From Inflammation to Infection: Common Foot Conditions You Shouldn’t Ignore
Feet serve as the foundation of the human body, carrying the weight and absorbing the impact of daily activities. Despite their vital role, foot health is often overlooked until pain or dysfunction begins to interfere with mobility. Common foot conditions, ranging from mild inflammation to serious infections, can significantly affect quality of life and may lead to long-term complications if ignored. This article outlines the most common foot conditions—covering causes, symptoms, and treatment options—to help individuals recognise when to seek professional care.
One frequently overlooked condition is sesamoiditis, a type of inflammation that affects the small sesamoid bones under the big toe joint. This issue is particularly common among athletes and individuals who engage in high-impact activities. In cities like Toronto, where many people walk or cycle frequently, sesamoiditis Toronto searches reflect a growing need for awareness and specialised care. Early intervention can prevent the condition from progressing and affecting daily function.

1. Plantar Fasciitis: The Heel Pain Culprit
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most widespread causes of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia—a thick band of connective tissue running from the heel to the front of the foot—becomes inflamed due to overuse, poor foot mechanics or unsuitable footwear. The hallmark symptom is a sharp pain in the heel, especially noticeable during the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest.
Treatment options include rest, stretching exercises, proper footwear, and in some cases, orthotics or physical therapy. Delaying treatment can cause the condition to become chronic, affecting one’s ability to walk or stand comfortably.
2. Achilles Tendinitis: Pain at the Back of the Heel
Achilles tendinitis involves inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This condition is common among runners and those who suddenly increase their activity levels. The pain usually starts as a mild ache and may worsen with physical activity.
Ignoring early signs can result in tendon rupture, a severe injury that may require surgical repair. Conservative management includes rest, ice application, supportive footwear, and a gradual return to activity.

3. Bunions: Deformity at the Big Toe Joint
A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, causing the toe to deviate towards the other toes. It is more common in women and can be exacerbated by tight or narrow shoes. Bunions can cause persistent pain, redness and swelling, eventually affecting balance and gait.
While mild bunions can be managed with footwear modifications, toe spacers and orthotics, advanced cases may require surgical intervention to correct the alignment.
4. Hammertoes: Toe Joint Abnormalities
Hammertoe is a condition where one or more of the smaller toes become bent at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. This deformity is often caused by muscle imbalance, arthritis or ill-fitting shoes. Symptoms include pain, calluses and limited range of motion in the affected toe.
Left untreated, hammertoes can become rigid and more difficult to correct. Non-surgical treatment includes wearing roomier footwear and using padding or splints. Severe cases may require corrective surgery.
5. Ingrown Toenails: A Painful, Preventable Problem
Ingrown toenails develop when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing redness, swelling and pain. If left untreated, they can become infected and lead to complications such as abscesses or cellulitis.
Contributing factors include improper nail trimming, tight shoes and foot trauma. Mild cases may resolve with proper nail care and soaking, but more advanced infections may require antibiotics or partial nail removal by a healthcare provider.
6. Foot Ulcers: A Serious Sign, Especially for Diabetics
Foot ulcers are open sores or wounds that fail to heal properly. They are particularly common in individuals with diabetes, peripheral vascular disease or neuropathy. These ulcers often develop on pressure points such as the heel or ball of the foot and may go unnoticed due to reduced sensation.
If not treated promptly, foot ulcers can lead to infections, abscesses or even amputation. Management includes wound care, offloading pressure, treating infection and improving circulation. Preventive measures such as regular foot inspections and appropriate footwear are crucial for those at risk.
7. Athlete’s Foot: A Common Fungal Infection
Athlete’s foot is a fungal skin infection that typically affects the area between the toes. It thrives in warm, moist environments such as communal showers and locker rooms. Symptoms include itching, scaling, redness and in some cases, blisters.
The infection can spread to other parts of the body or to other individuals if not treated properly. Antifungal creams or powders are usually effective in clearing the infection, though severe cases may require oral medication.
8. Toenail Fungus: More Than a Cosmetic Issue
Fungal nail infections (onychomycosis) often begin as white or yellow spots under the tip of the toenail and may progress to cause nail thickening, discolouration and crumbling. Although often dismissed as a cosmetic issue, untreated fungal nails can lead to pain, difficulty walking and secondary bacterial infections.
Treatment options include topical antifungal agents, oral medication or laser therapy. Good hygiene and keeping the feet dry are important preventive steps.
9. Corns and Calluses: Thickened Skin from Friction
Corns and calluses form as a result of prolonged friction or pressure on the skin, usually caused by ill-fitting footwear or abnormal gait. Corns are smaller and often painful, while calluses cover larger areas and are usually painless.
Though not dangerous, they can cause discomfort and indicate underlying biomechanical problems. Treatment includes removing the thickened skin, using protective pads and addressing the root cause through footwear changes or orthotics.
10. Morton’s Neuroma: A Nerve Problem Between Toes
Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition involving the thickening of tissue around a nerve between the third and fourth toes. It is often described as a feeling of standing on a pebble and may cause burning, numbness or tingling in the toes.
The condition is aggravated by wearing tight shoes or engaging in high-impact activities. Treatment includes wearing wider footwear, using orthotics or receiving corticosteroid injections. Surgery may be required for persistent symptoms.
11. Gout: An Inflammatory Joint Condition
Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. The big toe is commonly affected, presenting with sudden, intense pain, redness and swelling.
Triggers include certain foods, alcohol and dehydration. Acute attacks are treated with anti-inflammatory medications, while long-term management involves lifestyle changes and medications to reduce uric acid levels.
12. Peripheral Neuropathy: Nerve Damage in the Feet
Peripheral neuropathy refers to nerve damage that affects sensation in the feet. It is often associated with diabetes but can also result from alcohol abuse, infections or certain medications. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, burning and weakness.
Because it reduces pain perception, peripheral neuropathy increases the risk of injuries, ulcers and infections. Management focuses on controlling the underlying cause and alleviating symptoms through medication or physical therapy.
13. Flat Feet and Overpronation: Structural Foot Issues
Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This can lead to overpronation, where the foot rolls inward excessively during walking. Both conditions can contribute to knee, hip and lower back pain.
Diagnosis is typically made through gait analysis. Treatment includes orthotic insoles, supportive footwear and exercises to strengthen the foot and ankle muscles.
14. Charcot Foot: A Diabetic Emergency
Charcot foot is a serious complication of diabetes in which the bones of the foot become weakened and fracture easily, often without pain due to neuropathy. As the condition progresses, the foot may become deformed and unstable.
Early detection is crucial to prevent long-term damage. Treatment includes immobilisation, custom footwear and, in some cases, surgical correction.
Foot conditions, whether inflammatory or infectious, should never be ignored. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are key to preventing complications and maintaining mobility. From sesamoiditis and bunions to ulcers and neuropathy, these issues highlight the importance of regular foot assessments and prompt treatment. A proactive approach to foot care can preserve function, reduce discomfort and support overall well-being.













