Sharp pain in the feet can make it difficult to do the things that you enjoy. It can even prohibit your usual, everyday activities, like going for a walk, shopping, or running errands. It is important to have your foot pain properly diagnosed so that you can get the treatment that you need. With treatment, most people can return to the activities that they enjoy while minimizing the pain that is experienced.
In general, there are two major factors that can cause sharp pain in the feet. The first factor is the improper use of the foot. Improper gait, balance and alignment issues, and injuries can all result in improper use of the foot, which in turn can cause sharp pain.
The second major factor that leads to sharp pain in the feet is improper footwear. Shoes that don’t fit properly, don’t provide adequate support, or constrict the feet are major contributors to sharp pain in the feet. Participating in high-impact or repetitive activities like running and jumping can aggravate the condition. If you experience sharp pain in your feet, be sure to see a doctor to have your condition properly diagnosed.
What Causes Sharp Foot Pain?
In many cases, sharp pain in the feet is caused by wearing improper footwear. Shoes that are too small, too narrow, don’t provide sufficient arch support, or have high heels can all cause sharp pain in the feet.
Wearing shoes that don’t fit or support your feet can both cause pain in the feet or aggravate an existing problem and worsen the pain. In many cases, resolving the pain can be as simple as choosing more appropriate shoes to wear or using arch supports or orthotic devices inside the shoes.
However, sharp pain in the feet can sometimes be an indication of a larger problem. It can be a sign that you have a more serious injury, such as fractured bones, torn tendons, torn ligaments, or nerve damage.
Heel Spurs
A heel spur is a bony growth that occurs on the heel. Typically, a heel spur is located on the bottom of the heel, at the place where the bone attaches to the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a band of tissue that runs the length of the foot and connects the heel to the ball of the foot. Sometimes, the plantar fascia can get stretched too far. This can cause a heel spur to develop.
If you have a heel spur, there are several treatment options. First, rest the foot and wear more supportive footwear. Properly fitted, well constructed shoes will provide additional support to the plantar fascia so that it does become overly stretched. Your doctor may also recommend that you receive steroid injections to reduce inflammation in the foot.
Achilles Tendon Injuries
The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body. It can become inflamed or even rupture, which will cause sharp pain in the foot. If you suspect that you may have an Achilles tendon injury, see your doctor for diagnosis. In addition, you should rest the foot and wear footwear that provides plenty of support. Ice, anti-inflammatory medication, and massage can also help to relieve Achilles tendon pain.
If you have a sharp pain in your foot, & have been diagnosed with any of the above conditions, call into your nearest Foot Solutions store. Our expert staff can advise on choosing supportive footwear & arch supports which may help to minimize your pain or discomfort.
