Common Causes of Fall Foot Pain
At Goldsmith Podiatry, a question we frequently hear from our Manhattan patients during the fall is, "Why are my feet hurting now?" Of course, one possibility at any time of the year is that a new foot problem has developed. It's always best to make an appointment promptly at our Upper West Side office by calling: 212-877-1002 as soon as you notice new or worsening foot pain. Our podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith, Dr. Rosanna Troia, and Dr. Kristina Ruff, will examine your feet and find the source of your discomfort.
There are, however, a few seasonal reasons why feet may be hurting more now. Three of the most common are:
Too much time this summer in flip-flops--it’s hard to convince patients that the traditional summer flip-flop is bad for your feet. After all, it's so comfortable, super quick to slip on and off, and your feet feel completely free. But the downside is that these shoes provide no support or protection for your feet. Patients who have spent most of the summer in flip-flops may find that by the time fall rolls around, they have arch and heel pain and possibly heel spurs or plantar fasciitis. You're also more likely to twist your ankle wearing flip-flops. If you are suffering from ankle pain or stiffness now, you may have suffered a sprain over the summer that hasn't fully healed.
A bunion or hammertoe is progressing—these toe deformities may show no signs of change for extended periods. Still, they are progressive conditions, meaning they will only get worse, not better, over time. It's possible that your bunion or hammertoe deformity has increased during the summer months and is especially noticeable when you switch to closed shoe styles in the fall. Another sign that a toe deformity is worsening is corns and calluses forming where your foot rubs against your shoes.
Your shoe size has increased—most people are unaware, but it's natural as you age for the tendons and ligaments in your feet to relax and lose some of their firmness which in turn causes your feet to spread a bit and may necessitate a larger size shoe. Weight gain can also make your feet bigger. If you haven't done so recently, get your feet measured and make sure you're buying the correct size shoes.