Pain in the foot can affect every part of the foot, including the sole, arch, heel, and toes. Most causes of pain can be treated very easily, but there are different circumstances where surgery is necessary.

Some of the most common causes of foot pain include:

1) Bunions

This is a very common condition that affects the base of the big toe. It occurs when the big toe gets pushed toward the second toe.

Treatment: As soon as you notice a bunion forming, switch to wider, more comfortable shoes. If the bunion is severe and results in deformity or relentless pain, surgery may be needed. If surgery is suggested, get a 2nd opinion.

2) Plantar Fasciitis

If you experience pain in your heal when you wake up in the morning, chances are you have plantar fasciitis. This irritating pain means the band of tissue connecting your heel to your toes is inflamed.

Treatment: Stretching and rest will help you deal with the pain associated with plantar fasciitis. In some cases, anti-inflammatory medication is prescribed

3) Corns

Corns are thickened skin on toes or side of the foot. They are typically caused by poor-fitting shoes.

Treatment: The pain experienced by corns can be easily eased by wearing properly-fitted shoes. If the foot pain is severe because of an infection around the corn, antibiotics may be prescribed. For immediate relief, soak your foot in warm water, and then rub down the corn with a pumice stone, found in most drug stores.

4) Heel Spurs

A heel spur is a small hook of bone that forms on the heel bone. Heel spurs occur in almost 70% of patients with planter fasciitis. See a podiatrist is you think you have either condition. The podiatrist can determine the condition by taking and reviewing an X-Ray.

Treatment: Do not use heel inserts because they can increase your the pain caused by heel spurs. Treatment may range from cortisone shots, to physical therapy, to a pair of customer made orthonics.

5) Tendonitis

Over time, wear and tear affects the tendons in the foot, specifically the Achilles tendon. Those who suffer from Achilles tendonitis liken their pain to a sharp smack to the back of the heel.

Treatment: Initially, doctors will prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, to alleviate your pain. Physical therapy may also be recommended in order to strengthen the muscles.

If after two weeks of self treatment, your foot pain still persists, see your doctor or a podiatrist. Also, if you cannot bear weight on the foot, or if there is bruising, deformity, or blood present, a trip to your doctor is mandatory.