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Normal foot X-ray
Normal foot X-ray
Leg skeletal anatomy
Leg skeletal anatomy


Foot pain

Definition:

Pain or discomfort can be felt anywhere in the foot, including the heel, toes, arch, instep, sole, or ankles. See also ankle pain and heel pain.



Alternative Names:
Pain - foot

Common Causes:

Foot pain can be caused by:

  • Bunions -- a protrusion at the base of the big toe, which can become inflamed. Bunions often develop over time from wearing narrow-toed shoes.
  • Hammer toes -- toes that curl downward into a claw-like position.
  • Calluses and corns -- thickened skin from friction or pressure. Calluses are on the balls of the feet or heels. Corns appear on your toes.
  • Plantar warts -- from pressure on the soles of your feet.
  • Fallen arches -- also called flat feet.

Ill-fitting shoes often cause these problems. Aging and being overweight also increase your chances of having foot problems.

Morton's neuroma, caused by two bones on the sole of your foot rubbing together, leads to a sharp or burning pain in the ball of your foot (and sometimes toes). It is less common, but can be related to wearing tight-fitting shoes.

Other common causes of foot pain include:



References:

Kay D. Morton's neuroma. Foot Ankle Clin. 2003; 8(1): 49-59.

American College of Radiology (ACR), Expert Panel on Musculoskeletal Imaging. Chronic foot pain. Reston, VA: American College of Radiology; 2002.




Review Date: 10/20/2005
Reviewed By: Kevin B. Freedman, MD, MSCE, Sports Medicine, Orthopaedic Specialists, Bryn Mawr, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

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