What Causes Foot Pain? Common Foot Problems and How to Prevent Them

Introduction
Foot pain is a common complaint among Malaysians, impacting everyone from athletes to office workers. As a physical therapist, I often see foot issues like plantar fasciitis, abductor hallucis strain, bunions, and Morton’s neuroma. In many cases, poorly fitting shoes are the root cause. Let’s explore these common foot issues, their symptoms, and how to avoid them through proper footwear choices.

1. Plantar Fasciitis: What You Need to Know
The plantar fascia is a thick tissue band that runs along the bottom of the foot, acting as a shock absorber. When overstressed—often due to narrow shoes or overuse—the fascia degenerates, causing intense pain, especially during morning steps. It’s now known that restricted blood flow, rather than inflammation, leads to tissue degeneration. Squeezing of the big toe from narrow shoes is a common cause of this issue.

2. Abductor Hallucis Strain: The Overlooked Muscle Strain
Abductor hallucis strain occurs when the muscle or tendon is damaged due to overuse or shoe-related stress. A narrow toe box can overstretch this muscle, making it hard for the foot to function effectively, leading to strain. Common symptoms include pain on the inside of the heel and arch, swelling, and sometimes a radiating pain that worsens in the morning.

3. Bunions: Painful Bony Bumps on Your Feet
Bunions are bony bumps that form on the side of the big toe, pushing it inward due to ill-fitting shoes. Bunions can also increase the risk of plantar fasciitis and heel pain as they restrict blood flow in the foot. The worse the bunion, the greater the discomfort and risk of complications.

4. Morton’s Neuroma: The Nerve Pinch Between Toes
Morton’s neuroma is a painful nerve condition that occurs between the third and fourth toes, often linked to tight, narrow shoes with high heels. This condition can feel like a burning pain or a pebble in the shoe. It’s most common in women over 30 and can become chronic if left untreated.

The Role of Proper Footwear in Preventing Foot Pain
The common link between these foot issues is footwear. Choosing shoes that allow natural foot movement without restriction can prevent pain and improve overall foot health. Look for:

• A wide toe box
• Flat, flexible soles
• Shoes that support natural foot posture

Conclusion
If you’re experiencing foot pain, consulting a qualified physiotherapist in Malaysia can help diagnose and treat the issue effectively. Through proper footwear and guided physical therapy, you can alleviate pain and prevent future problems.