Achilles tendonitis is irritation or inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It commonly causes pain, stiffness, or tenderness at the back of the ankle and may be aggravated by walking, running, jumping, or sudden increases in activity. Footwear changes, activity modification, and orthotic support may help reduce strain on the tendon.
Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. It may cause itching, burning, redness, scaling, cracking, or peeling, especially between the toes or on the soles of the feet. Treatment usually involves antifungal medication and keeping the feet clean and dry.
Diabetes can affect circulation and the nerves in the feet, increasing the risk of numbness, skin changes, sores, and other foot problems. Reduced sensation may make injuries harder to notice, while poor circulation can slow healing. Regular foot checks, properly fitted footwear, and professional foot care are especially important for people living with diabetes.
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain involving irritation of the plantar fascia, a strong band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot. Pain is often worst with the first few steps in the morning or after a period of rest. Footwear changes, stretching, activity modification, and custom orthotics may help reduce strain and improve comfort.
Metatarsalgia is a general term for pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, usually beneath the metatarsal bones behind the toes. It may feel like aching, burning, or the sensation of walking on a pebble. High-impact activity, certain foot shapes, poorly fitting footwear, or increased pressure on the forefoot can contribute to symptoms.
Arthritis is a group of conditions that affect the joints and can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility. In the feet, arthritis commonly affects the toes, midfoot, and ankle. Supportive footwear and custom orthotics may help improve comfort, reduce pressure, and support better movement.
Bunions, claw toes, and hammer toes are common foot deformities that can change the position of the toes and create painful pressure points inside footwear. A bunion affects the joint at the base of the big toe, while claw and hammer toes involve abnormal bending of the smaller toes. Proper footwear and orthotic support may help reduce pressure and improve comfort.
Morton’s neuroma is irritation and thickening of a nerve in the ball of the foot, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. It can cause burning pain, tingling, numbness, or the feeling of having a pebble inside your shoe. Footwear changes and custom orthotics may help reduce pressure on the affected area.
Ready to take the next step toward greater comfort and mobility? Book an appointment with The Foot Smith for a professional assessment and personalized recommendations.
