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Foot Pain? Why It Happens and How to Find Relief
15 Dec
Summary
- Up to 81% of people experience foot pain, impacting daily life.
- Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of bottom-of-foot pain.
- Supportive footwear and early treatment are crucial for relief.
Foot pain is a prevalent issue, impacting as many as 81% of individuals and potentially hindering everyday activities, exercise, and work. This discomfort can stem from localized problems like plantar fasciitis or metatarsalgia, or it may indicate underlying systemic conditions such as diabetes or arthritis.
The complex structure of the foot, housing nerves, ligaments, and tendons, makes it susceptible to various issues. Plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the band supporting the arch, is a common culprit, causing sharp heel or arch pain. Structural differences in feet, nerve compression, and even skin conditions like corns can also contribute to bottom-of-foot pain.
Effective relief often begins with simple, conservative measures, including wearing highly supportive shoes and using orthotics if necessary. Resting painful areas, applying ice, and performing calf and plantar fascia stretches can also provide significant benefit. For persistent pain, medical evaluation may lead to physical therapy, injections, or, in rare cases, surgery.
