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Pain under the Feet: Footpads and Causes
Pain under the feet, especially around the pads, is a problem that affects many people. This pain can be very bothersome, making it difficult to walk and perform daily activities. In this article, we will examine the causes of pain under the foot pads, the most common symptoms and how to treat this problem. We will also discuss how the FasciaClinics can help you manage and relieve the pain under your footpads.
What causes pain under the footpads?
Description of pain under the pads of the feet
Pain under the pads may be felt as sharp, burning or throbbing. The pain often worsens with exertion, such as walking, running or standing for long periods.
Common factors that can contribute to foot pad pain
There are several factors that can contribute to pain under the footpads. Some of the most common include:
Overexertion: Repeated activities that stress the forefoot, such as running or jumping, can cause overuse and inflammation of the metatarsal heads, known as metatarsalgia.
Incorrect footwear: Shoes that don’t provide enough support or are too tight can cause the forefoot to compress, increasing pressure on the pads.
Biomechanical problems: Incorrect walking or running technique, flat feet or high arches can cause an imbalance in the load on the foot, leading to pain under the pads.
Foot deformities: Conditions such as hammertoe, hallux valgus (crooked big toe) and morton’s neuroma can also contribute to pain underfoot.
Being overweight: Being overweight can increase the strain on the feet and especially on the pads, which can lead to pain and discomfort.
Symptoms of pain under the pads of the feet
Pain or discomfort under the pads of the feet when straining or walking
The most prominent symptom is pain or discomfort under the foot pads. This pain is usually aggravated by strain, such as when walking, running or standing for long periods. The pain can be sharp, burning or throbbing and can make it difficult to continue with the activity.
Soreness or swelling in the area under the pads
In addition to pain, the pads may also become sore and swollen. The swelling is often caused by inflammation and can be visible and palpable. The soreness may make it uncomfortable to touch or press on the area.
Any burning sensation or tingling
In some cases, pain under the pads may be accompanied by a burning sensation or tingling. This may be a sign of nerve involvement, as in Morton’s neuroma.
Treatment of pain under the pads of the feet
Rest and avoidance of activities that aggravate the pain
The first step to relieve pain under the pads is to rest and avoid activities that aggravate the pain. This reduces inflammation and gives the foot time to recover. It may be necessary to reduce or adapt exercise routines to avoid further strain on the pads.
Use of orthopaedic insoles or inserts to provide support and relieve the pads of the feet
Orthopaedic insoles or inserts can be very effective in relieving pain under the pads. These insoles provide extra support and cushioning, helping to distribute weight more evenly across the foot and reduce stress on the metatarsal heads. There are different types of insoles that can be customized to your specific needs and foot shape.
Stretching and strengthening exercises for the feet and lower legs to improve biomechanics and reduce pain
Stretching and strengthening exercises for the feet and lower legs can help improve biomechanics and reduce pain under the pads. Some recommended exercises include:
Stretch the back of the foot: Sit on the floor with your legs outstretched gently flexing your toes. This helps to stretch the muscles in the back of the foot.
Arch exercises: Stand with your feet hip-width apart and lift the arch of your foot by pulling your toes towards your heel without lifting your foot off the ground. Hold for a few seconds and then relax.
Heel lift: Stand with your feet on a step or raised surface and let your heels hang outside. Then lift your heels up so you’re standing on your toes and lower them back slowly. This strengthens the calf muscles and improves the stability of the foot.
How can we help you with your foot pain?
At the FasciaClinics, we specialize in seeing and treating the body from a holistic perspective. We perform fascia treatments, a highly effective wellness treatment that focuses on treating and maintaining the fascia in our body. The fascia is the network of connective tissue that binds and permeates everything in our body. All cells, tissues (even bone tissue), muscles and organs contain fascia.
Fascia treatment focuses on releasing tension and adhesions in the fascia and increasing its flow. This allows us to have an improved mobility of the body with less pain and improved self-healing.
During the visit, we analyze the whole body to see where compensations and imbalances are and how they have spread. If there is an imbalance in the body, there is a risk that they will spread and affect other structures. That’s why it’s very important to seek help quickly as soon as you get any symptoms. Fascial treatment for pain under the feet involves balancing the body to even out the stresses on the structures around the foot. We also focus on softening the plantar fascia and increasing its flow to reduce pain and stiffness. The treatment is done both manually and mechanically with gentle vibrations. A less stiff fascia with a good flow also makes it easier for the cells to absorb substances.
The treatment is not painful and is often very pleasant. Remember that it may take several treatments to get good results and that it is important to adjust your activities between treatments. If you do activities that make the symptoms worse, it will take longer to get rid of the condition.
For more information about our services and how we can help you with foot pain, please visit our FasciaClinics website. Here you will also find resources and articles on foot pain and other related topics that may be helpful to you.
In summary, pain under the foot pads is a common problem that can affect your ability to perform daily activities. By understanding the causes, symptoms and treatment methods, you can effectively manage and relieve your pain. At the FasciaClinics, we are here to support you every step of the way towards recovery and an active life without pain.
