The foot is a complex structure designed to hold your weight when you stand, walk, run, or jump. Part of that structure includes two arches, longitudinal and transverse. Ligaments combine with muscles and a band of tissue called plantar fascia to form secondary support to the arch of the foot. Fat pads in the heel also help with holding your weight and absorbing impact. If anything goes wrong within this structure, the arch of the foot can be compromised. Among the causes of arch pain are direct trauma, muscle strains, ligament sprains, poor body mechanics, stress fractures, and overuse injuries. If you are experiencing arch pain that interferes with your daily activities, it is a good idea to consult a chiropodist. A brief history of your activities leading to the pain, an examination of the arch and foot, and imaging tests may be performed. Once the cause and severity of the arch pain are determined, the chiropodist can offer appropriate treatment options. 

Foot pain can have many causes. To receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment for your foot pain, please consult with Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Causes

There are a variety of different conditions that can cause foot pain, including: 

• Plantar fasciitis

• Deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes

• Injuries to the muscles, bones, tendons, or ligaments in the feet

• Arthritis

• Flat feet

• Ingrown toenails

Symptoms

The type and location of your foot pain can help determine what may be causing it and what type of treatment options are best for you. 

Common types of foot pain include: 

• Heel pain

• Arch pain

• Toe pain

• Ball of foot pain

• Pain that has a stabbing, burning, or tingling quality

• Pain that is constant, intermittent, or that gets better or worse depending on the situation 

Diagnosis

A thorough medical history and physical examination of your feet will be required to determine a diagnosis. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs may be performed to rule out or confirm certain diagnoses. 

Treatment

Treatment will depend on the cause of the pain. Common treatments for foot pain include resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot, wearing orthotics, or taking anti-inflammatory medications. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.