Foot Problems:
Foot Pain
Are You Experiencing Foot Pain?
Foot pain can have a major impact on your quality of life. At Podiatry International Barbados, we understand that your feet serve as the foundation of your entire body. Pain in this area can make standing, walking, and daily activities feel difficult or even impossible. Our expert team is here to help you identify the cause and create a personalized treatment plan.
Foot pain can stem from injuries, structural imbalances, poor footwear, or underlying health conditions. Early diagnosis is essential to avoid long-term complications.
Identifying the Source of Foot Pain
Foot pain may be accompanied by:
- Swelling or redness
- Bruising or tenderness
- Numbness or burning sensations
- The location of the pain often offers clues about its cause:
- Heel Pain: Plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, Achilles tendinitis
- Ball of the Foot: Morton’s neuroma, sesamoiditis
- Arches: Flat feet, plantar fasciitis, strain
- Toes: Bunions, hammertoes, ingrown nails, gout, corns and calluses
- Ankle Area: Sprains, instability, or overuse injuries
Common Causes of Arch & Heel Pain
- Poor biomechanics (often inherited)
- Overuse, trauma, or injury
- Obesity or excess weight
- Muscle tightness or imbalance
- Bone or joint deformities
- Improper footwear or activity surfaces
- Health conditions such as arthritis or gout
Conditions Related to Foot Pain
Plantar Fasciitis
A common cause of heel and arch pain due to strain or injury of the plantar fascia ligament. Often most painful with the first steps of the day.
Heel Spurs
Bony growths that develop beneath the heel bone. Pain arises when inflammation occurs due to stress or poor mechanics.
Achilles Tendinitis
Inflammation of the tendon that connects the calf muscle to the heel. Often triggered by overuse, improper training, or tight calf muscles.
Pump Bump (Haglund’s Deformity)
A bony enlargement at the back of the heel, usually caused by constant rubbing from shoes. Linked to poor biomechanics.
Arch & Heel Pain Treatment
Most arch and heel pain stems from poor alignment or abnormal foot function. When feet don’t absorb impact properly, stress builds up in the heel, ligaments, or surrounding structures.
Other contributing factors include:
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Hard walking surfaces
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Inadequate arch support
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Sudden increase in activity
What You Can Do
- Wear supportive shoes with proper cushioning and arch support
- Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces
- Use the R.I.C.E. method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
- Warm up and stretch before/after physical activity
- Maintain a healthy body weight to reduce joint stress
What Your Podiatrist Can Do
- Perform a thorough foot and gait exam
- Order diagnostic tests (X-ray, MRI, CT, bone scan)
- Offer professional taping or bracing for support
- Prescribe anti-inflammatory or pain medications
- Design custom functional orthotics
- Administer injections if needed for pain management
- Recommend surgical treatment in chronic or severe cases
Book an Appointment Today
Your feet deserve the best care. Schedule your podiatrist visit now and start your journey to healthier, pain-free feet. Located in Barbados.