Persistent Left Foot Pain: Causes and Solutions

Left foot pain?

Hello, Doctor.
Around June or July, I started experiencing intermittent pain in my left heel.
Later, the pain radiated upwards, sometimes reaching my thigh near the hip, and it would extend up to my lower back.
Occasionally, I also feel pain in my knee, both when I’m walking and when I’m at rest, and even while sleeping.
The pain is almost a daily occurrence, and I have not been able to identify the cause.
The doctors I have seen have all asked if I had any injuries, to which I replied no.
I recalled an incident from March when I was swimming.
While doing the breaststroke, I felt a sensation of rotation in the bone near my left kidney during a kick.
I wonder if this could be the reason for my left leg pain.
When I bend over with my legs together, I notice that my left leg extends down from the thigh and exhibits some twisting.
Currently, I cannot stand for long periods, and walking becomes more difficult when my foot hurts.

Amy, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/12/04

Dr. Shi Qiming reply Orthopedics

Dear Amy,
The symptoms you described could have several possible causes:
1.
Pain caused by sciatic nerve compression.
This type of pain may sometimes not have a specific tender point and can be migratory.
In more severe cases, it may lead to numbness in the calf or the sole of the foot.

2.
Hip fractures, tendon inflammation, or joint inflammation could also present similar symptoms.
Therefore, I recommend that you consult a specialist to avoid worsening your condition.

Best regards.

Reply Date: 2003/12/04

More Info

Understanding persistent left foot pain can be quite complex, especially when the pain radiates from the heel to the thigh and even up to the lower back. Based on your description, it seems that the pain has been persistent and multifaceted, affecting various parts of your leg and foot. Here are some potential causes and solutions based on the symptoms you've described.

Possible Causes of Your Left Foot Pain
1. Plantar Fasciitis: This is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, becomes inflamed. Symptoms typically include sharp pain in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged sitting.

2. Achilles Tendinitis: This condition involves inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Pain may be felt at the back of the heel and can radiate up the leg.

3. Nerve Compression: Conditions such as tarsal tunnel syndrome can occur when the tibial nerve is compressed as it travels through the tarsal tunnel near the ankle. This can lead to pain, tingling, or numbness in the foot.

4. Referred Pain: Given that your pain extends from the foot to the thigh and lower back, it’s possible that the pain is referred from another area, such as the lumbar spine. Issues like herniated discs or sciatica can cause pain that radiates down the leg.

5. Muscle Strain or Sprain: The incident you mentioned while swimming could have caused a strain or sprain in the muscles or ligaments of the leg. Even if you did not feel immediate pain, such injuries can manifest later.

6. Biomechanical Issues: Flat feet, high arches, or improper gait can lead to uneven distribution of weight and stress on the foot and leg, resulting in pain.

Recommended Solutions
1. Rest and Ice: Initially, it’s crucial to rest the affected foot and apply ice to reduce inflammation. Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain.

2. Footwear: Ensure that you are wearing supportive shoes that fit well. Avoid high heels or shoes with inadequate support. Custom orthotics may also help in correcting any biomechanical issues.

3. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can assess your gait and biomechanics, providing exercises to strengthen the muscles around the foot and leg, improve flexibility, and correct any imbalances.

4. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Incorporate stretching exercises for the calf muscles and plantar fascia. Strengthening exercises for the foot and ankle can also help alleviate pain.

5. Medication: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation.

6. Consult a Specialist: If the pain persists despite conservative measures, it may be beneficial to consult an orthopedic specialist or a podiatrist. They may recommend imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs to identify any underlying structural issues.

7. Alternative Therapies: Consider therapies such as acupuncture or chiropractic care, which may provide relief for some individuals.

Conclusion
Persistent foot pain can significantly impact your quality of life, and it’s essential to address it comprehensively. Since you’ve experienced pain for several months, it’s advisable to seek further evaluation from a healthcare professional who can provide a tailored treatment plan based on a thorough assessment of your condition. Remember, early intervention often leads to better outcomes, so don’t hesitate to pursue further medical advice.

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