Step Away from Foot Pain: Causes, Treatments, and When to See a Specialist in Mason City

June 20, 2025

If foot pain is slowing you down, you’re not alone. Nearly 8 out of 10 Americans experience foot pain at some point in their lives—yet many delay getting help. At Mason City Clinic, our foot and ankle specialists see patients every day who have gone weeks, months, or even years enduring unnecessary discomfort. The good news? Most types of foot pain are highly treatable—and relief may be easier than you think.

Common Causes of Foot Pain

Your feet are complex structures made up of 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. With that much going on, it’s no surprise that foot pain can stem from many different conditions. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Plantar Fasciitis

This is the leading cause of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia—the thick band of tissue connecting your heel to your toes—becomes inflamed. People with flat feet, high arches, or jobs that require long periods of standing are especially prone.

2. Bunions and Hammertoes

Misalignments of the bones in the foot can cause painful deformities like bunions and hammertoes. These conditions tend to get worse over time and often cause discomfort while walking or wearing shoes.

3. Arthritis

Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the foot joints, leading to chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

4. Neuropathy

Tingling, burning, or numbness in the feet may be a sign of peripheral neuropathy—a condition often linked to diabetes. Left untreated, it can lead to serious complications.

5. Stress Fractures and Overuse Injuries

Runners and active individuals are especially vulnerable to tiny cracks in the bones of the feet caused by repetitive stress. These injuries require rest and sometimes medical intervention to heal properly.

When Should You See a Podiatry Specialist?

If you’re dealing with foot pain that:

• Lasts more than a week
• Interferes with walking or standing
• Involves swelling, redness, or warmth
• Is accompanied by numbness or tingling
  …it’s time to see a specialist.

The podiatry team at Mason City Clinic uses state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans to help patients get back on their feet—literally.

Treatment Options for Foot Pain

Depending on the underlying cause, treatment may include:

• Custom Orthotics – Supportive shoe inserts tailored to your foot’s unique structure
• Physical Therapy – Targeted stretches and exercises to improve strength and flexibility
• Corticosteroid Injections – Reduce inflammation and provide fast pain relief
• Medications – Anti-inflammatory or neuropathy medications when needed
• Surgical Options – In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to correct deformities or relieve pressure on nerves or joints

At Mason City Clinic, we believe in conservative treatment first, with surgery as a last resort.

Home Remedies That Can Help

While it’s important to get a professional diagnosis, there are things you can do at home to relieve minor foot pain:

• Stretch regularly, especially your calves and arches
• Use ice packs to reduce inflammation
• Wear supportive shoes—ditch the flip-flops!
• Try Epsom salt soaks for tired, aching feet
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your feet

Why Choose Mason City Clinic for Foot and Ankle Care?

At Mason City Clinic, our podiatry team provides comprehensive foot and ankle care right here in North Iowa. We understand how frustrating foot pain can be—whether you’re a farmer, nurse, runner, or retiree. That’s why we offer both nonsurgical and advanced surgical options tailored to your needs.

Our specialists work closely with your primary care provider and other departments within the clinic, including orthopedics, vascular care, and physical therapy, to ensure coordinated, whole-person care.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

Don’t let foot pain keep you from living an active, comfortable life. Whether you’re dealing with heel pain, bunions, or something more serious, the team at Mason City Clinic is here to help.