Survey: More than 3-in-4 Americans experience foot pain

WASHINGTON — The American Podiatric Medical Association on Monday reported that while 77% of Americans experienced foot pain, only a third of them sought care from a podiatrist. 

Half of all adults said that foot pain had restricted their activities — like walking, exercising, working or playing with grandchildren — in some way. For those with chronic foot pain, that number jumps to 83%. People noted they would exercise more (39%) and participate in more activities (41%) if it weren't for their foot pain.

"It's not surprising to see how many people are affected by foot pain, when survey results show that we view our feet as the least important body part in terms of our overall health and well-being," stated APMA president Frank Spinosa. "Our feet are literally and figuratively the furthest things from our minds."

While foot ailments are widespread, familiarity and experience with the podiatrists who treat them is considerably lower. Most adults would speak with their primary care physician (60%) or do a Web search (48%) to answer questions about foot health before considering a visit to a podiatrist.  

The study surveyed 1,000 US adults ages 18 years and older.