April is Foot Health Awareness Month, a time to give much-needed recognition to our feet—arguably the most underappreciated part of the body. Every day, they absorb shock, support our movements, and take on the full weight of our bodies. Yet foot pain is one of the most common health complaints in America, often left untreated until it disrupts daily life.
Let’s explore some of the most common foot ailments affecting Americans, how they feel, what causes them, and what we can do to stay pain-free and mobile.
HINT: Adding Orange Insoles to your shoes can often help improve symptoms associated with these ailments!
👣 The Most Common Foot Ailments in America
1. Plantar Fasciitis
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Definition: Inflammation of the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes.
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Feels Like: Sharp, stabbing heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of sitting.
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Causes: Excessive pronation (flattening of the arch), poor footwear, increased activity, or tight calf muscles.
2. Bunions
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Definition: A bony protrusion at the base of the big toe, causing it to angle inward toward the smaller toes.
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Feels Like: Swelling, redness, and pain around the big toe joint; stiffness when walking.
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Causes: Genetics, tight shoes, high heels, poor foot support, and flat feet.
3. Heel Spurs
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Definition: A calcium deposit causing a bony growth under the heel bone, often linked to chronic plantar fascia stress.
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Feels Like: A dull ache or sharp pain under the heel, especially after rest.
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Causes: Long-standing plantar fasciitis, overuse, and improper foot alignment.
4. Achilles Tendonitis
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Definition: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel.
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Feels Like: Pain, stiffness, or swelling in the back of the ankle—worse with movement or pressure.
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Causes: Overuse, tight calves, sudden training increases, and poor footwear.
5. Shin Splints
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Definition: Pain along the shinbone due to inflammation of the muscles, tendons, or bone tissue.
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Feels Like: Dull or sharp lower leg pain that worsens with activity.
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Causes: Overtraining, biomechanical flaws, unsupportive shoes, or sudden activity changes.
6. Knee Pain (Chondromalacia Patella)
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Definition: Degeneration or softening of cartilage beneath the kneecap.
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Feels Like: Dull ache, grinding, or catching sensation around the knee—especially after sitting or stair use.
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Causes: Excessive pronation, muscle weakness, or structural issues like knock knees.
7. Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome
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Definition: Inflammation of the IT band as it rubs against the femur.
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Feels Like: Lateral knee or hip pain, dull or sharp, that worsens with movement.
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Causes: Excessive pronation, uneven terrain, or tight IT band.
8. Piriformis Syndrome
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Definition: Irritation of the sciatic nerve caused by tightness or spasm in the piriformis muscle.
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Feels Like: Deep buttock pain, possibly radiating down the leg like sciatica.
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Causes: Poor posture, foot imbalances, or leg length discrepancies.
Why Plantar Fasciitis Tops the List
While all of these ailments are common, plantar fasciitis stands out as the most frequently reported cause of foot pain in America. In this article, the condition is described as one of the leading sources of heel pain due to its impact on the plantar fascia, especially in people with flat feet, active lifestyles, or unsupportive shoes.
Most people don’t realize that their footwear might be silently contributing to their pain. Fortunately, Orange Insoles offers a range of products designed to combat common foot ailments by correcting misalignment and providing targeted support. Plantar fasciitis, bunions, shin splints: these can be resolved. You can shop for relief right here.
Foot Health Lessons From a Shoe Store
Many of these ailments are preventable with the right awareness and footwear choices. In “5 Lessons Working at a Shoe Store Taught Me About Foot Health”, our very own Owen Keenoy, highlights just how much poor-fitting shoes contribute to pain, and how often customers overlook support in favor of style. Lesson learned: good support = less pain.
Foot Health for Seniors
As we age, our foot structure naturally changes—arches fall, fat pads thin, and flexibility declines. In this helpful guide on senior foot care, it’s emphasized that seniors are especially prone to plantar fasciitis, bunions, and balance-related issues due to compromised foot function. Proper stretching, wearing wide and supportive shoes, and adding insoles can help preserve comfort and mobility.
Take a Step Toward Healthier Feet
This Foot Health Awareness Month, don’t ignore the aches. Addressing foot issues early can prevent long-term problems in the knees, hips, and back. So whether you’re lacing up for a run, spending hours on your feet at work, or simply trying to stay active in retirement—your feet deserve the best.
Start by evaluating your footwear, stretching daily, and considering a supportive insole. Your future self will thank you.
