thickening of the tissue that surrounds one of the small nerves between the toes (called an interdigital nerve). SymptomsBesides a shooting or burning pain in the ball of the foot that may spread between two toes (most commonly, between the third and fourth toes), numbness may occur, as well as pain that worsens with activity or when wearing shoes. CausesWhile the cause of Morton's neuroma has not been fully teased out, experts suspect that certain factors, like wearing tight, narrow shoes (for example, high heels) or having flat feet, lead to increased pressure and subsequent injury to the tissue surrounding an interdigital nerve. DiagnosisBesides a medical history and physical exam, ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are sometimes used to diagnosis Morton's neuroma. TreatmentProper shoe inserts that decrease pressure on the toe bones may ease the pain of Morton's neuroma. A roomier and broad-toed shoe that allows the toes to spread out may also be helpful. Sometimes, if pain persists, your doctor may inject a steroid into the affected area. The final step—if the above simple methods do not provide relief—is surgery. Surgery involves removing a small portion of the affected nerve or releasing the tissue surrounding the nerve. An Overview of Morton's Neuroma Achilles Tendonitis Tendons are the cord-like structures that anchor muscles to bone. When they are over-stretched or over-used, tendonitis can occur. Achilles tendonitis refers to irritation or inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf and lower leg muscles to the heel bone of the foot. SymptomsAchilles tendonitis causes an aching or burning pain with activity or stretching, and the affected tendon is usually painful to the touch. Mild swelling, warmth, and stiffness may also occur over the tendon. Recurrent tendonitis may be a sign of tendon tearing and weakening, also known as tendinosis. CausesSeveral factors may contribute to the development of Achilles tendonitis, including: Suddenly increasing an exercise regimenTight calf musclesWearing improper footwearTraining in cold weatherFlat feetLeg length discrepancy DiagnosisA medical history and physical examination are used to diagnose Achilles tendonitis. A magnetic imaging resonance (MRI) may be ordered if your doctor suspects an Achilles tendon rupture, which occurs when there is tearing and separation of the tendon fibers. TreatmentThe treatment of Achilles tendonitis involves a combination of these at-home therapies: R.I.C.E. protocol (reduced activity or rest, ice, compressing the tendon with an elastic bandage or tape, elevating your ankle above your heart)Taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID), like ibuprofen or Aleve (naproxen) Once the acute pain is eased, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor about heel lift orthotics and physical therapy. The Alfredson Protocol, a specialized exercise program, may be recommended. Surgical repair is reserved for an Achilles tendon rupture. An Overview of Achilles Tendonitis Osteoarthritis Osteoarthritis is the breakdown of cartilage within a joint from physical wear-and-tear. The joint damage manifests as decreased joint space, worn cartilage, and bone spurs surround the joint. The pain and lack of mobility from foot osteoarthritis are often experienced at the ankle joint, the subtalar joint, and the big toe joint. SymptomsSymptoms of osteoarthritis may include pain, stiffness, a vibrating or grinding sound or sensation, and swelling, which generally worsen with exercise. CausesWith aging, the cartilage in your joint naturally wears thin and frays. Besides age, having a family history and being obese also increases your risk of developing osteoarthritis. DiagnosisA medical history and physical examination, along with an imaging test (usually an X-ray), are used to diagnose osteoarthritis of the foot. TreatmentOsteoarthritis of the foot is first managed with simple measures, such as: Lifestyle changes (e.g., weight loss if overweight or obese and choosing activities and exercises that are gentle on the feet, like swimming or cycling)Taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID)Physical therapyWearing a custom orthotic to decrease painUsing an assistive device to aid in mobility Surgery—arthroscopy or joint fusion or replacement—is considered if pain persists or daily functioning is significantly affected. An Overview of Foot Osteoarthritis Ingrown Toenails An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows or is pressed into the skin edge. It usually occurs at the edge of the big toenail as a result of shoe pressure. Even the smallest amount of ingrowing can be very painful. Symptoms Besides pain, other signs of an ingrown toenail include red or swollen skin adjacent to the nail. The ingrown piece of nail is often unseen because it is buried beneath the skin. Causes Some factors that increase a person's chance for developing an ingrown toenail include: Wearing poorly fitted shoesExcessively trimming the lateral edge of your toenailExperiencing some sort of trauma to the toenail Diagnosis A physical exam—simply inspecting the affected area—is all that is needed to diagnose an ingrown toenail. Treatment Treatment of an ingrown toenail depends on the severity of the condition. For ingrown toenails associated with minimal to mild pain, redness, and no discharge, warm soaks and placing a tiny piece of cotton underneath the nail may be all that is needed. After a few days of these simple measures, if the pain/redness/swelling is persisting or worsening, or if a yellow, cloudy substance ("pus") is present, it's important to see your doctor. You may require an antibiotic and/or your doctor may need to remove the ingrown nail part. An Overview of Ingrown Nails Corns and Calluses Calluses are thickened areas of skin over parts of the feet where excessive amounts of pressure or friction occur. Corns occur on the toes where they rub against the shoe. Unlike calluses, corns have a central core or spot in the middle that is surrounded by dead skin. SymptomsCalluses are larger than corns and typically not painful, unless they fissure, or split open. On the other hand, the central core of a corn is usually painful and tender to the touch. CausesImproper footwear, either shoes that are too tight or too loose, is a common culprit behind corn and callus formation. Socks that don't fit well may also contribute, as can toe deformities, like hammertoe (see below). DiagnosisVisual inspection of your foot is all that is generally needed to diagnose a corn or callus. Keep in mind, corns and calluses also look similar to warts, which may also cause discomfort. TreatmentBesides wearing proper shoes, you may consider trying these simple, home remedies: Soak your foot in warm water and once finished (15 minutes or so), use a pumice stone or callus file to remove dead skin over the corn or callusPlace a donut-shaped, non-medicated foam corn pad over the corn or callusConsider placing small bits of lamb wool (not cotton) between toes where a corn has formed. If corns or calluses continue to remain a problem, it's time to see your doctor. Your doctor may remove the dead layers of skin with a scalpel and apply a salicylic acid plaster to help dissolve the corn or callus. He may also recommend a custom foot orthotic. Getting Rid of Corns and Calluses Bunions A bunion is a knobby bump on the side of the foot that is often found just below the big toe joint (although, bunions can also occur on the pinkie toe side of the foot). Bunions can vary in size and are the result of the big toe shifting out of position over time and pressing against the second toe, which results in abnormal stress on the big toe joint and surrounding ligaments. SymptomsBunion symptoms generally progress over time as the deformity becomes more significant. Besides a sore or burning pain over the big toe joint, other bunion symptoms may include redness, swelling, and stiffness. CausesExperts believe that people with certain foot types are more prone to developing bunions, and these foot types run in families. Wearing high heels, which forces the big toe to be squeezed into the second toe, also contributes to bunion formation. DiagnosisBunions are diagnosed by a physical exam, although, sometimes an X-ray is ordered to better access the big toe joint. TreatmentBunions, if symptomatic, are often managed well with conservative therapies, such as: Applying iceFoot and toe stretchesTaking a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID)Padding the bunionWearing proper footwear If bunion symptoms are severe, persistent, or debilitating, surgery may be indicated. Types of Bunions Hammer Toe Hammertoe is a common condition that occurs in the second, third, or fourth toes. It occurs when the joint closest to where the toe becomes the foot (called the metatarsophalangeal joint) extends upward and the proximal interphalangeal joint (the next joint as you move up the toe) flexes downward. This makes the toe bent like a hammer. SymptomsPain may be felt not only at the top of the bent toe (when being pressed on), but also in the ball of the foot at the bottom of the affected toe. In addition to pain, redness, swelling, and stiffness of the affected toe joint may occur. Corns and calluses may also form on the affected toe. CausesMuscle imbalance is believed to be a key contributor to hammertoe formation. Tight shoes, especially high heels, are another prime cause. A hammer toe may also arise as a result of an underlying medical condition like arthritis. Hammertoes also tend to run in families. DiagnosisA doctor can diagnose hammertoe simply by inspecting your foot. Imaging, like an X-ray, may be ordered if your doctor suspects an underlying condition, like arthritis. TreatmentVarious self-care strategies are used to treat hammertoe, such as: Performing at-home foot and toe exercises to strengthen and stretch your toesWearing a non-medicated hammertoe padWearing a loose-fitting, soft shoe with a deep toe boxApplying ice if the hammertoe becomes inflamed (acutely painful, red, and/or swollen)Foot exercises If conservative measures fail or if a rigid hammertoe develops (which is when the toe tendons become tight, making the toe immobile), surgery may be recommended. Rigid hammertoes are seen in people with severe arthritis or chronically, neglected hammertoes. An Overview of Hammer Toe A Word From Verywell If you are enduring foot pain, it's important to see a doctor for an evaluation. Foot pain can be very disabling, and research suggests it can affect a person's mood, risk of falls, and quality of life. In the end, getting to the bottom of your discomfort is paramount—you deserve to feel well and get back to your usual activities, and with the right therapy plan, you can. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. Sign Up You're in! Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. There was an error. Please try again. What are your concerns? Other Inaccurate Hard to Understand Submit Article Sources Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Mcpoil TG, Martin RL, Cornwall MW, Wukich DK, Irrgang JJ, Godges JJ. Heel pain--plantar fasciitis: clinical practice guildelines linked to the international classification of function, disability, and health from the orthopaedic section of the American Physical Therapy Association. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2008;38(4):A1-A18. doi:10.2519/jospt.2008.0302 Cimino WR. Tarsal tunnel syndrome: review of the literature. Foot Ankle. 1990;11(1):47-52. doi: 10.1177/107110079001100110 Bailie DS, Kelikian AS. Tarsal tunnel syndrome: diagnosis, surgical technique, and functional outcome. Foot Ankle Int. 1998;19(2):65-72. doi:10.1177/107110079801900203 Espinosa N, Brodsky JW, Maceira E. Metatarsalgia. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2010;18(8):474-85. doi:10.3113/FAI.2008.0000X Charen DA, Markowitz JS, Cheung ZB, Matijakovich DJ, Chan JJ, Vulcano E. Overview of Metatarsalgia. Orthopedics. 2019;42(1):e138-e143. doi:10.3928/01477447-20181206-06 Wu KK. Morton's interdigital neuroma: a clinical review of its etiology, treatment, and results. J Foot Ankle Surg. 1996;35(2):112-9 doi:10.1016/S1067-2516(96)80027-5 Roddy E, Menz HB. Foot osteoarthritis: latest evidence and developments. Ther Adv Musculoskelet Dis. 2018;10(4):91-103. doi:10.1177/1759720X17753337 Heidelbaugh JJ, Lee H. Management of the ingrown toenail. Am Fam Physician. 2009;79(4):303-8. Singh D, Bentley G, Trevino SG. Callosities, corns, and calluses. BMJ. 1996;312(7043):1403-6. doi:10.1136/bmj.312.7043.1403a Bunions: Overview. InformedHealth.org [Internet]. Published June 28, 2018. Kenzora JE. A rationale for the surgical treatment of bunions. Orthopedics. 1988;11(5):777-89. doi:10.3928/0147-7447-19880501-15 Higgs SL. Hammer Toe. Postgrad Med J. 1931;6(68):130-2. doi:10.1136/pgmj.6.68.130 Kwon OY, Tuttle LJ, Johnson JE, Mueller MJ. Muscle imbalance and reduced ankle joint motion in people with hammer toe deformity. Clin Biomech (Bristol, Avon). 2009;24(8):670-5. doi:10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2009.05.010 Calabro JJ. A critical evaluation of the diagnostic features of the feet in rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis Rheum. 1962;5:19-29. doi:10.1002/art.1780050104 Additional Reading American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. (n.d.) Corns. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/corns/ American Podiatric Medical Association. (n.d.). Hammer Toes. https://www.apma.org/Patients/FootHealth.cfm?ItemNumber=1863 Buchbinder R. (2018). Patient education: Heel and foot pain (caused by plantar fasciitis) (Beyond the Basics). In: UpToDate, Isaac Z (Ed), UpToDate, Waltham, MA. Fields KB. (November 2016). Evaluation and diagnosis of common causes of foot pain in adults. In: UpToDate, Eiff P (Ed), UpToDate, Waltham, MA. American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. (March 2015). Arthritis of the Foot and Ankle.