Sudden foot pain without injury: causes and treatment options

Many people experience sudden foot pain that seems to have no obvious cause. This can be a frustrating and concerning experience, especially if it continues to occur sporadically. Foot pain can be a symptom of a more serious underlying issue. It is important to understand the possible causes of any sudden foot pain without injury. An accurate diagnosis can help you find effective treatment methods.

 

Causes of sudden foot pain without injury

• Plantar fasciitis — Plantar fasciitis is a condition that can cause sudden flares of pain. The plantar fascia is a thick strip of tissue running along the bottom of your foot. Plantar fasciitis arises when this band becomes inflamed. Pain from this condition can be felt throughout the foot, particularly in the arch and heel.

• Metatarsalgia — This is a term for pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot. Metatarsalgia is not always caused by an underlying health condition. In some cases, sudden heel pain can be caused by strenuous exercise or walking in shoes that fit poorly.

• Morton’s neuroma — Morton’s neuroma is a thickening of tissue that can occur around the sole of the foot. The nerve leading to the toes can be compressed by this tissue, leading to sensations of burning pain and numbness. Treatments for this condition focus on reducing inflammation to alleviate nerve pain.

• Tarsal tunnel syndrome — Sudden foot pain without injury is often caused by issues that are not visible on the surface. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition that can be difficult to diagnose for this reason. One study says that tarsal tunnel syndrome is an often underdiagnosed disease. This is a neuropathic condition that involves nerve compression at the ankle. It can be thought of as similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist. Like Morton’s neuroma, this condition can lead to sudden flares of nerve pain.

• Arthritis — Arthritis is a highly common condition. Developing for a variety of reasons, arthritis can lead to sudden foot pain without injury. One form of arthritis known for causing flares of pain in the foot is gout. This is a type of inflammatory arthritis. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases recommends treating gout to reduce pain and prevent future flares. Treatment options can include anti-inflammatory medications, lifestyle changes and physical therapy.

 

Treatment options for sudden foot pain without injury

 

The most effective treatment options for your foot pain will depend on its main causes. This is why it is important to learn about the source of your foot pain. A free screening at a physical therapy clinic can be a helpful step toward finding a solution.

• Pain medication — Over-the-counter pain medications can help provide temporary relief from foot pain. However, it is important to remember that pain medication will not provide long-term improvement.

• Heat and ice therapy — Many conditions that cause sudden foot pain without injury can be addressed with therapeutic modalities. Applying ice to a target area can reduce swelling, which can help reduce pain from conditions like Morton’s neuroma. 

• Custom orthotics — Foot pain can be exacerbated by poor footwear. With orthotic insoles, you can provide your foot with the support it needs. Features like added arch support and cushioning can help relieve pain and promote balance throughout the body.

• Gait training — Improving your walking pattern can improve your foot health. If your sudden foot pain is associated with walking or running, it may be caused in part by your gait. Physical therapy specialists can provide a running gait analysis to help target particular issues. Gait training can help you walk and run with minimal to no pain.

• Physical therapy — Physical therapy provides a wide array of treatment options to address sudden foot pain. A physical therapy specialist can work with you to create an individualized treatment plan tailored to your conditions and needs. Treatment options could include manual therapy, a hands-on therapy option designed to reduce inflammation and enhance healing. Other parts of a physical therapy treatment plan might involve stretches and exercises that target the foot or other areas causing your pain.

 

SSOR can help diagnose and address your sudden foot pain without injury

 

Dealing with sudden foot pain without injury can be stressful. It can feel especially difficult when you don’t know how to address the foot pain. That’s why our team at SSOR (Specialists in Sports and Orthopedic Rehabilitation) works to help you every step of the way. We believe that effective treatments should be available and convenient to all patients. Our commitment to meeting patients where they are at extends into our virtual physical therapy, where you can receive the same dedicated guidance from the comfort of your own home.

Contact us today for more information about addressing foot pain or to schedule an initial appointment.