Each foot has 26 bones, 30 joints, and more than 100 muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Because of this complex structure and daily use, foot pain is a very common problem.

Pain can occur in any part of the foot—from the heel, arch, and ball to the top, sides, and toes—caused by injury, overuse, or underlying conditions. Some cases are short-term (acute), while others are long-term (chronic).

Potential Causes of Foot Pain

There are many reasons your foot could hurt. Below are 14 common causes of foot pain:

1. Your Shoes

Wearing shoes that don’t fit properly is one of the leading causes of foot pain. Shoes that are too tight, too loose, or lack cushioning and support can strain the foot’s structure and create pressure points, leading to discomfort. High heels and hard soles are common culprits.

2. Plantar Fasciitis

The plantar fascia—a band of tissue that supports the arch—can become inflamed, causing intense heel pain. The pain usually appears after periods of rest, such as first thing in the morning. It’s common in adults aged 40–60 and in those who stand, run, or walk on hard surfaces frequently.

3. Corns and Calluses

Thickened skin areas form from repeated friction or pressure. Corns appear on the toes, while calluses develop on the soles. They can be dry, flaky, and sometimes painful.

4. Ingrown Toenail

When a toenail edge grows into the surrounding skin, it causes sharp pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. It’s often due to trimming nails too short or rounding the edges.

5. Metatarsalgia

Pain in the ball of the foot that feels like stepping on a pebble. It’s typically caused by tight shoes or repetitive impact, such as running or jumping.

6. Achilles Tendonitis

Inflammation of the tendon connecting the heel bone to the calf muscle. It’s common among athletes or those who skip stretching before exercise. Pain usually occurs at the back of the heel or ankle.

7. Bunion

A bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, pushing it toward other toes. Bunions grow slowly, often run in families, and are more common in women. Tight shoes can make them painful.

8. Hammertoe

A deformity where the middle joint of a toe bends downward, often caused by tight shoes, trauma, or arthritis. The bend may cause rubbing, blisters, or pain.

9. Sprained Toe

Occurs when a ligament is overstretched or torn, often from stubbing your toe or sudden movement. It can cause bruising, swelling, and throbbing pain that lasts for weeks.

10. Bone Fracture

A break in any of the foot’s bones due to trauma or overuse. Symptoms include swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. X-rays help confirm the diagnosis.

11. Arthritis

Joint inflammation that causes pain and stiffness. Common forms include osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear) and rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune). Arthritis can limit toe movement and worsen over time.

12. Gout

A form of arthritis caused by uric acid buildup, often affecting the big toe. Gout attacks cause sudden, sharp pain, redness, and swelling—typically at night. It’s linked to diet, genetics, and alcohol intake.

13. Plantar Warts

Caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), these small skin growths appear on the soles and can hurt when walking. They often look like small black dots and spread in public spaces like locker rooms.

14. Peripheral Neuropathy

Nerve damage that causes burning, tingling, or numbness in the feet. It’s most common in people with diabetes but may also occur from poor circulation, autoimmune disease, or vitamin B12 deficiency.

Risk Factors for Foot Pain

You may be more likely to experience foot pain if you:

• Are older or female

• Have diabetes, heart disease, or arthritis

• Are overweight

• Stand or walk for long periods

• Smoke or wear unsupportive shoes

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider will examine your feet, discuss your symptoms and medical history, and may recommend:

• X-rays or MRI scans for bone or soft-tissue problems

• Blood tests for inflammation or autoimmune causes

• Nerve tests for neuropathy

• Visual exams for skin-related issues like warts or corns

Treatment Options

Lifestyle changes: Switch to properly fitting shoes, maintain a healthy weight, and protect your feet during physical activities.

Home remedies: Rest, ice, warm water soaks, and gentle stretching help reduce pain and inflammation.

Orthotics: Custom or store-bought inserts can support arches and reduce strain.

Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, or corticosteroid injections may help.

Surgery: For severe bunions, fractures, or chronic cases that don’t respond to other treatments.

Prevention Tips

• Wear comfortable, supportive shoes

• Keep toenails trimmed straight

• Avoid walking barefoot in public spaces

• Exercise regularly to strengthen bones and muscles

• Maintain good foot hygiene

• Manage chronic conditions like diabetes or arthritis

Living With Foot Pain

Acute pain usually improves with rest and treatment. Chronic pain can persist, affecting quality of life—but most people find relief through consistent care, proper footwear, and medical support when needed.