When the flexors of the toes aren't properly engaging, a common result is rigidity of the midfoot.
This can certainly show as foot pain, but the midfoot rigidity often manifests as knee or hip pain as well.
The weakness of the toe flexors is commonly due to restriction of the soft tissues near the heel and overloading/weakness of Flexor Digitorum Longus in the calf.
So if you struggle with 'toe-off' when walking, this could be the reason.