Stretching your muscles, ligaments, and joints is an effective way to stay limber and flexible throughout the day. You can also stretch in preparation of beginning an exercise routine for the day as a means to limit the onset of injury due to sprains or strains. However, feeling pain in the middle bottom of your feet during a stretch may be the sign of another medical condition or preexisiting injury.
Plantar Fasciitis
One example of a medical condition that can cause pain and swelling in the middle bottom of your feet is plantar fasciitis. This condition is marked by pain and inflammation in the large band at the bottom of your foot, otherwise known as the plantar fascia. When it is inflamed, you can have difficulty walking, standing, or otherwise putting any weight on your affected foot due to pain on the bottom of your sole. This pain can become more severe when stretching the foot.
Fallen Arches
Another possible cause of pain in your bottom foot during a stretch stems from a condition called fallen arches. This condition, which is also referred to as having "flat feet," is a degenerative disorder that causes the natural arch in your sole to lower or become less-prominent over time. The result can be pain or discomfort while walking or standing. This condition is treatable via the use of orthotics, which are supporting devices usually installed into your shoes.
Sprains
You may also experience pain in the middle bottom of your foot if you have recently sprained a ligament in this area. This type of injury can be caused from blunt trauma to your foot while running or can result from overuse or friction in the bottom area of your foot. This injury can become even more painful when you are stretching your foot and may also be accompanied by swelling or redness.
Considerations
While many injuries to your muscles or ligaments are minor in severity and not a cause for major medical concern, sharp or intense pains in your feet may be the sign of a more serious disorder or condition. If you experience pain in your feet for a prolonged period, consult your physician for treatment options and preventative care steps.
