Causes of Pain in 5 Different Parts of the Foot
Anyone who experiences foot pain understands the feeling of wanting relief. But not all foot pain is the same—it often depends on where the discomfort occurs. Understanding the causes of pain in different parts of the foot can help you identify the issue early and seek the right treatment.
Below, Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists has outlined five common foot pain locations and what might be causing them.
1. Heel Pain
The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, which results from inflammation of the tissue band (plantar fascia) connecting your heel bone to your toes. Pain is usually worse in the morning or after long periods of rest.
Other possible causes:
- Achilles tendonitis
- Heel spurs
- Bursitis
2. Arch Pain
Arch pain is often linked to overuse,flat feet, or high arches. Conditions like plantar fasciitis or posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) are common culprits.
Wearing unsupportive shoes or standing for long periods can make arch pain worse.
3. Ball of Foot Pain
Pain in the ball of the foot is usually due to metatarsalgia—inflammation of the metatarsal bones. It often results from high-impact activities, wearing high heels, or shoes that don’t fit properly.
Other causes include:
- Morton’s neuroma (nerve irritation between toes)
- Sesamoiditis (inflammation near the big toe)
4. Toe Pain
Toe pain can be caused by gout, arthritis, bunions, or hammertoes. Ingrown toenails and corns are also frequent sources of toe pain, especially in tight or narrow shoes.
Big toe pain specifically may indicate gout or bunion formation.
5. Outer Edge Foot Pain
Pain along the outer side of the foot (lateral foot pain) could be caused by:
- Stress fractures
- Peroneal tendonitis
- Cuboid syndrome
These conditions often result from ankle injuries, repetitive strain, or improper footwear.
Paying attention to where and when your foot pain occurs can help you identify the problem faster. For more foot care advice, come see the expert team at Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists. With locations in Tucson and Oro Valley areas of Pima County, Arizona, Bradley A. Whitaker, D.P.M., FACFAS, Peter C. Merrill, D.P.M., AACFAS, and Zeno Pfau, D.P.M., are here for you. Call us at (520) 575-0800 or contact us online!
