Whether you’re an avid runner, a weekend walker, or just getting back into a fitness routine, your feet take the brunt of your activity. And according to Dr. Bradford Mitchell, a fellowship trained sports medicine specialist at Center for Sports Medicine & Orthopaedics, they often don’t get the attention they deserve.
“Most people at some point in time in their life will get plantar fasciitis,” says Dr. Mitchell. “There’s actually a version we see in teens from a growth plate in the heel, and the adult version can impact people well into their 70s. It’s incredibly common—and it can be incredibly frustrating.”
Dr. Mitchell leads CSMO’s Urgent + Ortho Walk-In Clinic in North Georgia, where he sees everything from acute injuries to nagging overuse issues. And when it comes to foot pain, he says it’s often not just about the foot. “I do see a fair number of folks who have a problem that starts in one place—like the heel—and then because they push through it, they compensate and start having problems in their knees, hips, or back.”
The Right Shoes (and Socks) Matter
Dr. Mitchell is quick to point out that shoe selection is about more than just picking a name-brand. “Not every shoe works for every foot shape,” he explains. “Stores like FrontRunner or Fast Break can help fit you with the right shoes for your foot. That’s a conversation I have with patients every day.”
And don’t overlook your socks, either. Moisture-wicking materials can help keep feet dry and reduce the risk of irritation or infection—especially for runners and athletes.
Overuse Injuries: Know the Signs
When people ramp up their activity levels—like many do in spring and summer—it’s easy to overdo it. “Training errors are a big category of what causes overuse injuries,” says Dr. Mitchell. “Whether it’s doing the wrong kind of exercise, or just doing too much too quickly, it can create inflammation, especially in people with wear and tear later in life.”
Even activities like walking on an incline treadmill or biking can trigger foot pain or irritation if your form or gear is off. “Some injuries can sneak up on you, and by the time you realize something’s wrong, you’ve been compensating for weeks.”
Don’t Ignore That Numbness
Dr. Mitchell also spoke about nerve-related foot issues, including tarsal tunnel syndrome and foot drop. “When patients describe burning, tingling, or numbness, that’s often a sign a nerve is misfiring,” he says. “Foot drop, for example, is usually caused by nerve damage in the leg or lower back—and it’s something that needs medical evaluation.”
Support, Stretching & Smart Recovery
For those with flat feet or high arches, inserts or orthotics may be part of the solution. And regardless of your foot type, rest, proper stretching, and a gradual return to activity are key. “People often want to jump back into what they love once they feel a little better,” says Dr. Mitchell. “But that last phase of recovery—where you ease back in—is just as important as the first. That’s something we can help guide you through.”
When to Seek Help
Got a nagging pain or sudden discomfort that won’t go away? That’s what CSMO’s Urgent + Ortho Walk-In Clinics are for. “We’re here for more than just broken bones and sprains,” says Dr. Mitchell. “Overuse injuries, joint issues, foot and ankle pain—if it’s limiting your activity, let us take a look.”
Visit CSMO’s Urgent + Ortho Walk-In Clinic
No appointment necessary. Get seen quickly for urgent orthopaedic concerns at one of our walk-in clinics. Click here for hours and locations.
Bradford Mitchell, MD
Sports Medicine & Nonoperative Orthopaedic Specialist
Don’t let pain slow you down. Visit our Urgent + Ortho Walk-In Clinic and get expert care, fast. Your feet (and knees, hips, and back) will thank you.
