While dull foot pain may be less annoying than sharp foot pain, it doesn’t mean that you should just try to ignore the problem and hope that it goes away on its own. Dull foot pain could be caused by a number of different issues, but oftentimes these underlying problems respond well to treatment. If you attack it with the right proactive treatment plan, you may be able to end your dull foot discomfort once and for all. In today’s blog, we explore some causes of dull foot pain and discuss your treatment options.
Causes Of Dull Foot Pain
A variety of foot issues could be causing dull foot pain, so there’s no guarantee that the issues we discuss below are actually the root cause of your pain. If you really want to figure out what’s causing your mild foot pain, set up an appointment with your primary care physician or a foot specialist. With that said, here’s a look at some conditions that tend to present with dull foot pain:
Plantar Fasciitis – Plantar fasciitis is a condition categorized by inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the underside of your foot and connects your heel to your toes. Discomfort tends to be worse with your first few steps in the morning as the constricted tissue expands and suffers microtearing when you put pressure on the foot. It tends to become less uncomfortable as you go about your day, which is why it can feel like you have dull foot discomfort if you’re battling plantar fasciitis. Treatment – Treatment typically involves avoiding intense physical activity for a few weeks while you rest and pursue some controlled physical therapy exercises.
Gout – Gout is an inflammatory condition caused by the buildup of uric acid in your bloodstream. This acid crystallizes and irritates the soft tissues in your joint, sometimes affecting your foot or your big toe. Treatment – Gout is typically treated with lifestyle improvements. Eating a healthier diet, drinking more water, reducing or eliminating alcohol intake and avoiding smoking can all help you manage gout.
Arthritis – Arthritic degeneration of different structures in your foot can contribute to mild foot pain, especially as you get older. You won’t be able to reverse the damage that has been done, but you can still work to strengthen your feet and maintain flexibility and mobility. Treatment – You can help alleviate symptoms and limit the progression of arthritis by getting regular exercise, eating a healthier diet and working to maintain an optimal weight, as this will help to take pressure off your feet.
Metatarsalgia – Metatarsalgia is a common overuse injury that leads to inflammation and pain in the ball of your foot. It oftentimes affects amateur athletes or anyone who increases the amount of strain on their feet in too short of a time period. Treatment – Rest, anti-inflammatory medications and wearing comfortable shoes that support your feet can help prevent and treat metatarsalgia.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome – Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the posterior tibial nerve in your foot becomes compressed. Oftentimes this is caused by a previous foot injury, but it can also be the result of foot shape changes that occur as you age or due to arthritis or diabetes. Treatment – Common treatments involve rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy and orthotic inserts.
Dull foot pain oftentimes progresses to more severe discomfort if treatment measures aren’t pursued, so don’t put off care any longer. Instead, connect with Dr. Silverman and the team at Silverman Ankle & Foot today at (952) 224-8500.
