Foot Pain First Thing in the Morning? Here’s What It Could Mean

Wake Up, Stand Up… and Ouch!
If you feel a sharp, stabbing pain in your heel or arch when you take your first steps out of bed, you’re not alone. Morning foot pain is a common issue — and it’s often a sign of an underlying condition that shouldn’t be ignored.

What Causes Foot Pain in the Morning?

This is inflammation of the thick band of tissue (plantar fascia) that runs along the bottom of your foot. It becomes tight overnight and stretches painfully with those first few steps.Typical Signs:
- Pain in the heel or arch, especially after rest
- Feels worse in the morning, improves with movement
- Tenderness when pressing on the heel

2. Flat Feet or Poor Arch Support
If your arches collapse when you walk or stand, it strains the muscles and ligaments in your feet — leading to stiffness and pain after inactivity.

3. Achilles Tendonitis
Tightness in the Achilles tendon (at the back of the ankle) can cause pain near the heel, especially after sleeping or long periods of rest.

4. Improper Footwear
Wearing non-supportive shoes or walking barefoot on hard floors can increase pressure on your feet, especially first thing in the morning.

How Physiotherapy Can Help
At Aurika Wellness, we treat morning foot pain by targeting the root cause, not just the symptoms. A typical physiotherapy plan may include:
✅ Manual therapy to release tight fascia and tendons
✅ Targeted stretching for the calves, plantar fascia, and foot muscles
✅ Strengthening exercises for foot and ankle stability
✅ Taping techniques or orthotic advice for arch support
✅ Education on footwear and daily habits

Simple Tips for Relief at Home
1. Stretch your calves and arches before getting out of bed
2. Roll a frozen water bottle or tennis ball under your foot
3. Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces
4. Wear supportive shoes with arch support throughout the day
5. Warm up your feet with light ankle circles and toe curls

When to See a Physiotherapist
You should seek professional help if:
1. Pain lasts more than a few weeks
2. It affects your walking or work
3. There’s swelling or redness
4. You notice pain spreading to the ankle or leg

Start Your Day Without Foot Pain
At Aurika Wellness, we offer evidence-based, hands-on care to help you walk pain-free again. Let’s get to the root of your foot pain and restore your comfort.

📍 Located in Mississauga
📞 Call us at 905-466-4169
🌐 Book your visit at www.aurikawellness.ca