Foot Pain Treatment in Bristol | Osteopath for Foot Pain

Plantar fasciitis

The most common cause of heel and foot pain we see. Plantar fasciitis is an irritation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of connective tissue that runs along the underside of the foot from the heel to the toes. It causes a sharp, stabbing pain on the underside of the heel, typically worst with the first steps in the morning or after periods of sitting. It is very common in runners, people who stand for long periods, and those who have recently increased their activity levels. It is very treatable with the right approach.

Metatarsalgia

Pain in the ball of the foot, typically worsening with standing, walking, and activity. Metatarsalgia is not a diagnosis in itself but a description of symptoms that can have several causes, including altered foot mechanics, tight calf muscles, Morton’s neuroma, and metatarsal stress fractures. Accurate assessment is essential to identify the specific cause.

Morton’s neuroma

A thickening of the tissue around one of the nerves supplying the toes, causing pain, burning, and tingling in the ball of the foot and toes. Typically felt between the third and fourth toes. Often worsens with tight footwear and improves when shoes are removed. Responds well to a combination of osteopathic treatment, footwear advice, and load management.

Hallux valgus (bunion)

A bony deformity at the base of the big toe that causes pain, redness, and swelling at the joint. Bunions develop gradually and are influenced by foot mechanics and footwear. While osteopathy cannot correct the structural deformity, treatment can significantly reduce pain, improve foot mechanics, and slow progression.

Hallux rigidus

Stiffness and pain in the big toe joint, caused by degenerative changes. The big toe is essential for normal walking and running, and restriction here significantly alters how the foot and the whole lower limb function. Osteopathic treatment to restore as much movement as possible in the big toe joint can make a significant difference to pain and function.

Tibialis posterior tendinopathy

Pain and swelling on the inner side of the ankle and foot, caused by degeneration of the tibialis posterior tendon, which plays a key role in supporting the arch of the foot. Often associated with flat feet and progressive arch collapse. Early treatment is important as this condition can worsen significantly if left untreated.

Stress fractures of the foot

Stress fractures most commonly affect the metatarsals and the navicular bone in the foot, typically in runners and those who have increased their activity levels too quickly. They cause localised pain that worsens with activity and eases with rest. If we suspect a stress fracture, we will refer you promptly for imaging.

Flat feet and high arches

Significant deviation from normal foot arch height, in either direction, alters how forces are distributed through the foot and the entire lower limb. Both flat feet and high arches can contribute to foot pain and to problems in the ankle, knee, hip, and lower back. We assess foot posture as part of every lower limb assessment and address it where it is contributing to symptoms.

Gout

Gout causes sudden, severe pain, redness, and swelling in the joints of the foot, most commonly the big toe. It is caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint. Acute gout requires medical management rather than osteopathic treatment, but we can help with the musculoskeletal consequences of recurrent gout and the movement restrictions it leaves behind.