It’s the end of the day, you’ve finally sat down to relax — and suddenly, your feet start to ache or throb. Sound familiar?
Many people experience foot pain at night, even if they didn’t notice much discomfort during the day. The pain can range from dull soreness to sharp, burning sensations that make it hard to sleep.
At Complete Feet in Hoover, AL, we see this symptom often — and in most cases, it’s a sign that your feet are working harder than they should. Here’s what may be causing your nighttime foot pain and what you can do about it.
Common Causes of Foot Pain at Night
1. Plantar Fasciitis
This is one of the most common reasons for foot pain, especially near the heel or arch. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that supports your arch. When it becomes irritated or inflamed, pain often appears after periods of rest — like when you first wake up or lie down at night.
2. Nerve Irritation or Neuropathy
A burning or tingling pain at night may be related to nerve compression or neuropathy. This can happen from diabetes, circulation issues, or tight footwear that puts pressure on the nerves in your feet.
3. Poor Circulation
When your circulation slows down at night, your feet may not get enough blood flow, leading to throbbing or cramping sensations. Elevating your legs slightly and staying active during the day can help, but proper support is key.
4. Flat Feet or High Arches
When your foot structure isn’t balanced, the muscles and ligaments in your feet work overtime. At night, when those tissues finally relax, inflammation and tension can cause aching or soreness to flare up.
5. Unsupportive Footwear
Wearing unsupportive shoes all day — or walking barefoot at home on hard floors — adds stress to the arches, heels, and joints. Over time, that stress shows up as fatigue and pain once you rest.
How to Relieve Foot Pain at Night
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Stretch before bed – Gentle calf and arch stretches can relax tight muscles.
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Use ice or a massage ball – Applying cold therapy or rolling your arch can reduce inflammation.
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Wear supportive shoes indoors – Avoid walking barefoot on tile or hardwood.
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Elevate your feet slightly – Improves circulation and reduces swelling.
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Consider custom orthotics – The most effective long-term solution for correcting foot mechanics and preventing recurring pain.
How Custom Orthotics Can Help
Custom orthotics address the underlying cause of nighttime foot pain — not just the symptoms. By supporting the arch, stabilizing the heel, and aligning your entire foot, orthotics help your muscles rest naturally and reduce stress on the plantar fascia and nerves.
At Complete Feet, our orthotics are made from precise impressions (not foot scans), ensuring the best fit and long-term comfort. Patients often tell us their pain decreases not only during the day but also at night once their feet are properly supported.
Sleep Better. Move Better. Feel Better.
If foot pain keeps you awake or makes mornings miserable, don’t ignore it. The sooner you address the cause, the faster you’ll get lasting relief.
Call 205-822-1606 today to schedule your foot evaluation at Complete Feet in Hoover, AL — and start sleeping pain-free again.
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