Foot Pain When Running? A Sports Podiatrist's Guide
If you're experiencing foot pain when running, you're not alone. This is one of the most common complaints we see at Lower Limb Clinic, and it's often a sign of Plantar Fasciitis or Stress Fracture. The good news? With proper diagnosis and treatment, most patients experience significant improvement within 6-12 weeks with proper management.
Common Causes of Foot Pain When Running
Plantar Fasciitis
The high loads of running stress the plantar fascia, causing heel or arch pain that may occur during or after running.
Who typically experiences this: Runners who've increased mileage, those with poor footwear, runners with tight calves.
Stress Fracture
Overuse can cause hairline fractures in the metatarsal bones, navicular, or calcaneus, with pain that worsens during running.
Who typically experiences this: Runners with rapid training increases, those with low bone density, female athletes.
Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
The tendon supporting the arch can become strained with running, causing inner arch and ankle pain.
Who typically experiences this: Runners with flat feet, those who overpronate, middle-aged runners.
Without proper assessment, it's impossible to know exactly what's causing your foot pain when running. What works for Plantar Fasciitis may not help—or could worsen—Stress Fracture.
When Should You Seek Professional Help?
You should book an assessment if:
- Foot pain occurs with every run
- Pain is getting worse despite rest
- You're limping during or after running
- You have localised tenderness or swelling
"Most patients we see have tried various home remedies before booking. You're not wasting our time—persistent symptoms warrant professional assessment."
Our Diagnostic Approach
At your initial consultation, we'll:
Take a detailed history
Understanding when your foot pain when running started, what makes it better or worse, and your activity levels.
Physical examination
Hands-on assessment of your foot, ankle, and lower limb.
Biomechanical assessment
Evaluating how you stand and walk, identifying any contributing factors.
Gait analysis (if indicated)
Video and pressure plate analysis to understand your movement patterns.
We'll explain our findings clearly and discuss all treatment options before recommending a plan.
How We Treat Foot Pain When Running
Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include:
Video gait analysis
Identify running mechanics contributing to your pain
Load management plan
Structure your training to allow healing
Running-specific orthotics
Custom devices for your running footwear
Shockwave therapy
For chronic tendon and fascia problems
"We don't believe in one-size-fits-all treatment. Your plan will be tailored to your specific diagnosis, lifestyle, and goals."
"I'd been suffering with foot pain when running for months before finally coming to Lower Limb Clinic. Within weeks of starting treatment, the improvement was remarkable. Wish I'd come sooner!"
— Verified Patient Review
Common Questions About Foot Pain When Running
Ready to Find Out What's Causing Your Foot Pain When Running?
Book a comprehensive assessment with our MSc-qualified specialist. Most patients wish they'd come sooner.
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