Ankle Pain Without Injury: Women’s feet endure a lot—between fashion choices and structural differences, they are more prone to certain foot and ankle problems than men. Years of walking in narrow, ill-fitting shoes and high heels that stress the forefoot contribute to a variety of painful issues. Here’s a closer look at some of the most common foot conditions affecting women:
1. Morton’s Neuroma
Morton’s Neuroma is a painful condition caused by the thickening of nerve tissue in the ball of the foot. It often results from prolonged compression and irritation of the nerves, commonly linked to wearing high-heeled shoes or footwear with a narrow, tapered toe box. These types of shoes squeeze the toes together, increasing pressure on the forefoot.
2. Bunions
Bunions begin with a gradual leaning of the big toe toward the second toe, which alters the alignment of the bones and eventually creates a noticeable bump. While bunions can occur in both men and women, they are more commonly seen in women—largely due to shoes that worsen the condition by forcing the toes into unnatural positions. Genetics also play a role, as bunions often stem from inherited faulty foot structures.
3. Heel Pain & Plantar Fasciitis
Heel pain in women is frequently caused by plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. This condition is usually related to poor foot mechanics, but can also result from wearing unsupportive shoes like flip-flops or ballet flats. These types of shoes fail to provide the arch support necessary for foot health, leading to chronic heel pain over time.
4. Ankle Sprains
Although ankle sprains can happen to anyone, women are at higher risk—particularly when wearing high heels or platform shoes. These types of footwear make ankles unstable and more susceptible to rolling, especially on uneven or slippery surfaces. Even a minor misstep can lead to a painful sprain.
Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs
If you’re experiencing foot or ankle pain, don’t wait for it to get worse. Early evaluation and treatment by a foot and ankle specialist can prevent long-term damage and help you get back to feeling your best.
