Disorders of the feet and ankles are common conditions in the United States. About 75 percent of Americans experience foot pain at some time during their lives, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Poorly fitting shoes, trauma during exercise, diabetes, obesity and certain inflammatory conditions are major causes of problems with the feet and ankles.
Achilles Tendonitis
Tendons are cords of connective tissue that attach muscles to bones. The Achilles tendon attaches the calf muscle to the ankle bone, or calcaneous. Overuse or injury to the tendon causes inflammation of the tissue that surrounds it. Eventually, the inflammation spreads into the Achilles tendon itself, producing pain at the back of the heel. The area also might have some swelling. If the condition is not allowed to heal, it could lead to a partial or complete tear of the tendon. Repetitive activities that put added strain on the tendon or sports-related injuries to the tendon are common causes of tendonitis, the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons explains.
Plantar Fasciitis
The plantar fascia is a band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. A disorder of the plantar fascia causes pain that is felt in the heel, especially in the morning upon getting out of bed. According to the Merck Manuals Medical Library, the condition does not always involve inflammation, as the name implies. Rather, tight calf muscles, tearing or deterioration of the fascia are more likely contributors to the problem. Obesity, standing on hard surfaces and having certain arthritic conditions also are associated with plantar fasciitis.
Bunions
A bunion is a protrusion or prominence at the base of the big toe. It results from a problem with foot structure, whereby the big toe leans in toward the second toe. Over time, the misalignment of the bones causes the bunion to worsen. Inflammation of the joint capsule, warmth and tenderness are common symptoms. Other joint problems such as osteoarthritis commonly result along with bunions.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the posterior tibial nerve is compressed between the ankle bone and a dense band of connective tissue called the flexor retinaculum. Pressure on the nerve creates sensations of burning and tingling on the inside portion of the ankle and the sole of the foot. The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons reports that arthritic conditions, flat feet, injuries and diabetes are some of the factors associated with tarsal tunnel syndrome.
