Foot Pain

Your feet bear a heavy load every day, so they’re often a cause of pain. At Atlantic Advanced Spine and Neurology Institute’s offices in Bethlehem, Lilburn, and Braselton, Georgia, the board-certified neurologists determine what’s causing foot pain and deliver cutting-edge treatments to relieve it. Whether the problem is Morton’s neuroma or gout, they can help. Call the Atlantic Advanced Spine and Neurology Institute office nearest you today to arrange a consultation or complete the online booking form.

What is foot pain?

Foot pain is any kind of discomfort in your toes, heel, arch, or the ball of your foot. It can be sharp, dull, burning, or throbbing. Causes include:

Injuries

Common injuries include tendon sprains, ligament strains, and broken bones.

Plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation affecting the thick band of tissue underneath your foot. It causes intense heel pain.

Arthritis

Arthritic disorders are chronic conditions that cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in your joints. Gout, which triggers severe attacks of pain, is common in feet.

Nerve disorders

Nerve disorders or neuropathies include tarsal tunnel syndrome (nerve compression) and diabetic peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage).

Morton’s neuroma

Morton’s neuroma is a thickening of tissue around a nerve between your toes. It often causes sharp pain or the feeling of a pebble in your shoe.

Foot pain can also develop if you have flat feet or high arches, which can cause muscle and joint strain.

What are the symptoms of foot pain?

Foot pain symptoms vary, but common signs include:

• Aching or sharp pain in one part of your foot
• Swelling or redness
• Stiffness or trouble moving your foot
• Numbness, tingling, or burning (especially with neuropathy)
• Pain that gets worse with walking or standing

Since your feet support your whole body, foot pain can make walking, running, or even standing hard.

What does foot pain diagnosis involve?

To diagnose your foot pain, the Atlantic Advanced Spine and Neurology Institute team asks questions about your symptoms and performs a physical exam. They may also order tests.

X-rays check for broken bones or joint problems, while MRI or ultrasound look at soft tissues such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments. You might need electromyography (EMG) nerve tests if your provider suspects nerve damage, or blood tests to look for signs of arthritis or infection.

How is foot pain treated?

Foot pain treatment depends on the cause, but common options include:

• Rest and ice to reduce swelling and allow healing
• Pain medications or anti-inflammatory drugs
• Physical therapy or stretching exercises
• Supportive shoes or custom orthotics (shoe inserts)
• Injections to reduce pain and inflammation

If foot pain doesn’t improve in a few days, keeps coming back, or affects how you walk, it’s time to seek medical help.

Getting the correct diagnosis early can prevent further problems, so call Atlantic Advanced Spine and Neurology Institute today or schedule a consultation online.