Pain in the midfoot area can be caused by a variety of conditions. It can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, or it could be the result of an injury. Knowing the cause of the pain is important in order to determine the best course of treatment. In this article, we will discuss the most common causes of foot pain in the midfoot area and the various treatment options available.
Common Causes of Foot Pain
Foot pain in the midfoot area can be caused by a number of medical conditions and injuries. These include:
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Plantar Fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel and midfoot pain. It is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. Symptoms include pain and stiffness in the arch of the foot, especially when walking or standing.
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Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition is caused by a pinched nerve in the tarsal tunnel, which is a narrow passageway on the inside of the ankle. Symptoms include pain, tingling, and numbness in the midfoot area.
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Stress Fracture: This is a small crack in one of the bones in the foot, usually caused by repetitive stress or trauma. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and tenderness in the midfoot area.
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Arthritis: This is a condition that causes inflammation in the joints, resulting in pain, swelling, and stiffness. It can affect any joint in the body, including the joints in the foot. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and stiffness in the midfoot area.
Treatment Options for Foot Pain
Treatment of foot pain in the midfoot area depends on the underlying cause. Common treatment options include:
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Rest: Resting the foot is important to allow the body to heal. This may include avoiding activities that cause pain, such as running or jumping.
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Ice: Applying an ice pack to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and pain. It should be applied for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
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Medication: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
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Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve flexibility, strength, and range of motion in the foot.
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Orthotics: Custom-made orthotics can help
Foot pain can range from tolerable to debilitating, and for many, their pain is located in the middle of their foot. Foot pain in the center of the foot can range from sharp and throbbing to a burning sensation, depending on the underlying cause. From gout to an injury, there are a number of possible reasons for discomfort and pain in the middle of the foot.
Arthritis is a leading cause of foot pain in the middle of the foot. Osteoarthritis, which causes the joint and cartilage to wear away, is the most common form. When osteoarthritis attacks the joints of a foot, it can cause a burning and aching sensation in the foot area. Rheumatoid arthritis is another form of the condition which can lead to pain in the foot area. In addition, gout—a build-up of uric acid in the joint—can also cause a burning sensation in the foot as well as extreme pain during movement.
Injury is another leading cause of foot pain in the middle of the foot. Stress fractures, or small cracks in the bones of the foot, can cause a sharp pain that increases with movement. Plantar fasciitis is another form of foot injury which can cause a burning sensation in the middle of the foot. Plantar fasciitis is caused by the stretching of a ligament located in the foot and can make performing even basic tasks a painful endeavor. In addition, nerve damage resulting from diabetes can also make the middle of the foot tender and achy.
Finally, poor fitting shoes can cause pain in the middle of the foot. Shoes that are too tight can pinch the foot’s natural form and create irritation. Shoes that are too loose can cause the foot to slide forward and back, creating an abrasive sensation which can create pain. Additionally, high heels can lead to arch pain in the middle area of the foot with repeated use.
While foot pain in the middle of the foot can range from mild to severe, it is important to note that it is rarely a sign of a serious medical issue. If you experience persistent pain in the middle of your foot, it is best to speak to your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. With the right diagnosis, you can take the necessary steps to improve foot health and regain comfort and mobility.