Foot Pain

Foot pain can be attributed to various conditions, with plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis being the most common. Ligament sprains, heel spurs, and bunions are also frequent causes of foot discomfort.

Ligament sprains: the foot comprises numerous ligaments, and excessive stretching or bending can lead to ligament sprains.

Heel spurs: these are excessive bone growths at the base or side of the heel, which often result from chronic plantar fasciitis and persistent muscle and fascia tension¹.

Bunions: bunions manifest as a lateral deviation of the big toe, creating an enlarged bone appearance where the toe meets the foot². Tight, improper footwear, particularly high heels over the long term, is a primary cause of bunions³. Additionally, increased pressure on the side of the big toe, pushing it inward toward the other toes, can also contribute to the development of bunions. This pressure can lead to pain while walking, skin irritation or redness, and misalignment of the toe.

At Queen West Physiotherapy, we recommend proper custom-made orthotics, especially designed for bunions. These may include bunion cushions or spacers to alleviate discomfort and promote proper foot alignment.

Physiotherapy for foot pain can also include manual therapy, acupuncture, taping, laser and ultrasound. Exercises including strengthening and stretching are almost always included as well.