Why do I feel extremely tired in my feet every day?

Sep 30, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, feeling unusually tired in the feet every day may be caused by prolonged standing or walking, wearing ill-fitting shoes, plantar fasciitis, lower extremity varicose veins, lumbar disc herniation, or other conditions. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Daily foot care is important; avoid maintaining the same posture for extended periods, and gently massage the foot muscles before bedtime.

Generally, feeling unusually tired in the feet every day may be caused by prolonged standing or walking, wearing ill-fitting shoes, plantar fasciitis, lower extremity varicose veins, lumbar disc herniation, and other conditions. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Prolonged standing or walking: Maintaining a standing or walking posture for extended periods keeps the foot muscles in a constant state of tension. Once the muscles become fatigued, a feeling of tiredness in the feet occurs. Daily activities should include limiting standing and walking duration; sitting to rest for 10–15 minutes every hour is advised. Elevating the feet during rest can help improve blood circulation.

2. Ill-fitting shoes: Wearing shoes that are the wrong size or have soles that are too soft or too hard can lead to uneven pressure distribution on the feet, increasing foot strain and resulting in fatigue. Shoes should be replaced with properly sized ones that offer adequate support and cushioning. Avoid wearing high heels or flat shoes for long walks.

3. Plantar fasciitis: This condition is often caused by repeated microtrauma to the plantar fascia. Inflammation can lead to foot pain and fatigue, particularly worsening upon waking in the morning or after prolonged inactivity. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as celecoxib capsules, diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, or ibuprofen sustained-release capsules to relieve pain.

4. Lower extremity varicose veins: Due to factors such as venous valve insufficiency and weakened vein walls, blood flow back from the lower limbs becomes obstructed, leading to blood pooling in the legs. This causes symptoms like heaviness, swelling, and fatigue in the feet. Patients may take medications such as micronized purified flavonoid fraction tablets, diosmin tablets, or calcium dobesilate capsules as directed by a physician to promote venous return.

5. Lumbar disc herniation: When a herniated disc in the lower spine compresses nerve roots, it can cause radiating pain, numbness, and weakness in the lower limbs, leading to a sensation of fatigue in the feet. Patients may follow medical recommendations to use neurotrophic and analgesic medications such as mecobalamin tablets, vitamin B1 tablets, or Yaotongning capsules.

Daily foot care is important. Avoid maintaining the same posture for long periods, and gently massage the foot muscles before bedtime. Prioritize comfort and functionality when choosing footwear. Allow the feet to rest promptly after exercise or prolonged walking to reduce strain.