Health conditions that ebb and flow can serve to make life difficult, as it can be hard to predict a flareup or know if you’re going to have a good or bad day. Migraine sufferers and patients with asthma know how challenging it can be to deal with a health condition that can flare up at a moment’s notice, but these types of issues can also develop in your feet. There are a few different foot conditions that can present with pain that comes and goes, and we want to spotlight those conditions if you’re dealing with inconsistent foot pain.
Inconsistent Foot Pain
If your foot pain seems to come and go, or it is worse at certain parts throughout the day, there’s a chance you may be dealing with one of these three foot conditions.
1. Plantar Fasciitis – Plantar fasciitis is a condition we’ve talked about at length on this blog, and it develops when the thick band of tissue on the underside of your foot becomes inflamed. This band of tissue connects your heal to your toes, and it can become inflamed or develop microtears if it is chronically stressed or overburdened. This connective tissues tends to tighten a bit when you’re resting, and then it can stretch and become uncomfortable when the area first experiences stress again, which is why many people with plantar fasciitis say the condition is worse first thing in the morning or after an extended seated period. Discomfort can sometimes fade a little as you walk and move around a little, which is why it can seem like pain is coming and going.
2. Achilles Tendonitis – Achilles tendonitis occurs when the Achilles tendon, the largest tendon in your body, becomes inflamed or irritated. This inflammation tends to develop following periods of prolonged activity or stress, leading to discomfort that ebbs and flows with activity level. Achilles tendonitis can feel like its resolved, but if you don’t do anything to strengthen the tendon (like with controlled exercise or physical therapy), symptoms can return if you push yourself too hard. Rest your Achilles but also work to strengthen the area and gradually increase your activity level as you return to athletics and other physical activities.
3. Morton’s Neuroma – A final problem that we want to spotlight that can come and go in waves is Morton’s Neuroma. It is a condition that affects the ball of the foot, specifically the zone between your third and fourth toes. Nerves run between the balls of your feet, and if a nerve becomes irritated or compressed, pain or uncomfortable sensations like numbness or tingling can develop. This discomfort tends to be most noticeable when you’re walking or stressing the foot, giving the impression that pain is coming and going based on your activity level. Working to decompress the nerve, either with physical therapy, weight loss or surgery can all be effective treatments for Morton’s Neuroma.
If you’re dealing with foot pain that comes and goes, don’t let the issue linger any longer. Instead, make it a point to proactively treat the condition and put it to bed for good. The best way to do that is by connecting with a foot specialist in your area. For more information, reach out to Dr. Silverman by filling out this contact form.