Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional for advice specific to your condition. © 2026 Better Physiotherapy Bundoora.
The foot contains 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments — all working together to absorb millions of steps per year. When something goes wrong, the impact on daily life can be significant. Physiotherapy provides effective, evidence-based treatment for the full spectrum of foot pain.
Heel Pain
Plantar fasciitis is the most common foot condition in adults. It causes sharp, stabbing pain under the heel — worst with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged sitting. A progressive calf and plantar fascia loading program, combined with load management, resolves 80–90% of cases within 3–6 months.
Ball of Foot Pain (Metatarsalgia)
Pain under the metatarsal heads (ball of the foot) has several causes: overloading of specific metatarsals, Morton's neuroma (nerve entrapment between the 3rd and 4th toes — produces burning or electric pain that extends into the toes), and sesamoiditis (inflammation of the two small bones under the big toe joint). Management includes metatarsal padding, footwear modification, and activity adjustment.
Inner Ankle and Arch Pain
Posterior tibial tendinopathy — overuse of the main tendon supporting the arch — is increasingly common and often leads to progressive arch collapse if not treated. A physiotherapy loading program for tibialis posterior, combined with supportive orthotics during the rehab phase, produces excellent outcomes. Tarsal tunnel syndrome (nerve compression at the inner ankle) causes burning and numbness into the sole and is treated with neural mobilisation and off-loading.
Outer Ankle Pain
Peroneal tendinopathy causes pain along the outer ankle and foot — common in runners and following ankle sprains. Treatment mirrors other tendinopathies: progressive loading, load management, and addressing contributing biomechanical factors.
Foot Pain Treatment at Better Physiotherapy Bundoora
We diagnose and treat the full spectrum of foot conditions at our Bundoora clinic. We can also refer for imaging, custom orthotics, and podiatry where appropriate. Call (03) 9467 6900 or book online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common foot conditions treated with physiotherapy?
Plantar fasciitis (inferior heel pain, worse in the morning), metatarsalgia (pain under the ball of the foot from overloading the metatarsal heads), Morton's neuroma (burning or electric pain between the 3rd and 4th toes), posterior tibial tendinopathy (inner ankle pain and arch collapse), peroneal tendinopathy (outer ankle pain in runners), sesamoiditis (pain under the big toe joint), and foot osteoarthritis.
Do I need orthotics for foot pain?
Not always. Orthotics can be helpful for specific conditions — particularly posterior tibial tendinopathy, pes planus (flat feet) causing overload, and metatarsalgia. However, for many foot conditions (including plantar fasciitis), a structured strengthening and loading program is more effective long-term than passive orthotic support. A physiotherapist will advise on whether orthotics are appropriate for your specific presentation.
Can foot pain come from somewhere else?
Yes. Nerve-related foot pain (burning, tingling, numbness) can originate from the lumbar spine, tarsal tunnel (tibial nerve compression at the ankle), or common peroneal nerve. A thorough physiotherapy assessment will examine the lumbar spine and neural pathways alongside the foot itself to ensure treatment targets the right structure.
What footwear is best for foot pain?
Footwear advice is condition-specific. Generally, shoes with adequate heel cushioning, mid-foot support, and a wide toe box are beneficial. Avoiding flat-soled shoes (ballet flats, bare feet on hard floors) is helpful for plantar fasciitis. Narrow, pointed-toe shoes worsen Morton's neuroma. A physiotherapist will give footwear-specific advice for your condition.
Ashley Haleel
Physiotherapist & Owner — Better Physiotherapy Bundoora