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Common Types of Foot Injuries
However, due to their complex structure, the feet are particularly susceptible to injury. Foot problems can range from mild irritation to serious conditions that require surgical intervention, and understanding the type of injury is the first step in determining the appropriate treatment.
The most common include the following:
- Sprains and strains: Often the result of falls, awkward steps, or sudden exertion without warm-up, sprains involve overstretched or torn ligaments, while strains affect the muscles and tendons. Severe tears may occur in conjunction with fractures.
- Fractures and stress fractures: Breaks in the bones of the foot may happen after direct trauma, twisting, or repetitive impact activities such as running or jumping. Osteoporosis and falls can further raise the risk.
- Bunions: Painful bony growths at the base of the big toe that cause swelling and joint misalignment.
- Hammer toes: Toes that bend abnormally at the middle joint, creating pressure, discomfort, and shoe fit issues.
- Plantar fasciitis: Inflammation of the thick band of tissue across the sole of the foot, leading to sharp heel or arch pain.
- Achilles tendonitis or ruptures: Irritation, inflammation, or tearing of the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone.
- Metatarsalgia: Pain and swelling in the ball of the foot, often linked to overuse or poorly fitted footwear.
- Arthritis: Degenerative changes in the foot joints that lead to stiffness, chronic discomfort, and reduced mobility.
- Diabetic foot complications: Ulcers, neuropathy, and other issues that require ongoing, specialized care.
- Morton’s neuroma: Thickened nerve tissue between the toes that may cause burning, tingling, or shooting pain.
While some of these conditions respond well to rest, therapy, or bracing, others may progress to the point where surgery offers the best chance at pain relief, improved stability, and restored function.