Why do my feet hurt when I wake up?

Have you ever wondered: “Why do my feet hurt when I wake up?”. Having intense pain in your foot can be remarkably distressful and is a very unpleasant way to start your day. The pain ranges in causes and intensity. Most conditions can be treated when detected early. From simple therapy and changing to the right fitting shoes, to more intense such as medication and surgery.

What are the main reasons for feet pain when waking up?

The main reasons why one may wake up with aching feet are:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Achilles tendinitis

Plantar Fasciitis & Achilles Tendinitis are usually the main causes for aching feet

Plantar fasciitis is characterized by thick band tissue inflammation running across the sole and connects to your toes. A primary symptom is stubbing pain when walking. Some factors that increase the risk of one getting are the age, that is anyone between the ages of forty to sixty is at a higher risk seeing majority of cases fall within this age range. Certain types of exercise that place a lot of stress on the heel may result in the condition. Occupation and obesity are also culprits of the stress and discomfort on your heels. In the case of occupation, this is true when one is required to be on their feet for extended periods of time.

The good thing is the majority of patients suffering from the condition are able to make a full recovery within a few months, and this is through medication and therapy. Pain relievers are able to alleviate the pain (Ibuprofen) caused by the morning pain and long-term therapy can be equally effective. The long-term treatment consists of exercises that strengthen and stretch the lower leg and plantar fascia. Wearing night splints has also proven to be effective since they are able to hold in place plantar fascia and Achilles’ tendon in a lengthened position overnight. 

The connection of Plantar Fasciitis and aching feet in the morning

Some factors that increase the risk of one getting are the age, that is anyone between the ages of forty to sixty is at a higher risk seeing majority of cases fall within this age range.

Certain types of exercise that place a lot of stress on the heel may result in the condition. Occupation and obesity are also culprits of the stress and discomfort on your heels. In the case of occupation, this is true when one is required to be on their feet for extended periods of time.

Other causes for why do my feet hurt when I wake up?

Achilles Tendonitis 

Some causes of aching feet when waking up are:

• Achilles’ tendinitis
• Arthritis
• Flat feet
• Bone spur
• Poorly fitting shoes

Achilles Tendonitis

The other probable cause of the pain may be  Achilles tendonitis, which is an injury that results from the over usage of the Achilles tendon. Unlike plantar fasciitis, it is more common in athletes who may have suddenly increased the intensity of the duration of their workout or routines. The treatment tends to be a lot simpler as it entails therapy being administered in the presence of a qualified physician, only in very severe cases does it require surgical repair in case it has been torn or in case it raptured.

Some of the risk factors are sex and age. Middle-aged males who have increased chances of acquiring injury ought to be aware of this. Also, underlying medical conditions such as high blood pressure increase injury probability. Certain types of medications have also been directly linked to the injury.

Preventive measures one can take to avoid the complication include gradually training within one’s limits. That means not suddenly taking up an intensive exercise that is likely to strain the Achilles tendon. Also being cognizant of the shoes selected, the right shoes should adequately cushion your heels and have firm support to ensure no tension is built upon the heels.

Arthritis

Two of the more common types of this condition are called osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The more common of the two is rheumatoid arthritis or RA, which is an inflammatory and autoimmune disease inflammation that occurs as a result of the immune system attacking the healthy cells in the body. It is more common in joints around the knees, wrists and hands and this results in tissue damage. This tissue damage leads to excess chronic pain in the victims and a lack of balance.

It is best to get it treated early, some of the signs of this condition include weakness and fatigue. There is also noticeable weight loss. Stiffness within the joints and followed by pain and aching in the joints. And similar symptoms on both sides of the body.

Despite not being fully aware of the specific causes of either osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, there have been some risk factors that may foreshadow the disease. Most notable among them being age, despite anyone being at risk at just about any age, it is more common among people over the age of sixty. Sex may be another factor since it has been found to be slightly more common among women. Genetics also play a role in contributing to a higher risk of contracting arthritis. Others are smoking and obesity.

Arthritis once diagnosed through lab tests and X rays, can be treated and effectively managed using the right medication. One of the ways the medicine works is by slowing down the disease to prevent joint deformity. Self-management strategies have also been effective in reducing the amount of pain associated with arthritis.

Flat Feet

This results in pain in the feet when there is swelling in the arches. The pain is a result of a lack of support for the ligament and the foot muscles. It is caused by low arches and can result in waking up with swollen feet.

It results in pain when there is swelling in the arches and heels. The strain experienced in the heels is a result of the lack of support for the ligaments.

Wearing Inappropriate Shoes

Similar to other causes, the arch may be in excessive amounts of stress if the wrong type of foot is worn. When the shoe does not fit as it should, this may result in inadequate support for the arch and the heel, this imbalanced distribution of stress may be detrimental to the comfort of the foot.

The interesting part is that most disorders have actually been linked to this practice and as it is more common than expected. It can be prevented by ensuring the shows are always fitting and the weight and stress are all well distributed.

How Do I Treat the Aching Feet in the morning?

Different causes require different approaches when it comes to treatment. The initial step requires the correct diagnosis and afterwards, correct steps can be measured to both treat and prevent future instances.

Treatments vary based on the conditions, and of course the intensity of the condition:

• Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can be treated through mediation such as steroids which help reduce inflammation and joint ache while slowing down the damage. Counterirritants have also been effective in reducing the joint ache associated with arthritis. In more severe cases surgery may be considered when the joint needs replacement or repair.
• Achilles Tendonitis is a lot more different compared to arthritis and can be treated using therapy when it is mild and the rate of recovery is fast if done correctly. Only in rare cases where there has been a rapture of the Achilles tendon is surgery required to repair it. Physical therapy administered by a professional help in the treatment and recovery process.
• Plantar fasciitis can be treated simply by resting and icing the painful area. Within a few months, the patients will have made a full recovery. To address the immediate pain there are pain relievers one can take.

To stay up to date on information regarding the Aching feet especially in the morning. Check out our article site and see the best medication available for you on arrival!

If you have additional question, contact your Podiatrist.

Also, we recommend visiting our article for best shoes for Plantar Fasciitis to see the soles and shoes that support your arch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can foot pain in the morning be a sign of a more serious underlying condition?

Foot pain in the morning can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition. While conditions like plantar fasciitis are common causes of morning foot pain, it’s essential to be aware of other potential issues. Certain conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, nerve entrapment, or peripheral neuropathy, can also cause foot pain upon waking. If the pain is persistent, severe, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms like swelling, redness, or numbness, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. They can help determine the exact cause of the foot pain and recommend appropriate treatment options to address any underlying conditions.

How can I alleviate foot pain in the morning?

There are several steps you can take to alleviate foot pain when you wake up. Start by gently stretching your feet and calves before getting out of bed. This can help loosen the plantar fascia and reduce the intensity of the pain. Rolling a frozen water bottle or a tennis ball under your feet can provide relief by massaging the fascia and reducing inflammation. Additionally, wearing supportive shoes or using orthotic inserts that provide arch support can help distribute pressure and reduce strain on the feet. Avoid walking barefoot or wearing unsupportive footwear, as this can exacerbate the pain. If the pain persists, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation and guidance.

Can the type of shoes I wear contribute to foot pain in the morning?

Yes, the type of shoes you wear can play a role in the foot pain you experience in the morning. Wearing shoes with inadequate arch support, cushioning, or improper fit can contribute to foot discomfort. Shoes that lack proper support can strain the plantar fascia and lead to inflammation and pain. It’s important to choose shoes that are appropriate for your foot type and provide adequate cushioning and arch support. Look for shoes with a supportive midsole, cushioned insole, and a roomy toe box to allow for natural toe movement. If you’re unsure about the right type of shoes for your feet, consider consulting with a podiatrist or footwear specialist for personalized recommendations.

Are there any lifestyle factors that can help reduce foot pain in the morning?

Yes, certain lifestyle factors can help reduce foot pain when you wake up. Maintaining a healthy weight can relieve pressure on your feet and reduce strain on the plantar fascia. Regular exercise, such as stretching and strengthening exercises for your feet and calves, can improve flexibility and reduce the likelihood of pain. It’s also important to give your feet adequate rest and avoid prolonged periods of standing or walking on hard surfaces. If you engage in activities that put repetitive stress on your feet, such as running or high-impact sports, make sure to wear appropriate footwear and gradually increase intensity to prevent overuse injuries. Finally, maintaining good overall foot hygiene, such as keeping your feet clean and dry, can help prevent foot conditions that may contribute to morning foot pain.

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