Foot pain is one of the most common reasons to see a podiatrist, since it can affect your daily activities, mobility, and life as a whole. At Kettle Moraine Podiatry in Cedarburg, Wisconsin, podiatrist Allyson Otten, DPM, offers comprehensive evaluations and personalized care for a wide range of foot conditions that can cause foot pain. Because your feet absorb significant pressure every day, even minor problems can become painful if left untreated, so don’t hesitate to see Dr. Otten at Kettle Moraine Podiatry. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online.

What are some of the most common causes of foot pain? 

Foot pain can have many root causes, ranging from overuse injuries to structural problems and medical conditions. Other leading causes of pain include:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Flat feet
• Arthritis
• Neuromas
• Achilles tendinitis

Injuries are another common source of foot pain. Foot fractures and toe fractures may occur from sports injuries, falls, or repetitive stress on your bones. Sprains, tendon injuries, and overuse from running or standing for long periods can also lead to pain and swelling. 

You can also experience pain due to poor foot mechanics or inadequate arch support, which places extra strain on your feet and ankles over time. Conditions such as diabetes and nerve disorders may also contribute to chronic foot discomfort or numbness.

When should I seek medical help for foot pain? 

While occasional soreness after activity generally just needs rest, don’t ignore persistent or worsening pain. See Dr. Otten if your foot pain:

• Lasts longer than a few days
• Interferes with walking
• Is accompanied by swelling, bruising, redness, or numbness
• Causes difficulty bearing weight

Sudden injuries, especially those involving suspected foot fractures or toe fractures, need prompt evaluation to prevent complications and ensure you heal the way you should. If you have diabetes, seek care right away for any foot pain, wounds, or changes in skin condition to reduce your risk of serious complications.

How is foot pain treated? 

After a thorough evaluation, Dr. Otten typically starts care with conservative treatments designed to reduce inflammation, improve support, and restore normal foot function. Your comprehensive treatment plan may also include:

• Supportive footwear
• Stretching exercises
• Physical therapy
• Activity modifications

Custom orthotics and arch support solutions can help improve alignment, redistribute pressure, and relieve strain on painful areas of your foot. 

For inflammatory conditions such as plantar fasciitis or arthritis, cortisone injections can relieve pain and reduce swelling. If you have an injury like a foot fracture or toe fracture, you’ll likely require immobilization with a walking boot or other supportive devices to allow proper healing.

If you’re experiencing ongoing foot pain, Dr. Otten can help identify the cause and create a treatment plan tailored to address the root cause and provide relief. Call Kettle Moraine Podiatry today or book online to schedule your foot pain evaluation.