Severe Foot Pain: Should I Consult a Physician?
I’m a 33-year-old female without any pre-existing health conditions. Recently, I began working a part-time job in July, where I find myself on my feet for 8 to 10 hours each day. Although I typically work around 30 hours weekly, I consider myself moderately active outside of employment. During my shifts, I receive only one 30-minute break, and since starting the job, my feet have been excruciatingly painful. Initially, I noticed discomfort around the five-hour mark of my shifts, but by the next morning, the pain would subside. I had hoped my body would adjust over time; however, the pain has intensified. At times, the ache radiates up to my knees. The primary discomfort is localized in the arch of my foot and just below the ankle, and it feels deep, almost as if my bones are hurting – something I’ve never experienced before. Nowadays, when I wake up, the pain is quite severe for an hour or two until I start moving around. Even after two consecutive days off, the discomfort persists. Interestingly, there’s no pain on the outer side of my feet or around my toes, and my heels are also unaffected. I’m uncertain if this is a common experience that others endure or if it signals a more serious condition that warrants a visit to a healthcare professional. Previously, I worked as a dog walker and held other active roles without any issues, so I suspect my current job's stationary nature may be contributing to the problem. Is it necessary for me to see a doctor? Are there adjustments I can make to alleviate this pain? I’ve attempted to manage the discomfort with ibuprofen, but it hasn’t provided significant relief. Any insights would be greatly appreciated!
Answers (1)
8/18/2025, 1:11:02 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are experiencing significant foot pain due to prolonged standing at your new job, which is not uncommon in roles that require being on your feet for extended periods. While this discomfort can often be managed with self-care strategies, the persistence and severity of your pain are concerning enough to warrant attention.
Explanation
The symptoms you describe (pain in the arch and below the ankle, worsening after long periods of standing, and morning discomfort that eases with movement) suggest you may be experiencing a common condition related to overuse, such as plantar fasciitis or strain in the muscles and ligaments of the foot. The fact that the pain radiates up to your knees and persists even after days off indicates your body is struggling to recover fully.
Next Steps
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Footwear Optimization: Start by examining your shoes. Ensure you are wearing supportive, well-fitted footwear designed for long hours of standing. Avoid flat shoes or those without arch support. Consider using orthotic inserts for additional support.
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Foot Care Practices: Incorporate stretching exercises for your feet, calves, and legs into your daily routine, especially before and after your shifts. This can help alleviate tension and improve circulation.
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Pain Management: Since ibuprofen hasn’t provided relief, consider alternating with ice therapy. Apply ice packs to your feet for about 15-20 minutes after work to help reduce inflammation.
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Rest and Elevation: When resting, elevate your feet to reduce swelling and discomfort. Try to take short breaks during your shift to sit down and relieve pressure on your feet if possible.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms over the next week. Note any increase in pain levels or new symptoms.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If your pain continues or worsens despite these adjustments, or if you notice additional symptoms (such as swelling or changes in foot appearance), it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can offer more specific diagnoses and treatment options tailored to your situation.
Your discomfort is real and valid, and I encourage you to prioritize self-care for your feet while also being vigilant about symptoms that may require more professional input. Let me know if you have any more questions or need further assistance!
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