Foot and Ankle Pain

What’s causing your foot and ankle pain?

Foot and ankle pain can have many causes. Some pain is acute, coming on suddenly and lasting only a few days or weeks. Pain can also be chronic, developing gradually and lasting a long time, possibly a lifetime. Understanding the source of your discomfort is the first step toward relief and healing.

At the Foot Center of New York, we know each foot has its own unique story—which is why our expert team takes a thorough and personal approach to your care. Here are some of the most common conditions we treat and how they may be affecting your foot health:

Bunions

A bunion is a bony bump at the base of the big toe that can cause pain and swelling. Many people with bunions find it hard to find shoes that fit. If you don’t treat bunions, they can get worse over time. In serious cases, they may cause joint damage and change the way you walk.

Hammertoes

This condition causes one or more toes to bend at the middle joint. It often happens because of foot injuries, muscle imbalances, or shoes that don’t fit well. Hammertoes often lead to pain, corns, and difficulty walking. Depending on how bad they are, you might need shoe modifications, physical therapy, or surgery.

Plantar Fasciitis

One of the most common causes of heel pain is plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is the thick tissue band along the bottom of your foot that connects your heel bone to your toes. Plantar fasciitis is when this tissue band gets inflamed. Many patients with plantar fasciitis feel sharp pain with their first step in the morning. But relief is possible—stretching, custom orthotics, physical therapy, or surgery can help.

Heel and Bone Spurs

Bone spurs, also known as osteophytes, are bony growths that appear along your heel or other joints. They form in response to pressure, injury, or inflammation. While not always painful, they can cause discomfort—especially when they press on soft tissue or nerves while you’re walking.

Arthritis

Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other joint issues can lead to ongoing pain, stiffness, and swelling in your feet and ankles. Early intervention helps manage symptoms and slow progression, which can be done with medication, physical therapy, supportive footwear, and other treatments.

Flat Foot

Flat foot is when the arch of the foot collapses or never fully develops, which can lead to foot fatigue, ankle instability, and pain that radiates up your legs. Custom orthotics, supportive shoes, and strengthening exercises can help relieve symptoms.

High Arch Foot

A high-arch foot puts too much pressure on the ball (metatarsals) and heel of your foot, which can cause pain, instability, and a higher chance of ankle sprains. Treatment focuses on cushioning, support, and maintaining balance through proper footwear and bracing.

Foot Tendonitis

Tendon inflammation in the foot, like the Achilles or peroneal tendons, can happen due to overuse, wrong shoes, or injury. It often shows up as pain and swelling in a specific area. Rest, ice, physical therapy, and sometimes immobilization can help it heal.

Neuroma or Nerve Entrapment

A neuroma is a thickening of nerve tissue, usually appearing between your toes or on the ball of your foot. This condition can cause burning pain, numbness, or tingling. Custom orthotics, padding, and in-office procedures can help ease pain and prevent more nerve damage.

Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown toenail happens when the edge of a toenail grows into the skin. This can cause pain and often leads to infection. Early treatment can help ease pain and avoid complications, especially for patients with diabetes or circulation problems.

Gout

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that often affects the big toe. This condition causes sudden, severe pain, redness, and swelling. Changes to diet, medication, and lifestyle can help manage flare-ups and prevent joint damage.

Foot Bursitis

Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones and tendons. When inflamed, they can cause pain and tenderness around the affected area. Resting the foot, proper shoegear, and using medication can help reduce pressure and treat inflammation.

Ganglion Cysts

Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled lumps that can form near joints or tendons by your ankle or toes. They may press on nerves, leading to discomfort, limited movement, or trouble walking. They are usually harmless—but if they cause pain or last a long time, you may need the fluid drained (aspiration) or surgery.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is the inflammation of the small sesamoid bones beneath the big toe joint, which can be caused by repetitive stress, pressure, or overuse. It’s usually seen in runners, dancers, and certain athletes. Treatment often includes rest and a change in footwear—but in serious or long-term cases, surgery may be needed.

Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD)

If your flatfoot appeared as an adult, it was likely caused by PTTD. PTTD results from damage or the breaking down of the tendon that supports your arch. Early diagnosis is key—if left untreated PTTD can cause lasting deformity and disability. It’s often managed with physical therapy, orthotics, or surgery if advanced.

Diabetic Patients: Ulcerations and Wounds

• If you have diabetes, then proper foot care is even more essential for your overall health. Small cuts or wounds can become very serious, very quickly for diabetic patients and may even lead to hospitalization or amputation without timely treatment. To keep your feet healthy and avoid potential issues, we strongly recommend regular screenings with your podiatrist. Book yours today!

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Learn more about Diabetic Foot Care at FCNY