Foot sole pain is a common complaint. Plantar fasciitis, heel spur and metatarsalgia are the most common causes.
In this article
Key takeaways
- Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause
- Morning pain is typical of fasciitis
- Inadequate footwear worsens symptoms
- Physiotherapy and stretches are key
- Custom insoles relieve significantly
Common causes
- Plantar fasciitis
- Heel spur
- Metatarsalgia
- Morton's neuroma
- Sports overload
- Flat or cavus foot
Characteristic symptoms
Sharp pain on first morning step (fasciitis), heel pain (spur), front of foot pain (metatarsalgia), tingling between toes (Morton).
Treatment
- Relative rest and local cold
- Daily calf and fascia stretches
- Custom insoles
- Footwear with adequate support
- Anti-inflammatories and, if needed, injections
- Physiotherapy
Prevention
Weight loss if needed, proper footwear, avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces, alternate footwear types, warm up before sport.
When to see a podiatrist
- Pain lasting >2 weeks
- Limp or difficulty walking
- Swelling or foot wounds
- Worsens with every step
- Doesn't respond to home treatment
Do you have foot sole pain?
The podiatry team at Clínica Eupnea offers diagnosis, treatment and custom insoles.
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