Why Do Your Feet Ache? Common Causes of Foot Pain

Published January 29, 2026

Are you experiencing achy feet? Foot pain is a common problem that can affect people of all ages and activity levels. Because your feet support the entire weight of your body and absorb repeated impact with walking, running, and standing, even minor issues can lead to achy feet and discomfort. In some cases, foot pain is temporary and improves with rest. Other times, it may be a sign of an underlying condition that needs medical care. Let's explore some of the most common causes of foot pain, what symptoms to watch for, and when it may be time to see an orthopaedic specialist.

foot pain

Key Takeaways:

  • Foot pain can develop from overuse, injury, structural issues, or underlying medical conditions

  • Common causes include plantar fasciitis, arthritis, tendon injuries, stress fractures, and nerve irritation

  • Persistent or worsening foot pain should be evaluated by an orthopaedic specialist

  • Early diagnosis can help prevent symptoms from becoming more severe and harder to treat

Why is foot pain so common?

Each foot contains 26 bones, more than 30 joints, and a network of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. These structures work together to provide balance, movement, and stability. When one part is injured or placed under repeated stress, pain can develop quickly.

Foot pain may result from:

  • Overuse or repetitive stress

  • Improper or unsupportive footwear

  • Structural problems in the foot or ankle

  • Injury or trauma

  • Medical conditions that affect joints, nerves, or circulation

Understanding the cause of foot pain is an important first step toward choosing the most effective treatment.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel and bottom-of-the-foot pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes irritated or inflamed.

Common symptoms:

  • Sharp pain near the heel

  • Pain that is worse with the first steps in the morning

  • Discomfort after long periods of standing or walking

Plantar fasciitis is often linked to overuse, tight calf muscles, high-impact activities, or shoes that lack proper support. According to an article published by the National Library of Medicine, that plantar fasciitis is a frequent cause of heel pain in adults.

Arthritis in the Foot and Ankle

Arthritis can affect any joint in the foot or ankle, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. The most common types include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis.

Signs of arthritis-related foot pain:

  • Joint stiffness, especially in the morning

  • Swelling around the joints

  • Pain that worsens with activity

  • Reduced range of motion

Arthritis-related foot pain often develops gradually and may become more noticeable over time. Early evaluation can help manage symptoms and maintain joint function.

Achilles Tendinitis

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. When this tendon becomes irritated due to overuse or a sudden increase in activity, it can lead to Achilles tendinitis.

Symptoms may include:

  • Pain or stiffness along the back of the heel

  • Discomfort during walking or running

  • Tenderness or thickening of the tendon

Achilles tendinitis is common in runners and active individuals, especially when activity levels increase too quickly or footwear does not provide adequate support.

Stress Fractures

Stress fractures are small cracks in the bone caused by repetitive force rather than a single injury. They often occur in the bones of the foot and lower leg.

Warning signs:

  • Pain that develops gradually

  • Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest

  • Swelling or tenderness in a specific area

Stress fractures are more common in athletes, people who stand for long periods, and individuals with bone density concerns. Continuing activity without treatment can worsen bone stress injuries.

Bunions and Structural Issues

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe. It develops when the big toe shifts toward the smaller toes, often due to genetics, foot structure, or prolonged pressure from narrow shoes.

Other structural issues, such as flat feet or high arches, can also change how weight is distributed across the foot, leading to pain in the heel, arch, or forefoot.

Common symptoms:

  • A visible bump near the big toe joint

  • Pain or soreness when wearing shoes

  • Swelling or redness around the joint

Nerve-Related Foot Pain

Nerve compression or irritation can cause burning, tingling, or numbness in the foot. One example is Morton’s neuroma, which affects the nerve between the toes. Another example is diabetic neuropathy, which is nerve damage caused by long-term high blood sugar levels.

Symptoms may include:

  • Sharp or burning pain in the ball of the foot

  • Tingling or numbness in the toes

  • A sensation similar to standing on a pebble

Nerve-related foot pain often worsens with tight shoes or prolonged standing.

When to See an Orthopaedic Specialist

Occasional foot soreness may improve with rest, ice, and supportive footwear. However, medical evaluation is recommended if:

  • Pain lasts more than a few weeks

  • Pain interferes with daily activities or mobility

  • Swelling, redness, or warmth develops

  • You experience numbness, tingling, or weakness

  • Pain follows an injury or fall

An orthopaedic specialist, specifically a podiatrist, can evaluate the foot and ankle, identify the cause of pain, and recommend appropriate treatment options.

How Foot Pain Is Treated

Treatment for foot pain depends on the underlying cause, the severity of symptoms, and how long the pain has been present. In many cases, conservative care is effective, especially when treatment begins early.

Non-surgical treatment options

Most foot and ankle conditions can be treated without surgery. Common non-surgical approaches include:

  • Activity modification: Reducing or adjusting activities that place stress on the foot to allow healing

  • Physical therapy: Exercises to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and foot mechanics

  • Supportive footwear: Shoes with proper cushioning, arch support, and stability

  • Orthotics: Custom orthotics or over-the-counter inserts that help redistribute pressure and improve alignment

  • Anti-inflammatory medications: Used when appropriate to reduce pain and swelling

  • Injections: In certain cases, injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation and relieve pain

Evaluation and Treatment

If symptoms do not improve with conservative care, additional evaluation may be needed. Imaging studies such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI can help identify stress fractures, tendon injuries, joint damage, or nerve compression.

In more severe or persistent cases, surgical treatment may be considered to correct structural problems or repair damaged tissue. An orthopaedic specialist can help determine whether surgery is appropriate and discuss expected outcomes.

Find a Foot and Ankle Specialist

The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics provides comprehensive evaluation, treatment, and urgent care for a wide range of foot and ankle conditions. Orthopedic specialists at CAO care for patients throughout Washington, D.C., Northern Virginia, and Maryland, developing individualized treatment plans focused on relieving pain and restoring function.

If foot pain is limiting your ability to walk, work, or stay active, an orthopaedic evaluation can help clarify the cause and guide next steps. Patients can request an appointment with CAO to receive expert foot and ankle care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Foot Pain

What is the most common cause of foot pain?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of foot pain, especially heel pain. Other frequent causes include arthritis, tendon injuries, stress fractures, and nerve irritation. A thorough evaluation by a CAO foot and ankle specialist can help determine the exact source of pain.

When should I be concerned about foot pain?
Foot pain should be evaluated if it lasts longer than a few weeks, worsens over time, or interferes with daily activities. Pain that occurs with swelling, numbness, or difficulty walking should also be assessed by an orthopedic specialist.

Can foot pain go away on its own?
Mild foot pain may improve with rest, activity modification, and supportive footwear. However, persistent or recurring foot pain often requires medical evaluation to identify the underlying cause and reduce the risk of further injury.

Do I need surgery for foot pain?
Most foot pain can be treated successfully with non-surgical options such as physical therapy, orthotics, or medication. Surgery is typically considered only when conservative treatments do not provide relief or when a significant structural problem is present.

Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Foot pain can have many causes, and treatment options vary based on individual conditions. Always consult a qualified orthopedic or foot and ankle specialist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.