“Doctor, Why Do My Feet Hurt So Much?” – Let’s Talk About Foot Pain
By Dr. Milind A.Lokhande, [MBBS,MS Ortho], Joint Replacement and trauma surgeon
“Doctor, I didn’t even go running yesterday, but my feet are killing me. Is it age? Or am I doing something wrong?”
This is a question I hear in my orthopedic clinic almost every day—and if you’re reading this, you’re probably dealing with persistent foot pain yourself. Whether it’s a stabbing pain near your heel when you step out of bed or a dull ache in your arches after a long day, foot pain isn’t something to ignore.
Let’s break it down together.
The Foundation of Your Body
Your feet aren’t just for walking—they’re your body’s foundation. Each foot has 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. With every step, your feet absorb shock and help balance your entire body.
So when something goes wrong down there, your knees, hips, and even spine can feel the ripple effect.
Common Causes of Foot Pain (And What They Mean)
Here are some of the most common causes we orthopedic doctors see:
- Plantar Fasciitis
If your heel pain is worst when you take your first step in the morning, this might be it. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that supports your arch. Microtears from overuse or bad footwear lead to inflammation.
- Flat Feet or High Arches
Both conditions can cause stress on your feet and ankles. Flat feet often lead to overpronation (rolling inward), while high arches may lead to underpronation, stressing the outer foot.
- Wrong Footwear
Yes, your shoes matter—a lot. Wearing shoes with poor arch support, improper cushioning, or a tight fit can worsen foot pain. Flip-flops, high heels, and worn-out sneakers are common culprits.
- Metatarsalgia
This causes pain in the ball of your foot. It often comes from high-impact activities, tight footwear, or conditions like arthritis.
- Nerve Issues like Neuropathy or Morton’s Neuroma
Burning, tingling, or numbness in the feet? It might not be just “poor circulation.” Nerve compression or damage can cause long-term discomfort if not addressed.
How to Manage and Prevent Foot Pain
Here’s what I tell my patients:
✅ Choose the Right Footwear
- Look for arch support, wide toe boxes, and cushioned soles.
- Avoid walking barefoot on hard floors for long durations.
- Consider custom orthotic insoles if you have alignment issues.
✅ Stretch and Strengthen
Stretching your calf muscles, toes, and plantar fascia daily helps prevent stiffness. Strengthening exercises for foot muscles can also help with balance and pain relief.
✅ Use Ice and Elevation
For acute inflammation, ice therapy and foot elevation can reduce pain and swelling.
✅ Don’t Ignore Persistent Pain
If the pain lingers beyond two weeks, especially if it worsens, visit your orthopedic doctor. Imaging like X-rays or MRIs may be needed to rule out stress fractures or joint issues.
When to See a Specialist
If your foot pain:
- Interferes with walking or daily activities
- Is accompanied by swelling, redness, or tingling
- Has no improvement despite rest and care
…it’s time to consult an orthopedic doctor for foot pain.
Final Word from the Ortho Chair
Your feet do a lot for you—carry you around, balance your body, and absorb daily impact. Treat them well. Don’t normalize foot pain as a part of aging or daily stress. Often, early intervention can prevent years of chronic discomfort.
Remember, good feet mean a better life.
Need help with persistent foot pain?
Schedule an appointment today with an orthopedic specialist to find the right solution tailored for you.
