Getting out of bed is hard enough...
Foot pain first thing in the morning makes it even harder. Painful feet first upon waking is one of the most common complaints podiatrists get. So, what gives? Why do your feet hurt in the morning?
Foot pain first thing in the morning is an early sign of plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot, tightens up as you sleep. When you first stand up, the fascia stretches out and causes pain.
Your plantar fascia is a band of tissue that runs from your heel to the base of your metatarsals. Plantar fasciitis refers to inflammation of this thick band of tissue, and tiny tears can also cause pain.
Many people simply accept that their feet hurt in the morning and will often forget their pain as the plantar fascia stretches throughout the day. But heel pain is never normal! And if your feet hurt first thing in the morning, it is only a matter of time before they hurt all the time and eventually keep you from doing the things you enjoy.
How to Treat Feet That Hurt in the Morning
One of the most common treatment methods for plantar fasciitis is a stretching splint, also known as a night splint. This device can be dispensed by our office and will help to keep your fascia stretched out when you sleep or even as you sit in front of the TV. By not giving your plantar fascia the opportunity to tighten up, it has a higher likelihood of healing, inflammation should begin to decrease, and you can start waking up pain-free.
A bonus? No surgery is required. Custom orthotics are also an excellent option for treating plantar fasciitis.