5 Common Causes of Chronic Foot Pain

Many people ignore foot pain until it becomes a daily issue. If your feet hurt all the time, it can affect how you move, work, exercise, and enjoy your day. Chronic foot pain is not something you have to live with, and it often signals a problem that your provider can treat.

Eric Gilbertson, DPM, FACFAS, at Renew Foot & Ankle in Minnesota, helps patients understand the cause of their foot pain and guides how to manage it.

Let’s look at five of the most common causes of ongoing foot pain and what you can expect if you're dealing with one of them.

1. Plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the leading causes of chronic pain in the bottom of the foot, particularly near the heel. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes. It supports your arch and helps absorb shock when you walk or run.

When that tissue becomes inflamed or irritated, it causes a sharp or stabbing pain, most often in the morning or after prolonged periods of sitting. The pain might lessen as you start moving, but it usually returns with extended activity.

The condition often affects individuals with flat feet or very high arches. It also appears more frequently in individuals who spend a significant amount of time on hard surfaces without adequate foot support.

2. Arthritis

Arthritis is another major source of chronic foot pain. It can affect the joints in your toes, midfoot, and ankles. Osteoarthritis is the most common form and develops slowly over time as cartilage wears down. Rheumatoid arthritis can also affect the feet, causing joint inflammation, stiffness, and swelling.

You may experience a dull ache or sharp pain that intensifies after walking or standing for extended periods. Morning stiffness is also common, especially as the condition progresses.

Arthritis can alter the way your joints move and may even result in visible changes to your feet. The sooner you start managing it, the better your chances of reducing long-term damage.

3. Nerve-related pain

Foot pain that feels like tingling, burning, or shooting may be caused by a nerve issue rather than a muscle or joint problem. Peripheral neuropathy happens when nerves become damaged, and it commonly affects people with diabetes. Other causes include injuries, certain medications, or underlying conditions.

Another example is tarsal tunnel syndrome. The condition occurs when a nerve running along the inside of your ankle becomes compressed. It can create pain, numbness, or a pins-and-needles sensation in the bottom of the foot or the toes.

Nerve pain often worsens at night and can interfere with sleep or balance. It usually feels different from the discomfort caused by overuse or strain.

4. Stress fractures

Unlike a clean break, stress fractures are small cracks in the bone that develop over time. They usually result from repetitive impact, such as running, jumping, or prolonged standing without sufficient rest.

Initially, the pain may seem mild and easy to overlook. But as the crack deepens, it becomes more intense and can make walking difficult. Many people notice swelling or tenderness in a specific area of the foot.

The injury needs proper rest and care. If you push through the pain, the fracture can worsen and lead to more serious complications.

5. Structural issues and deformities

Sometimes, chronic foot pain stems from the shape or alignment of your feet. Bunions are a common example. They form when the joint at the base of the big toe becomes enlarged and shifts outward. Over time, this creates pressure and discomfort, particularly during walking or when wearing shoes.

Other structural problems, such as flat feet or high arches, can lead to poor weight distribution. It places extra strain on specific muscles and joints, which eventually leads to persistent pain.

Supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and physical therapy can help correct these issues. In some cases, surgery may be an option.

Taking the next step

Your feet carry you through life. If they hurt every day, there is a reason, and there is help available. Whether the issue is related to inflammation, nerves, injury, or alignment, your provider can guide you toward lasting relief.

Call the office or schedule an appointment online with Dr. Gilbertson to find relief from foot pain.