5 common reasons for foot and ankle pain

Foot and ankle pain can happen to anyone, from athletes to someone who spends a lot of time on their feet. Understanding the causes and knowing how to manage the discomfort is essential for maintaining mobility and overall well-being.

Here are five common reasons for foot or ankle pain:

1. Overuse

As the leading cause of foot pain, overuse injuries are particularly common for those who engage in sports, stand for long periods of time or wear poorly fitting shoes. Overuse can lead to conditions where the tissues in the foot become inflamed, such as plantar fasciitis or tendonitis.

It’s crucial to stretch your calves and feet regularly. Gentle stretches help maintain flexibility and reduce the risk of injury.

For immediate relief, apply ice packs or roll your foot over a frozen water bottle to help reduce inflammation. Consider wearing low-grade compression stockings to improve circulation and minimize discomfort if you will be standing for a while.

2. Bunions and hammertoes

Structural deformities, like bunions and hammertoes, can also be a source of chronic foot pain. These conditions occur when the bones in the foot become misaligned, leading to pain and discomfort.

“Bunions can negatively impact quality of life,” says Dr. Michael Iossi, an orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon at Aurora Health Care. “Symptom relief may be as simple as shoe modifications.”

If simple measures don’t alleviate discomfort, it’s important to consult a doctor about advanced options, such as custom orthotics (braces) or surgical interventions.

“Knowing when to intervene surgically can be a difficult decision for patients,” Dr. Iossi says. “Your surgeon can counsel you on the best options as well as explain the cutting-edge techniques for bunion correction.”

3. Fractures and sprains

Acute injuries, such as fractures or sprains, are another common cause of foot and ankle pain. These injuries often result from accidents or high-impact activities.

The severity of the injury will dictate the appropriate treatment. For minor injuries, the RICE protocol (rest, ice, compression, elevation) is effective in managing pain and swelling.

“Traumatic foot and ankle injuries can be life changing,” Dr. Iossi says. “Your surgeon can offer timely evaluation and treatment of your injury to provide the best possible outcome.”

4. Inadequate footwear

Wearing shoes that don’t provide proper support is a significant contributor to foot pain. Shoes that lack arch support, cushioning or a wide toe box can lead to various foot problems. The shoes should also be sturdy and not easily twist or bend.

5. Diabetes, vascular disease and fungal infections

Systemic conditions, such as diabetes, vascular disease and fungal infections, can lead to chronic foot pain and other complications.

“You should perform daily foot inspections if you have a systemic condition,” explains Dr. Gregory Caronis, an orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon at Advocate Health Care. “During the inspection, look for cuts, callouses and blisters.”

To prevent skin breakdown, keep your feet clean and moisturized. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise and weight management can also help prevent complications.

Persistent pain, redness, swelling or wounds that don’t heal should prompt a visit to the doctor.

“Life is too short to struggle with chronic, nagging foot and ankle pain that makes each step a burden,” Dr. Caronis says. “Consider your treatment options and take action to put some spring in your step. Your doctor is there to help you.”

Find an orthopedic and foot & ankle specialist: Illinois | Wisconsin