People who exercise regularly are no strangers to foot pain. Most forms of exercise -- particularly high-impact activities such as running -- can place high levels of stress on the muscles and bones in the foot. This type of pain can easily force you out of your regular routine, or at least inhibit your ability to exercise as normal. There are many potential causes for pain in the foot, and a wide range of methods for treating them.
Muscular Injuries
A stone bruise is a common development on your feet, particularly if you have stepped hard or had a high-impact encounter with a sharp rock or object. But these are easily treatable, requiring only some extra padding on the foot and/or a few days of rest. Plantar fasciitis, on the other hand, is more complex -- this inflammation of the plantar fascia, which runs on the underside of the foot, can sideline you for weeks at a time. It is difficult to treat because you use the plantar fascia whenever you step on your foot. Over time, plantar fasciitis that does not heal properly can develop painful calcium deposits known as bone spurs.
Bone Injuries
Bone injuries tend to be more serious forms of foot injuries. The most common cause of foot pain originating in the bones is a stress fracture. These fractures are barely visible through X-rays, and are not easily detected from the surface, often causing only some inflammation and swelling at the location of the injury. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, stress fractures tend to occur in response to an increase in the frequency, duration or intensity of your exercise.
Tendon Pain
Tendinitis can occur in locations where the foot's tendons absorb excessive amounts of stress. One such location is the Achilles tendon. Another condition that develops in the tendons is sesamoiditis -- this is marked by inflammation of the tendons near the small bones in the first metatarsal, which is connected to the big toe. This part of the foot regularly absorbs high levels of stress, and high-impact activities and/or an increase in load-bearing in the location -- such as due to dancing or running -- can cause this condition to develop.
Considerations
For many conditions, taking a few days off from exercising can lead to marked improvements in the health of your injured location. If your pain does not improve after a few days, though, visit a doctor of foot specialist to have your foot looked at. Additionally, visit a doctor immediately if the pain is severe or debilitating. While many injuries can be effectively treated through stretching and proper care before and after exercise, some -- such as stress fractures -- may require extended time wearing a cast or walking boot.
