What’s Causing My Foot Pain in the Morning?

There are a number of potential causes of morning foot pain, including arthritis, Achilles tendonitis, and nerve entrapment. Arguably the most common cause, however, is plantar fasciitis. This happens when the plantar fascia, or the thick band of tissue running from the heel to the toes, becomes inflamed or irritated.

So, what causes plantar fasciitis? Inflammation is a natural and essential part of your body’s healing process, and you are likely to experience inflammation of the plantar fascia if you are on your feet for extended periods of time. This is because repetitive stress can cause micro-tears and degeneration which must be healed. Of course, the body does a lot of healing overnight as you sleep!

It's important to note that overly-high or very-low arches, poorly fitting shoes, and sudden movement can increase the risk of plantar fasciitis. Remember to stretch your feet before intense or extensive physical activity and wear proper shoes for the occasion!

What Can I Do About Morning Foot Pain?

Morning foot pain can be a sign that your body is doing its job of healing, but the discomfort can be debilitating. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to alleviate the pain.

For beginners, give your body – and feet – a stretch when you wake up in the morning. During sleep or periods of inactivity, your muscles and tissues can tighten and contract. Reduced blood flow can also contribute to morning stiffness in the feet. Give your feet a gentle massage and stretch to warm up for the day!

If the stiffness or pain is still there, you can run warm water over your feet, or soak your feet in a bucket of warm water. This can loosen the muscles and allow you to start stretching them.

Should I See a Foot Doctor?

If your foot pain is chronic and/or severe, then it might be best to see a licensed podiatrist, or foot doctor. Podiatrists have years of education and training to employ personalized plantar fasciitis treatment. A licensed podiatrist will assess your foot for any injuries or deformities, then they will come up with a custom treatment plan, tailored for your specific circumstance. This can involve pain medications, orthotics, steroid shots, or surgery as a last resort.

Residents in the area can call Podiatry Centers of Maryland to schedule an appointment with a licensed podiatrist in Clinton, MD today.