It isn’t uncommon to experience foot pain from time to time. From walking a lot to working out, feet can easily get sore. But some foot pain shouldn’t be ignored and could be a sign of more severe issues. Always meet with a podiatrist and a foot and ankle doctor in Scottsdale to learn more about your foot pain and its severity.

1. Stress Fracture

Have you been inactive for a while, then try a high-impact activity? This can cause a stress fracture that will gradually worsen over time if not treated. Symptoms include sharp pain in the foot, swelling of the foot, and tenderness. You may not even know you have a stress fracture, but eventually, you will start to feel the pain as time goes on. In fact, an x-ray may not even show a stress fracture at first. 

Start by limiting your activity and wearing a protective boot. Follow up with your doctor in a few weeks to confirm the diagnosis so that you get on the road to treatment.

2. Heel Pain

Unfortunately, many issues can cause heel pain. The most common is when the plantar fascia ligament becomes inflamed leading to plantar fasciitis. This is usually caused by an injury that has not been treated and the overuse of the injured foot.  Plantar fasciitis starts with pain in the sole of the foot and an overall stabbing sensation in the foot. It can be triggered if you start a high-impact activity after a lot of rest. Also, standing for long periods can be a trigger. 

To treat this, start by doing plenty of stretching. Then, focus on your arch’s support when walking and running, and avoid weight gain.

3. Mortons Neuroma

Morton’s neuroma is when tissues around the nerve in the foot enlarge and swell. You usually know when you are suffering from this because the ball of the foot is painful. It may even feel like you are constantly stepping on marbles. An MRI will confirm your diagnosis and the amount of swelling is going to be a sign of how severe it is. 

Wearing special padding and inserts in your shoes can help, but you might need surgical removal. Start by stretching and wearing appropriate shoes when working out or when you are on your feet a lot.