What Causes Pain in the Bottom of the Foot?

There are four primary causes of plantar foot pain:

1. Individuals who frequently engage in intense walking or sprinting may subject their feet—particularly the Achilles tendon and muscles—to prolonged or excessive physical stress. Over time, this cumulative fatigue can lead to inflammation and subsequent plantar pain.

2. People who regularly wear rigid-soled or high-heeled shoes experience greater impact forces and reduced shock absorption while walking, placing increased pressure and tension on the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon. To mitigate this, it is advisable to select footwear with good arch support and thicker, softer soles to better absorb impact. Additionally, keeping a pair of lightweight, flat shoes or slippers at the office for occasional use can help relieve foot strain.

3. Individuals with higher body weight—especially those who are overweight or obese—are more susceptible to foot injury during physical activity. Their feet bear significantly greater mechanical loads, and restricted ankle joint mobility further diminishes natural shock absorption capacity.

4. Older adults: With advancing age, the elasticity and flexibility of the plantar fascia gradually decline, increasing the risk of microtears during physical activity. To minimize injury risk, older adults should perform thorough stretching before and after exercise and incorporate targeted exercises into daily routines to strengthen and enhance the flexibility of the foot muscles and fascia.