What Is MSK Pain and Why Does It Often Start in the Feet or Ankles?

Musculoskeletal (MSK) pain is one of the most common types of discomfort people experience—but many don't realise it often begins in the feet or ankles. From a dull ache after standing too long to a sharp pain that disrupts your walk, MSK issues in the lower limbs can affect everything from posture to mobility.

So, what exactly is MSK pain, and why do our feet and ankles bear the brunt of it? Let’s break it down.

What Is MSK Pain?

MSK pain refers to pain that affects the muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, or tendons. It can occur in any part of the body, but the feet and ankles are especially vulnerable due to the sheer amount of stress they absorb daily.

You might feel MSK pain as:

• Aching or stiffness

• Sharp or burning pain

• Swelling or tenderness

• Limited range of motion

• Weakness or instability

It may be caused by injury, overuse, inflammation, or age-related wear and tear.

Why the Feet and Ankles?

Our feet and ankles carry the entire weight of our bodies and are in constant motion. Whether you’re walking, running, or just standing, your lower limbs are working hard to keep you balanced and moving.

Here are a few reasons why MSK pain often begins here:

• Repetitive stress: Daily movement, especially on hard surfaces, puts pressure on bones and soft tissues.

• Foot structure issues: Flat feet, high arches, or misalignments can lead to uneven weight distribution.

• Poor footwear: Ill-fitting or unsupportive shoes can cause strain over time.

• Sports or work demands: Athletes and people in physical jobs are more prone to overuse injuries.

• Underlying conditions: Arthritis, plantar fasciitis, or tendonitis often begin with subtle pain in the feet or ankles.

Common MSK Conditions That Affect the Feet and Ankles

• MSK pain in the lower limbs can be the result of several common conditions, including:

• Plantar fasciitis: Heel pain caused by inflammation of the tissue under the foot.

• Achilles tendinopathy: Pain at the back of the heel due to overuse of the Achilles tendon.

• Shin splints: Pain along the shin bone, often linked to poor foot mechanics.

• Arthritis: Can affect joints in the foot and ankle, causing stiffness and swelling.

• Flat feet or overpronation: These structural issues can lead to long-term joint and muscle strain.

When to Seek Help from a Podiatrist

If you're feeling consistent pain in your feet or ankles, it may not go away on its own. Seeing a podiatrist can help you understand what’s really going on.

At our Foot Clinic Dublin 4, we specialise in identifying the root causes of MSK pain. We use gait analysis, foot assessments, and medical history to tailor a treatment plan that works for you.

Treatment might include:

• Custom orthotics for support and realignment

• Footwear advice

• Strengthening and stretching programmes

• Manual therapies or joint mobilisation

• Referral for imaging or further diagnostics if needed

Don't Ignore the Signs

Foot and ankle pain might seem minor at first, but over time it can lead to compensations in your knees, hips, or back. Early treatment can prevent long-term complications and help restore normal movement and comfort.

At Mary Moore Podiatry, we provide caring and professional support to help you get back on your feet—literally. If you're in the Dublin 4 area and dealing with MSK pain, let’s talk.