Each step taken by an adult can place 900 lbs. of pressure per square inch on the bottom of the foot, making it likely that over a lifetime nearly everyone may suffer a foot injury that results in swelling and pain. Pain and swelling can affect any part of the foot, from the heel to the tips of the toes. Injuries such as broken bones, strains, sprains and contusions can occur at any time. Any serious foot injury should be evaluated by a podiatrist or physician.
Fractures and Stress Fractures
The foot is comprised of 26 bones, any of which can suffer a fracture. Generally, there is immediate pain, but not always. Pain is followed closely by swelling and possibly the formation of a bruise around the site of the fracture. Fractures require prompt medical attention.
Stress fractures are not immediately evident, as these injuries are a result of repetitive stress to the same area. The first symptom is a dull, aching pain that goes away with rest. Over time, swelling occurs directly over the stress fracture and the pain becomes disabling.
Plantar Fasciitis and Bone Bruising
The plantar fascia is a strong, wide ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot. It begins at the heel and attaches to the bones in the ball of the foot, maintaining the arch. With each step, the plantar fascia stretches to allow the foot to flatten out in order to absorb shock. The plantar fascia can become inflamed and irritated from overuse, causing pain and swelling.
A related injury is a bone bruise, or contusion, to part of the heel where the plantar fascia attaches. Over time, a small bone spur can form on the heel from the constant stretching of the plantar fascia. Due to decreased shock absorption, it can become bruised from the heel repetitively striking the ground while walking. Symptoms include pain and swelling along the bottom of the foot, and perhaps a small bruise under the heel.
Turf Toe, Strains and Sprains
Turf toe occurs due to vigorous upward bending of the first toe joint, causing a sprain. It is so named because it is a common injury suffered by athletes who play on artificial turf. According to SportsInjuryClinic.net, symptoms include pain and swelling at the big toe joint, possibly extending down into the ball of the foot. It is also possible to sustain a sprain in the middle of the foot, causing pain and swelling as well as some local bruising. Mid-foot sprains typically occur as a result of an athletic injury or fall.
Puncture Wounds and Cuts
The bottom of the foot is prone to getting puncture wounds and cuts, especially when walking barefoot. A puncture wound creates a small hole into the foot, usually caused by stepping on a nail, causing pain and swelling at the injury site. A puncture wound should be examined by a physician to determine if it is contaminated with foreign material. Deep cuts are open tears in the skin capable of causing pain and swelling. Once bleeding is controlled, a deep cut should be evaluated by a physician to determine if it needs stitching.
