The bottom of your foot may hurt when you put pressure on it due to several common causes. The most frequent cause is plantar fasciitis, which is inflammation of the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue running from your heel to your toes. This condition causes stabbing or aching pain, especially near the heel, which tends to be worse with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of standing or sitting. Other causes include metatarsalgia (pain in the ball of the foot), Morton's neuroma (nerve irritation), stress fractures, flat feet, or wearing poorly fitting shoes. Risk factors for plantar fasciitis and similar conditions often involve activities with high impact on the foot, foot structure abnormalities (flat feet or high arches), excess weight, and improper footwear. To relieve or prevent this pain, it is important to wear supportive shoes, avoid high-impact activities temporarily, consider using orthotic inserts, and perform stretching exercises for the calves and the plantar fascia. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications may also help reduce pain and swelling. If pain persists for more than a couple of weeks, worsens, or is severe, consulting a healthcare professional or a podiatrist is advised to get a precise diagnosis and tailored treatment plan. This pain should not be ignored, especially if it interferes with walking or daily activities, as early treatment can prevent it from becoming chronic and more difficult to treat.