Pain on the top of your foot can be excruciating, making it difficult or impossible to walk even a few steps.
Assuming there is no visible injury, and you can’t attribute the pain to falling, twisting your ankle, barefoot running, or dropping furniture on your foot, the cause could be anything from an ingrown toenail to Gout. A podiatrist would have to do a thorough examination to determine the specific cause, but here are the most common reasons you might have pain in the top of your foot.
Nerve Entrapment
Your shoes have quite an affect on the health of your foot. Shoes that are too tight, including athletic footwear, can cause Nerve Entrapment – also known as a “pinched nerve”. Repeated pressure on one area irritates the nerve and can cause a surprisng amount of pain. Ice, rest, and a change to less constricting footwear should resolve the pain.
Midtarsal fault
The arches in your feet are meant to absorb the shock of running, walking, and standing. When the arches fall and you suffer with flat feet, the tarsal bones can become compressed, which leads to damaged joints, bone spurs, and irritation. The top of your foot may be slightly swollen, have red spots, and pain will increase with activity. Improper footware is one of the main causes of this condition.
Metatarsal Stress Fracture
Stress on the metatarsal bones (the five long bones in the front of the foot) can cause tiny cracks in the bones. This is a very common injury for athletes, dancers, and those who return to exercising after a long layoff.
Extensor Tendonitis
The Extensor Tendons lie just under the skin on the top of the foot. Their job is to pull the toes up away from the ground, and when they become irritated, the pain can be excruciating and often confused with a fracture. The most frequent cause of this complaint is once again, footwear that’s too tight.
Other reasons for pain in the top of the foot may include
- Bone spurs
- Sprain
- Ganglion Cyst
- Aging (arthritis)
- Hammertoes
- Gout
Pain on the top of the foot could indicate a mild irritation to your nerves or tendons from tight shoes, or a more serious condition. If rest, ice, and over the counter anti-inflammatory medications do not relieve the symptoms, call podiatrists at PA Foot and Ankle Associates for an immediate examination. We will determine the cause of your pain and create a customized treatment plan for you.
PA Foot and Ankle Associates 
Ok I read through a lot of comments and can’t really find one like mine except for Jen. I woke up a couple nights ago to use the bathroom and literally fell because the pain was so bad. I can’t walk without limping really bad if I move my toes sharp pain if I move my foot at all really it throbs. Any help would be great. Thanks. Brandon
We have a wealth of information on our website and have compiled an index of all the common foot & ankle issues on one page. You can access the info. by clicking here.
I was playing football today and I got studded on the top outside of my left foot. Since then it has been hurting but the pain is worsened if I move my ankle. When I move my ankle it’s not my ankle that hurts but where I got studded. Also, I can’t walk on my toes, I can only walk when I am completely flat footed. Does anyone know why and should I go and see a doctor? Thanks in advance
We have a page dedicated to sports injuries on our website. You can access the information by clicking here. You may find the answers you are looking for there. If you are still experiencing pain, we would suggest you see a foot & ankle specialist for an evaluation of your injury.
I woke up today with a severe pain on the top of my right foot in front of the toes. It hurts to walk or stand and wrapping with an ace bandage seems to alleviate some of the pain. The pain is most severe when pointing my toes upward or having them parallel with the floor. There is no swelling at the moment and nothing has really changed in my daily activities either. Thanks for any help.
Adam: Your pain could be caused by a number of things: a fracture, overuse injury, even arthritis. Hard to tell without more specific information. But pain is never normal, so we suggest that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
The top of my foot like where you bend it just barely under the ankle gives me such throbbING pain only at night once I’m up pain is gone only when I go to bed it’s been happening for years it comes and goes but now has been consistent all week. I don’t recall ever breaking my ankle or any other injuries never seen a Dr cause it always goes away in morning do you have any suggestions what it may be and what I could do for it
Ericka: We’re surprised that you haven’t sought a medical opinion if this has been happening for years. Clearly your pain is significant. Patients are frequently unaware of causing any injury to their foot, but when pain is present, you have an injury. Without further info, we would guess that at some point you damaged a tendon which didn’t properly heal, and as you use it, the tendon becomes irritated, causing pain. You really should see a podiatrist for an assesment of your condition.
The top of my left foot hurts to touch in the middle of my foot but no marks or damage it hurts to the slightest touch but once touched you can move over the pain and it stops
Jason: Not sure what you mean by that. “hurting to the touch” could indicate anything from irritation from a shoe to a fracture.
I have been experiencing pain at the top of my right foot to my big toe bone. It has been hurting since just over a week now and i cannot think of what i have done to it but is just getting worse to the point that I am limping when I walk. There is no obvious symptoms (no bruising or swelling) and it doesn’t hurt when sitting or standing only when walking. I usually put off going to the doctors as it is normally a waste of time but I’m not sure whether to leave it or go to the doctors.
Lauren: The area of pain you decribe is along the largest metatarsal bone, so you may have fractured that bone in some way without realizing it (happens all the time). We suggest that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
I fell off a chair while hanging things on the wall and I caught myself by landing rather hard on my right foot. It felt okay when it happened but it’s been 4 days of icing and I have pain on the top of the foot right toward the inside of the foot along the cuneiform bones and it hurts to walk. Also to the touch. I’m worried I hurt it but my mom’s a nurse and says i’m probably fine
If you still have pain, and especially if it’s sore to the touch, you may have fractured your foot. Please see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
Can foot pads correct a tailor bunion or just surgery. Mine does not poke out like a regular bunionette but the pain is on the top. The X-ray showed the 5 th bone not inline with the other bones. My dr said it’s pretty much my call to do
Kent: A pad cannot correct the tailor’s bunion, it can just reduce the irritation and soreness. Only surgery can correct it.
I have pain on top on 5th bone found out its a bunionette also called tailor bunion. It’s on top rather than side so it’s hard to pad so I guess the doctor is going to cut the bone to get it back to normal
Kent: What is your question? Yes, a Tailor’s Bunion has to be surgically corrected.
I have had extreme pain on the top of my left foot on the outside from my ankle to right before my toes. It gets to the point that I have major problems even trying to stand at times. I have seen doctors but none can seem to explain to me what is wrong. I have tried resting it and taking medicine however the pain at times will just get worse. Im at my last straw as to trying to figure out what is wrong with my foot.
Arnie: Have you seen a podiatrist? They’re the most qualified physician to treat your problem.
I have severe pain in my right foot at the top and my little toe I’ve tried every thing but nothing helps it’s making me sick. Please help
Carol:
Your description doesn’t give us much to go on. Have you seen a podiatrist?
Not a graceful story… Three baking sheets that were nestled inside themselves fell from approximately 2 feet and hit the top of my foot. They fell and impacted my foot on their side. I immediately got a purple line on the top of my foot where the side of the pans hit and it started swelling. I iced it and elevated it and the swelling went down. It has been 2 days and it still hurts when I am walking or at rest. But I can’t tell if it’s just pain that is supposed to be there and will go away in time or if maybe something is fractured.
Joey: Pain is never “supposed” to be anywhere – it’s a sign that something is wrong. From what you describe, you could simply have soreness from where the baking sheets hit your foot, but they may also have caused a fracture. Give yourself another couple of days icing, elevating and resting whenever possible. Also use advil or aleve to manage the pain and help with reducing inflammation. If you still have pain after another 48 hours, please see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
While completing my normal boot camp, I had a pain start in the top of my foot between the 3rd and 4th metatarsals while skipping. I could do other exercises but skipping seemed to irritate. Then wearing shoes to work hurt the next day. I didn’t notice again until this weekend. Same pain but when walking and getting up from sitting. Tender to rub but no apparent swelling.
Amanda: That could be a nerve entrapment, or an overuse injury to the joints of the metatarsals. Rest your foot and ice it if possible for a few days. Use advil or aleve to manage the pain and internal inflammation. If your pain does not improve in a few days, please make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Wow, thank you for all of these replies! You are developing a veritable encyclopedia of pain on the top of the foot! My pain is on the right side of my right foot. When I take a step sometimes (but not always) it hurts as I move forward, the pain runs from the middle of the foot along the metatarsal (I think?- the top of the foot at least) up to my big toe. It is not swollen or tender to the touch (seems to rule out tendonitis or stress fracture?). This happened last year with the same symptoms at the same time (April), but it grew worse over a couple of weeks to the point where it hurt to take every step walking. It eventually went away on its own though, and I never had any swelling or tenderness to touch. I’m not at that point of pain yet, but do you have any idea what the problem could be? Also… do I have to stop running? It’s so nice outside right now! (Though I’m thinking maybe a cause is less-supportive shoes in the spring, and longer runs…) Thank you!
Caroline: If you have pain in your foot, you absolutely should stop running until the pain subsides. When you feel like running again, don’t jump right back into the training schedule you just stopped. Begin by walking and slowly – over a period of weeks – build back up to your usual training schedule. And if you experience any pain at all, rest and start over.
Our guess is that if you’re having the same pain in the same place as you did last year at this time, then you’re experiencing an overuse injury. Metatarsals, tendons, muscles and ligaments are getting overworked and are telling you to slow down. If you don’t, there’s a good chance they’ll give up and then you’ll be looking at a tendon tear or a stress fracture, which will sideline you the rest of teh year. You must build slowly into a training schedule to get your foot and ankle adjusted to the new demands.
Hi hoping you can advise, I started with pain on the top oft left foot yesterday when walking and has got increasingly worse today to the point of feeling physically sick with it, also hurts to bend and flex now, any advice to alleviate the pain and how long should I leave it before seeing a doctor, thank you in advance
Dawn: We’d bet money that you fractured your foot in some way. Please see a podiatrist immediately for treatment. Pain of that magnitude anywhere in your body should not be ignored.
Maybe you can help me.. The top of my left foot started hurting after a busy day and I thought it was from my shoes being tied too tight, but the problem has persisted for a couple months without those shoes. When resting, sometimes the top of my foot will throb, even in my sleep, but not always. A few times I could see the veins pop out, it became red and hot but only temporarily (just to the left of the middle of my left foot). Most of the time, my foot looks normal and just hurts when sitting. Once I stand up, the pain almost immediately goes away, and it feels like the muscles are spreading along with some popping throughout the foot (almost like the bones are going back in place or something). Standing relieves most of the pain and I can walk without problem. My toes have normal feeling and never hurt. I have been seeing a general physician who thought the pain was associated with my lower back pain, but I saw a physical therapist and when my back pain went away, the foot pain remained. I can stand without pain in my foot but my back will hurt. My back feels great when I sit, but my foot will hurt! I don’t wear heels, mostly sneakers, flats or padded flip-flops. I suppose a trip to the podiatrist is in order, but kind of want to know what I might be looking at. Thank you for your time.
Katrina: First of all, you should always see a podiatrist for any foot pain – they are specialists in toes, feet, ankles and lower legs and are the best qualified medical expert in this area. Pain in the heel or ankle area can sometimes be associated with back issues caused by compressed nerves, especially sciatica. But the pain in the region you describe is most likely caused by a foot injury and could be any one of a number of problems. You may have a nerve issue, or you may have damaged a tendon, which becomes painful after use. Your GP probably would have discovered a fracture, so that’s probably not the cause.
Please see a podiatrist at your earliest convenience, as your pain has been present far too long to be a minor issue.
I work 12 hour driving shifts in a dump truck so I am sitting at least 10 hours a day. I’ve had no recent injuries to my foot (3 fractures 20 years ago) but the other day my foot hurt in the middle of the night enough to wake me up. The pain comes from the top of the foot behind the big toe. When I touch the spot there is a super sharp pain. It aches enough that I am awakened at night by it.
Steve: If the area is painful to the touch, it would indicate a fracture or perhaps a nerve issue. It’s important that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
i went to the er with severe pain in my rt foot. they xrayed, told me it was degenerative arthritis and put me in a boot, to keep my bones from shifting. the paperwork they sent home with me is for a sprain and thats what my medical record states.
The top of my foot started hurting, mostly when I bend my big toe, last Saturday. I did not injure my foot that I know of. I am currently taking a beginners tap dance class and walk a lot as I am a college student. I have tried using ice on it but it only helps for a little while.
Are the tap shoes new shoes that you never wore before? They could be responsible for the soreness on the top of your foot – perhaps the leather is rubbing and irritating the skin. If that’s not the case, then we would look at the muscles in the foot which may be irritated from overuse. If you’re just beginning, you’re giving muscles you never used before a strong workout and they may be asking for a little rest. Try resting the foot whenever possible, and besides the ice, take advil or aleve to manage pain and inflammation.
My right foot only hurts when I touch it, the area is between the pinkie and the middle finger. I have this pain for like 7 months now , already had an ex ray and eco and the doctor couldnt find anything its so strange. I want to do some jogging but if I run that area touches the shoe and it hurts. Dont know what else I can do
I have tremedous pain on top of my foot at the bend, it is bad. It stays for a long while. Its been going on for a while. Plus the bottom of my feet ache something feirce from about middle up to my toes. My doctor has checked for diabetes. It also feels like heat. Can you please help me. I also went to a neuropathy dr. He took tests amd said he didnt find anything. Unless i am going crazy. My feet really hurt.
Mike: Yes, your “heat” symptom would suggest a neuropathy. But if the doctor found nothing, perhaps your pain is from an ankle injury, as you say it’s at the top where the foot meets the ankle. Pain in the ball of your foot could be a nerve problem called Morton’s Neuroma. Unfortunately, we can’t diagnose without an exam. Our best suggestion is to see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
I’ve had bunion surgery a long time ago on my left foot why am I starting to have serious pain there again and on the same foot my fourth toe hurts really bad and on the side of it right next to the fifth toe it’s numb and and then on my right foot I’ve got this spot that has already had surgery on it and they removed an inch an a half long root but it has come back again and is very painful my poor feet the right has had 5 surgery on it with one toe amputated all do to a bunion surgery done wrong please help me to find out what’s causing all my pain I can only be on my feet no more then 2 hours before they start hurting me
Cindaroo:
Wow, we’re sorry to hear about so much pain. You clearly have many complications not only from the botched surgery but perhaps other issues as well. Unfortunately, we cannot diagnose over the internet. Please see the best podiatric surgeon in your area to avoid further complications – not an orthopaedist or a general physician. Not slamming these professionals, but a podiatric surgeon is the best qualified to deal with your unique issues. Good luck.
The top middle part of my foot between the 3rd and 4th toe always has a sharp pain when I take a full step on it but after walking for about 6 minutes it numbs out and I don’t feel it but when I stop walking for about 2 minutes the pain comes back and repeats. When I rub the top part of my foot it’s always tender and feels like I’m rubbing a sore muscle and I also have pain when I bend my toes up in the same spot but if I pull them up with my hand I have no pain it’s strange. It’s been going on for about 2 to 3 weeks the pain is not getting worse or better any ideas?
Sal: There are a number of possibilities from the symptoms you decribe. You may have a stress fracture in one of the metatarsals; you may have injury to a nerve; or you may have fatigued metatarsal heads. If the pain has lasted 3 weeks, you absolutely must see a podiatrist for an evaluation, as the injury is not healing simply by resting your foot.
I’ve never broken my foot but my right foot hurts severely on the top. Only when I put pressure on it, walk or bend my toes upwards
Shannon: How do you know that you haven’t broken your foot? For many patients, how they fractured their foot is a complete mystery. There are may degrees of fractures and in many cases it’s not caused by dropping something on your foot, but by overuse – training or even walking too much on a foot that can’t keep up. Rest and ice the foot for a few days and use advil or aleve to manage the pain and inflammation. If your pain is still presnt after 3 days, please see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
I wore fins in the ocean and my feet were too big for them and so my toes were scrunched. It hurt a little while I was wearin them but when I took them off it got a lot worse. The top of my foot and big toe hurts to move and when I move my toes up and down it cracks. I’m in good shape and am right on target for my weight. I was wondering what you think this is? I have football practice 5 days a week and weights two days a week so I was wondering if I need to rest or not or I can still train.
Liam: It all depends on how much your feet were squeezed into the swim fins and how much smaller than your feet they were. Generally speaking, this might have caused some pain in your toes while you were wearing them, but there shouldn’t be any problems after 24-48 hours. If there is, the swim fins might have been a secondary cause of the problem, in that they aggravated an injury which was already present that you weren’t aware of.
If you’re experiencing pain, take a break from training and see a podiatrist for an evaluation. Athletes must take care of their feet, because a minor injury they don’t allow to heal can cause big problems later on.
So my the top and sides of my foot have a resting irritated burn/sting more often then not and random bouts of feeling like I am jamming a wedge through the bottom to the top and the pain takes my breath away. There is nothing that pops to mind as to why it started but it’s been over a month since the pain started flaring worse then usual and there is the barest of swelling to the top of my foot. I have no idea what I did but I wear very comfortable shoes why working and often go barefoot when not. I’m not sure how to treat it because wrapping it and icing it has not helped at all.
Stefanie: It sounds like you may have a problem with one of the nerves in your foot. That’s why icing and wrapping have done nothing to reduce the pain, and it also accounts for the burning sensation. Please see a podiatrist as soon as possible for an exam and treatment plan.
i kicked a soccer ball really hard with the top of my foot and i was bear footed and ever since it has hurt to walk on it and there is no swelling or bruising and it also hurts to point and flex my toes, what do i do and what happend?
Catherine: Even though there are no visible signs of damage, you most likely have a small fracture of one of the bones on your foot. You should see a podiatrist asap for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
I’ve been having pain on the top of my left foot, it also hurts to press down on the top part below my small toe and to the right of my ankle. I don’t remember bumping in to anything or any injury. I have a high arch and the only thing I can think of is that I have been wearing converse sneakers and lacing the shoelaces tight as maybe the problem. It hurts to walk and bend my toes up. Sometimes the pain is so bad I can feel it shoot up my leg and in my left arm and top of my left hand. I’m concerned about this and after reading other message boards worry about bloodclots. Any advice is appreciated.
Lisa: We wouldn’t jump to blood clots just yet. Your symptoms could describe anything from a fracture to an impacted nerve, and the only way to know for sure is to see a podiatrist for a diagnosis. If you believe that your shoes may be laced too tightly, by all means loosen them up. But that isn’t the entire problem (but may be a contributing factor).
I recently bought a new pair of sandals that are wedges and comfortable. The strap goes along the top of my foot. Although I didnt have any pain while wearing them, The day after I noticed my left foot had a bump on the top and there was some light blue discoloration by my toes. I wore gym shoes for the last two days and blue color has turned to dark bruising and there is still a bump on the top of my foot. My ankle is also a little swollen. I’m kind of concerned but figure it will go away. I’m icing it right now. Also in case this helps I was in a hot climate for vacation when it happened.
Kim: We’re concerned that you may have fractured a bone in your foot, considering the worsening discoloration. The bump on the top of your foot could be a separate injury, an irritation or cyst caused by the sanadal strap. The ankle swelling may be related to the discoloration in your foot. We highly advise you to see a podiatrist as soon as possible for an evaluation.
I am a nurse who recently picked up 12 hour shifts. I wear good sneakers but the top of my right foot really hurts. When I get out of bed and step on it for the first time in the morning the pressure of putting weight on it sends shooting pain on the mid to upper part of the top of my foot. It is on and off but when I go to work it hurts after being on it for hours and by the end of my shift my right ankle is swollen and a little red. I thought it would go away but it has been about three weeks now. I’m not sure what to do.
Alexa: Sounds like you have an overuse injury. This is common for people who have to be on their feet all day, as you do. The good news is, overuse injuries will heal on their own if you 1) stay off your feet as much as possible 2)use ice on the sore aree of the foot when resting 3) use advil or aleve to manage the pain and inflammation. If the foot still hurts after this home care, or if you cannot manage to rest the foot until it heals, please see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
when i finish work i have pain in the top part of my foot. it’s a little bit swollen and every time i put any pressure on it, it hurt’s like hell. when im not at work it hurt’s sometimes but no where near as bad. any ideas?
Linzi: We’re assuming that you’re on your feet a lot at work? If so, you’re probably suffering from what we call an “overuse” injury. Can’t say exactly where the problem is without an exam, but most likely you either have a small stress fracture somewhere in the top of your foot, or an irritation of the joints, tendons, or ligaments. Please see a podiatrist for a diagnosis. Until then, elevate the foot when it’s sore, and stay off of it whenever possible. Use ice and aleve or advil to control the pain and inflammation.
Hello. Im desperate… Im 48 . I fell and broke my Left foot, had no idea I had broken it. 2 years later, i could no longer stand the pain. I went to DR thats when. he found the break.. He re-broke the foot and put a plate in. This was wonderfull for the 8 weeks I was off. As soon as i went back to work. the pain was right back. I have had orthodics made. 4 times 2700.00$ not to mention the surgery costs. nothing works. Im now at a pain clinic getting shots in both feet. I am having just as much pain in the right foot as the left. I am in misery. Its affecting my work. my walking. my weight..MY LIFE !! All Dr,s so far have tried fixing the bones my DR now is trying the nerves ( nerve blocks.). Not really any relief there either.The numbness from the shot helps, but that wears off in about 8 hours. The pain pills help but not much. I have throbbing, stabbing, tingling, burning, and numbness in both feet. I was told my arches are falling if that helps, I have a raised knot on the top of the right foot size of a quarter around and about 1/4 in high. Very tender. I loosened my shoe strings put inserts in, bought expensive shoes. PLEASE HELP
Tammioka: Sorry to hear about your pain, that sounds excruciating. A couple of things could be going on, but first, are your doctors general physicians or podiatrists? If you haven’t seen a podiatrist please do so immediately, as they are the most qualified physician to diagnose what sounds like a very complicated condition. The next question is, are you overweight, obese or diabetic? That kind of consistent pain is unusual, but can be caused by signifciant weight problems, as when your feet just don’t get any relief from intense pressure. If you’re diabetic you may be developing – or have – diabetic peripheral neuropathy, a deterioration of the nerves caused by years of high blood sugar. And yes, falling arches could be causing your pain as well. If you’re diabetic AND your arches are falling, it may very well be a case of Charcot Foot disorder, a complication of diabetes in which the bones in your feet start to deteriorate from frequent fractures. We really can’t diagnose over the internet, so once again we recommend you see a podiatrist or podiatric surgeon at your earliest opportunity.
On 9/19/2013, I injured my foot when a ladder rung broke and I landed 18 inches on my foot akwardly. I have been seeing an orthopedic since injury and have had every scan and test out there with no diagnosis. The top of my left foot close to my ankle is in constant pain, swells, holds heat, and gets worse the more I walk, stand, and attempt any activity. Upon my last visit I was told I may have gout due to my blood uric acid level being 7.3. However, with all the information out there I am not convinced. I appreciate any feedback.
Cody: Wow, sorry for your pain – that sounds excruciating. Without an exam we can’t be sure, but we would guess that you have a fracture of one of the bones in the ankle and/or the top of your foot. Please see a podiatrist or podiatric surgeon for an evaluation. They are specialists in the foot and ankle – and only that – and they are best suited to diagnose a complex condition like yours. As far as the gout, we’d be very surprised if that was the cause of your pain, considering you injured yourself previous to this. Gout also typically appears first in the big toe, not the ankle.
I ran 8.5 miles in the rain and cold training for a marathon. Nothing different about my run except the constant attempt of trying to avoid puddles the entire time. This made me have to run in grass then concrete and on some slanted areas. I’ve ran 10+ miles before and never experienced this pain. For my left foot, the pain is on the top inside from my big toe to my ankle when the foot is flexed. For my right foot, the pain is on the top outside from small toe to ankle when i try walking on it. My run was Sunday 12/28 and the pain seams to be getting worse. My marathon is January 18th, will i be able to train for it?
Ana: Without an exam, we can’t advise you on if it’s safe to train or not. We can suggest a couple of possibilities, though. As the pain is in both feet, the first question we would ask is, are you running in a good pair of quaity athletic shoes that support your feet? We tend to get lazy about replacing our footwear – if you’re training on a daily basis your shoes should be replaced every 3 months. If the problem doesn’t lie with the shoes, and as the pain is in both feet, we would suggest that you have overuse injuries – your muscles, tendons, joint, bones, can’t keep up with your training regimen. The prescription is rest and a pain reliever like advil or aleve. If you continue to train on feet that are already causing you pain, they will get much worse and you may end up with a very serious injury. We suggest that you see a podiatrist in your area as soon as possible for an evaluation.
The top of my foot got a little puffy and when i touch the top of my foot near the toes especially between 2nd and 4th toe it hurts. It also hurts to walk. It all happened after standing up, the bottom of my foot hurted and than it seemed to travel to its current area after few days. Any ideas what happened?
Urszula: Your symptoms could describe a number of conditions, including fractured bone in your foot (metatarsals), or Morton’s Neuroma (http://pafootdoctors.com/mortons-neuroma/). have you dropped anything on your foot recently? Do you exercise a lot?
I have not dropped anything on my foot and i do not excercise. I always though if its a fractured bone my skin would be discolored. It looks like i might have a bump now on top of my foot though. Its only swollen and its hard to walk on. Also if i bend my middle toe towards the top of my foot i feel discomfort.
Urszula: We obviously can’t definitively diagnose your condition online – that requires an exam. Your pain and tenderness could be caused by something as simple as a ganglion cyst, but could also be a sprain or metatarsal fracture. The only way to know for sure is to see a podiatrist.
The side and top of my foot hurts after work if I walk or put pressure on it. The pain is gone in the morning but back every night after work for the past 2 weeks. There is no swelling. The pain is mostly on the side bone that’s in the center on the arch.
Ty: We assume you’re on your feet all day at work? It sounds like you have an overuse injury developing. This could be caused by being overweight, shoes which don’t support your feet correctly, or any number of other factors. First, buy shoes with excellent suport, such as a good pair of athletic shoes – wear them at work if possible. After work, rest and ice the sore foot and use advil or aleve to manage the pain. If the pain persists, please see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
I have a burning sensation on the top of my foot (bridge area), the pain on comes when bent certain angles, then over a couple minutes goes away. I show no signs of burising or swelling.
Chuck: The most common reason for burning sensations in the foot is neuropathy. Neuropathy is nerve damage caused by diabetes, trauma, alcoholism, and sometimes chemotherapy. If none of those causes fit your profile, it could also be caused by irritation to the nerve from another source. Please seek a consult with a podiatrist for a complete evaluation.
My pain seems trivial compared to most of the comments here, but I want to know how to prevent it going forward. I am in decent, though not great shape, 41yo, about 25 lbs over ideal weight, but I have weighed the same for 13 years. I took my daughter on a couple of college visits in a hilly region for 2 days, and now the front of both ankles is quite sore/tender. This seems to happen whenever I go for a moderate walk, as well. Stretching and rubbing hurt, but provide temporary relief. My feet are nearly flat, but I had my gait observed about 3 years ago and was told to get neutral or semi-supportive athletic shoes, as there was very little pronation. What could be the cause of this pain and, more importantly, how can I prevent it in the future?
Melanie:
Have you spoken with a podiatrist about having custom orthotics made? They are of great help to many patients. As we approach middle age, even if we’re not overweight, our bones, tendons, joints, etc., sometimes have a hard time keeping up. Additionally, arthritis begins to set in. Since your feet are flat, you have little in the way of support, which could be the whole probelm. Yes, a good pair of athletic shoes is a step in the right direction. But a good pair of athletic shoes plus a custom orthotic can shift weight off the probelm area and give it a better opportunity to heal.
Hi I’m a 60 yr old woman who has neuropothy in my legs from back injuries. The last few years I’ve been experiencing severe pain in the top of my feet. Sometimes it’s just one foot sometimes both anyway it wakes me from my sleep. If I get up and walk around it seems to get better so I assume it’s a circulation issue. I’ve been to a doctor about it and said my veins are fine but obviously they’re not! Can you suggest who to see our if it is circulatory. Thank you Sharon
Sharon: We’re sorry to hear about your discomfort. If you’ve been diagnosed with neuropathy, then we would assume the pain in your feet is a result of that. Getting up and moving around stimulates the nerve endings, which makes the pain subside (in your case). Please speak with a podiatrist about treatments for peripheral neuropathy in your feet – there are prescription medicines and other treatments which can reduce or eliminate your pain.
I went to bed last night fine but woke up in the middle of the night with a terrible pain in the top of my foot I didn’t do anything yesterday but have been getting back into gym the week before that. It hurts a lot whenever I walk and when I stretch my middle toes back. It also hurts when I apply medium pressure to the top of my foot. Please help.
Arnold.
Arnold: We assume that your pain is related to your new exercise routine. When we go back to the gym, especially if we were absent for a considerable amount of time, we tend to do too much too soon and muscles, joints, tendons, and bones can’t keep up. The result is stress injuries, which can be anything from tendinitis to stress fractures. Your symptoms can be attributed to any of these injuries, so please see a podiatrist for an evaluation. Until then, rest the foot, ice the sore area, and use advil or aleve to manage the pain.
I have been experiencing pain in my foot for the past three weeks. It started out more as an irritation (ball of my foot) but as the weeks have progressed I’ve discovered the pain is on the top of my foot between my third and fourth toes. It also hurts on the bottom of my foot same area but the pain is more noticeable on the top of my foot. No apparent swelling. No previous injury to my foot. Every so often when I take a step it is a throbbing pain. Moving my toes without bearing weight causes discomfort in that same area too. Suggestions?
CindyLou: It sounds like you may have Morton’s Neuroma, a condition of one of the nerves in your foot. You should see a podiatrist at your earliest convenience for a complete assessment. In the meantime, you can check out our post on Morton’s Neuroma.
Hi!
I had to work for 2 days on my feet (selling food products in a stall and couldn’t sit down, rested one day) then continued my exercise routine (plyometric running, circuit, running). After working out I found it hard to walk and the next day I saw the top of my foot swelling. Near the ankle. Hurts to the touch and hurts to walk. Initially I ignored it, thinking maybe it was just sore from training. It’s been a week and the pain is still there.
Is it possible that I may have broken a bone? I have no time to see the doctor and it’s worrying me because I have an ironman competition coming up.
Lauren: We suggest that you see a podiatrist immediately, especially if you want to keep training for your Ironman. We suspect that you either have a stress fracture of one of your metatarsals, have damaged a tendon, or have impacted the soft tissue near your ankle. Any of these may be caused by working your feet too hard in a training regimen, and they need proper treatment to heal 100%. You might want to read this post about training for a marathon and this one about the most common foot injuries for runners.
I’m 33 and have a pain on the top of my foot and front of my ankle when I walk. It’s not real bad or anything and the foot looks normal. But just enough pain that I notice it. I did a 23 mile hike Saturday so I’m pretty sure that’s what caused it. I’m a runner, so I’m wondering if I’m ok to run through the pain if it doesn’t get worse. Or if I should rest it for a week or two.
Matt: Never run through the pain, as it will aggravate your injury. Please rest it and then slowly work back up to your current training level.
I’m 33. Over the last few weeks, the top middle area of my right foot is horribly painful sometimes After sitting for 20+ minutes. I can’t put much weight on it for the first few steps, but after walking around for a minute or so, my foot feels fine. Btw I’m an active guy who has never had foot problems before. Suggestions, thoughts?
Nick: You may be suffering from metatarsalgia, a fatigue and irritation of the joints of the bones of your foot. Have you changed your exercise routine lately?
I’m 32 & I have a very similar effect to Nick. Whether its driving for an extended period of time of getting out of bed or just when ever I am off my feet for a little while and stand up the outside top of my mid foot hurts quite a bit. After I walk around a little bit, it goes away. But for those first steps I am limping like I stepped on a tack. No changes to exercise at all.
Matt: Hard for us to make a diagnosis online, as you need to be examined. Whenever and wherever pain occurs in your foot, it’s not the normal state of things. Play it safe and see a podiatrist for an examination.
Yesterday the front bottom of my foot started hurting due to walking which I’m not used to. I just started working out yesterday because I found out I’m overweight a few days ago. I am 19 years old I weigh 143 and I’m 5’3. How do I solve this problem? I really don’t want to stop exercising since I’m trying to lose weight… I also don’t have the money to go to a foot doctor and I don’t think I even need to go to one. The pain is in both feet in the same spot but my left foot hurts worse.
Brittany: We’re happy that you started an exercise program, as it’s critical for weight control. However, many people do too much too soon, and if we’ve been inactive for a long time, our bodies just can’t keep up. Most likely, the pain in your feet is from what we call “overuse” – tendons, bones, muscles, and joints become fatigued and then irritated, causing pain. If walking is causing pain, do you have access to a bicycle or stationary bike at a gym? Also, buy a pair of quality athletic shoes to exercise in – they’ll protect and support your feet, which will reduce or eliminate the overuse injury. To manage the pain, rest and elevate your feet, and take advil or aleve when necessary.
I am a 30 y/o female, 5’6″ and 155lbs. For the past year, I’ve had intermittent mild pain and stiffness/instability in one foot only. The location is on the top of the foot, right below where the ankle meets the foot, and slightly lateral.
It used to be that it would only be stiff and uncomfortable when taking the first few steps in the morning. Now, I’ve been icing it and resting it because the aching is increasing and occurs all day long. I’ve wrapped it at night a few times, thinking that I was aggravating it while moving around at Igbo, but that hasn’t made a difference.
The only thing that changed a year ago is that I quit equestrian sports. Is it possible that my calf muscle shortened, therefore causing stress on a tendon in the problem area? What can be done, aside from calf stretches (which haven’t been effective)?
I’ve hesitated to see a doctor because the pain is mild most days and I’m pretty sure that nothing was ever fractured. Honestly, it feels like tendonitis, but I am looking forward to your opinion.
M.A.: It certainly could be tendinitis, but as the pain is intermittent yet consistent, it could be the early stages of arthritis or some other kind of degenerative condition. It could also be an overuse injury of some sort – the possibilities are many. Please see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
Thank you.
Can someone please help me the pain on top of my right foot and the 3 last toes the side of my right foot to the ball to my ankle up the back calf of my leg to the back of my knee with so much pain why help. Angie
Angie:
Can you be a little more specific?
I twisted my ankle while I was walking with high heels. My ankle doesn’t hurt when I rotate it or move it to any side but it hurts when I walk. I had an ankle injury before but they don’t have to do with the symptoms I am experiencing now. Please help
Iona: We see so many patients who injure their feet from wearing high heels, we’ve lost count. First, stop wearing high heels until your ankle is healed, which will take about 4 weeks, assuming it’s a minor sprain. Wear a good pair of athletic shoes whenever possible, and if you can’t get away with that at work, wear flats. When you’re at home, rest, elevate, and ice the ankle, and use anti inflammatory medicine like advil or aleve to manage the pain. And since you have a history of ankle injuries, we recommend that you see a podiatrist asap to make sure you didn’t damage your ankle in some other way.
Hey, I’m Shelby, I just started varsity swimming 2 and half weeks ago. I’m 5 ft 112-115 lbs. about a week ago my left foot started really hurting on my metatarsals next to the phalanges by my two middle toes. It hurts when I try to walk but I can bend it back and forth , up and down just fine. It does hurt when I touch it thought. We do land training on Fridays and we run and do a good bit of leg and cardio work but I’m kinda used to doing workouts. Can you please help?
Shelby: If it hurts to the touch, chances are you have a minor fracture, a deep bruise (contusion) or some sort of overuse injury. For the next few days, elevate the foot when you’re at rest, ice the sore area, and use advil or aleve to manage the pain. If you don’t see some improvement after 3 days, please see a podiatrist for an evaluation. As you’re an athlete, it’s essential that you take care of your feet properly.
Thanks for the advice! I appreciate it! UPDATE: i went to my doctor and got an xray, they said my foot looked fine and that there was no fracture but it still hurts to walk on. i’ve been walking on the side of my left foot (which i know is not smart but i’m trying to keep the pain off the original area (2-3 metatarsals on left foot) because it hurts to walk on that too). But now from walking on the side of my left foot, it hurts even more now, especially walking or just putting pressure on it.
i told my mom to buy some brown bandage wrapping tape (for injuries) just to wrap around my foot so it would have cushion there when i walk. My mom did the X-Crossing wrap style ( X across foot and a wrap around the ankle but that hurt even worse!
also, We did a swimming workout today and i had to sprint across the water very fast (a ton of kicking) and i felt my foot pain aching when i did that. I just don’t know if i need a boot to keep it immobile or crutches to keep weight off of it. I’m just at a standstill with this.. can you please help me?
Shelby: Please make an appointment to see a podiatrist, who is an expert in treating foot and ankle pain, and preferably a podiatrist who specializes in sports injuries, like we do.. General physicians like a family doctor frequently miss things that a podiatrist will catch. And since you’re still having pain, even though there is no fracture, you’re most likely looking at a case of tendinitis or irritation from overuse, which may require immobilization of the foot. Please rest, elevate, and ice your foot as often as possible, and use an anti-inflammatory medicine like aleve or advil to control the pain. We can’t tell you much more without an exam.
Hello, I am a 38 yr old female. Just yesterday, while at work, I experienced a pain that started on the top of my left foot which shot up the inside part of my left leg to just behind the knee. It is sensitive to the touch, So I rested last night. I did some research to rule out blood clot, I have none of those symptoms. I can put weight on my foot, can even walk without pain. I can sit without pain, but if I go to put a pair of socks on, or even my flip flops, if it touches the top of my foot, pain shoots up my leg. Any Idea what this is? Nerve?
Mac: It could be nerve pain, but it could also be a damaged tendon. In either case, pain of that nature should be treated promptly so that it doesn’t become more severe. Please see a podiatrist asap for an evaluation.
I would also like to add that I am a 29 year old female, 5’2,165 lbs . I have put on weight since having my second child. My hips, calves and knees hurt equally as well…esp my hips.
Jen:
Your weight might be playing a role in your pain. When we add extra weight to a frame meant to hold less, it can put a lot of stress on bones, joints, tendons, and ligaments. Then, as we favor one side over another due to pain or discomfort, we add more stress to the pain-free side, which then also becomes painful. However, we also suspect that something else may be going on, as you say the pain continues when you’re at rest and sometimes even intensifies. Your fibromyalgia could indeed be causing all of your symptoms, so we suggest that you go to your GP to have a physical, AND see a podiatrist to find out what’s going on with your feet. Impossible for us to diagnose at this distance.
Hi, so for months now both my feet hurt horribly. Mainly on the top and sides and when I walk they are very stiff and the bones feel sore. The pain actually sometimes gets worse when in bed. They ache all the way to my ankle. I do have fibromyalgia but I don’t think that would cause all this for so long. Any ideas?
I have pain on top of my foot and directly below in the arch of my foot. If I wiggle my toes it doesn’t bother me, but if I flex my foot up or down it increases the pain. It isn’t swollen and it hurts if I am sitting or walking on it. I am overweight and I have recently started walking as well. What advice might you have
Sounds like you have irritation from what we call “overuse”. Your weight may play a role, your footwear, time on your feet every day, or any number of other things. Most likely you have plantar fasciitis in the arch. The pain on the top of the foot might be irritation in the joints, a small fracture, tendinitis, sprain, etc. Please see a podiatrist for an evaluation. Until then, ice the sore areas, elevate when possible, and use advil or aleve to control the pain. Also buy yourself a good pair of athletic shoes so that your feet have proper support.
Thank you very much for your advice. I will do all that you have advised. I’m gonna check your FB page to see if you have an office near me.
I am 5′ 2″ and overweight. I also have a very (very) large paristomal hernia (surgeon doesn’t want to operate–long story)–hernia is on my left side. About 5 days ago I was walking out of the bathroom –doing nothing strange or different–when I had a huge pain go down the top of my right foot–it almost felt like something snapped (not exactly but hard to describe it really). It also felt like huge electricity–the pain made me nauseous and feel faint. Then each time I tried to walk on it it kept happening (not quite as severe). I took ibuprofen and when I sit or lay it does not hurt. It seemed to have cleared up pretty well for a couple of days but tonight I had another bout with it. I am going to ice it tonight and keep taking the ibuprofen. I am usually barefoot whenever possible–shoes make me so hot and uncomfortable! I wear loose fitting slip on sandals in the summer. It did feel better with those on though than barefoot. I’ve never had pain like this before. No swelling–no bruising and if I push around on the top of my foot it doesn’t hurt–only when I walk (sometimes). It feels now more like on either side of the bone on top of my foot about 2″ down from the big toe……
Debbie: It sounds like you may have a stress fracture in your foot. Please see a podiatrist for an evaluation as soon as possible. Also, throw away your flip-flops, as they provide zero support of your feet – wear properly fitting athletic shoes.
2 foot specialist thought I had cysts on top of my feet, went in for surgery 2 weeks ago and when Dr cut my left foot open he said I have an over sized muscle, he has never seen that before so he stitched me back up, didn’t touch my right foot and doesn’t know what to do. I am at a loss, just know that I can’t bear the pain anymore. I wear flip flops or go barefoot because any type of pressure hurts. I live in northern Iowa where temps get below zero in winter, please help me suggest something to this Dr to relieve my pain.
Hi, I have a question. This morning I woke up with a stiff foot that felt like my toes needed to pop. I popped them and it didnt hurt, but when I got up it was painful to walk. I’ve rested and iced and took Tylenol, but the foot doesn’t hurt less and I can’t walk without limping. The pain is localized to the top of my left foot, near the middle and slightly below the big toe and the second toe to it. There is also slight swelling in that same area, but not to the rest of the foot. I don’t have insurance to see a doctor, so is there a chance it’ll go away with rest? Thank you!
Olivia: Pain in that area of the foot can be attributed to a number of problems, and it’s impossible to advise you without an exam. But we’re definitely concerned with the swelling. Switch from tylenol to advil or aleve, to control inflammation. We also recommend that you phone a local podiatry office, explain the situation, and see if they’ll accept cash payment arrangements. Many practices do.
When I woke up this morning I got out of bed and right when I took a step my toe seemed to snap oddly. Its night time now and it’s been hurting ever since. When I take a step it hurts especially and my big toe makes cracking noises ever other step I take. How do I stop the pain??
Angela: You may have damaged the joints in your toes in some way. For now, use ice and advil or aleve to control the pain. If it doesn’t subside within 3 days, please see a podiatrist.
While training for a marathon, I had a little bit of foot pain while running. Not anything to really focus on, it was more that I was just “aware” of a slight tinge in my foot. After running 7 easy miles yesterday, I noticed the top of my foot was hurting afterwards. It hadn’t hurt during the run. It’s hard to pinpoint exactly where the foot hurts (I find myself purposefully rotating it to make it hurt just to TRY to pinpoint an exact location!!), but it seems to be behind the toes, more towards the 3-5 metatarsals. It hurts when I rotate my foot in a circle/side to side as well as when I flex my toes backwards (ouch!). It’s uncomfortable walking. I can’t find anywhere that hurts to touch, though, even when pressing hard. The pain seemed to lessen as yesterday went on, but when I woke up this morning and took my first step, it flared. It’s a little better now as the day has gone on, though. The only thing I can think of doing differently during my run yesterday was running up a steep hill on my toes. Could that have done it?
Christine: Sounds like you either have a small fracture in the metatarsals, or a joint or tendon injury. Use anti inflammatory pain relievers like advil or aleve to control the pain, ice, and rest. If it’s still just as painful in 3 days, please see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
Hi…just found this site after googling “why does the top of my foot hurt with walking and not standing.” While I’m waiting to get an appointment with an ortho foot and ankle specialist, I’ll run this by you: I just got back from a trip where I did a lot, a lot of walking. I wore mostly comfortable shoes and at the end of the day my feet were tired, but not painful tired. I’ve been back about a week, and over the past few days, it’s become increasingly painful on the lateral / dorsal aspect of my left foot with…walking in shoes. Shoes of any sort. Sneakers, heels, it doesn’t matter. It doesn’t hurt with standing / weight bearing. It doesn’t hurt with stairs. It hurts significantly LESS (and sometimes, not at all) when I’m barefoot. I just did the elliptical and stair climbers at the gym for an hour in sneakers – no pain. Walking to the gym? I could barely hobble there.
Any idea what this could be? Its minimally swollen, not hot or erythematous, and I’m 100% sure I didn’t fall / twist it / drop anything on it / etc. Would love your $.02. Thanks…
Rebecca: We can’t help but ask – if you have terrible foot pain and swelling, why are you working out? Healing requires rest.
Back in the day I was a runner. Multiple full/half marathons along with a few 5K/10Ks. Before that I was a tap dancer. Needless to say my feet have suffered a lot. I’m not doing much exercising these days and while I’ve put on a few pounds, I’m not overweight. But last week my right foot started to bother me to the point where now all my shoes rub what looks to be swollen area on the top of my foot (all my shoes fit fine before). It hurts to walk, I cant flex or point my foot without pain or cramping and I get this burning, numbness, and tingling sensation between my big toe and index toe. There also seems to be quite an indentation on the top of my foot between these toes where a bunch of veins I never saw before are clearly visible now. I suffered no trauma last week so what’s going on?
Erin: Most commonly, a lump that appears in that area of your foot is a Ganglion Cyst, which is an inflammation of soft tissue caused by trauma or pressure of some sort. Alternatively, it could also be bursitis, also a type of inflammation. Neither condition is serious, but must be resolved by a podiatrist to be sure they don’t reappear.
During the evening I noticed a pain in the top of my foot over the metatarsal of the big toe. I wasn’t doing anything strenuous at the time I felt the pain. As the evening progressed the pain has worsened. Now when I try to spread my toes the pain level is at a 7 and walking is difficult. I have no clue what caused it. There’s no pain to the touch and a slight stiffness in my ankle. Any advice or guesses?
Matt: All we could do is guess, as pain in that area can indicate a number of things. You may have unknowingly fractured your metatarsal, the joints could be irritated, or you may have injured a tendon. Please see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
Several weeks ago I began getting pain in my foot. The whole middle portion of the top of my foot started to swell slightly as well as a little pain in my toes, and it hurt to step on it. I stopped wearing the shoes I was then wearing, had a practitioner work on it and it got better. A couple of weeks ago the two middle toes of my left foot started to hurt whenever I took a step. Between one step and another the pain was just there. I didn’t drop anything on my foot or twist it or anything. This time the pain is mostly in the 2nd and 3rd toes and travels up the top arch of my foot. I’ve compared my feet side by side and I dont notice too much of a difference other than when I try to point my toes the left ones don’t do it very well. I have been keeping my leg elevated and pretty much limping my through life the past couple of weeks. I’ve been walking on the outside of my foot rather than put stress on the arch and toes, but I think it’s starting to hurt the rest of my leg, too. I have had chiropractic adjustments, massages and acupuncture through a proffessional friend of mine, all to no avail. I do not have medical insurance and am really quite hesitant to go to a doctor if there’s nothing they can do about it.
Any insights?
R: We highly recommend seeing a podiatrist. If you call in advance and explain that you’d like a cash rate, most offices will work out a payment plan with you. It sounds like you may have damaged a tendon, or possibly sustained a fracture, so we’re pretty sure a podiatrist can resolve your pain. If you continue to walk on the outside of your foot, you’re going to develop overuse injuries in those areas – pain, irritation, possibly worse. Plus, since you’re off balance, you might also experience leg, back, shoulder, or neck pain as well.
For about 3 weeks i have had a pain on the top of my foot that is gradually getting worse. Everytime i put weight on it, it feels like my pinky toe and the toe next to it are being ripped apart from each other. The pain is constant but hurts worse walking on it after i have rested. The past two days the pain has been moving up my leg and throbbing, it hurts horrifically to the point of tears, and it hurts to touch. I have no idea what happened to it. I am in a tremendous amount of pain and i want to get it checked out, but i do not have health insurance. I don’t want to go to the emergency room because i would be devastated getting a huge bill just to be sent home with pain pills. Any suggestions on what i should do or what i can do at home? I have already tried ice, heat, elevation, and tapping my toes i don’t know what else to do it’s driving me insane!
Kristin: It sounds like you may have fractured one of the metatarsals in your foot (those are the long bones that connect to your toes). That level of pain requires medical attention. We recommend that you DO NOT go to the ER. Call a local podiatrist and ask what their cash price is for services and discuss terms for payment. Most medical offices these days are very accommodating of those who have no insurance, as there are so many uninsured out there. Have you visited http://www.healthcare.gov? You may qualify for a policy at little to no charge.
A little over a year ago I was playing soccer and the field was super muddy and slippery. When I was walking or jogging (I don’t remember) to get the ball, I slipped, and my foot bent under itself. So I landed with my toes bending under my foot. It was very painful and I could hardly walk. And when I walked off the field all the rest of the school day I was walking on the side of my foot veryyyyy slowly. I went to the doctor and he said I had a bone contusion and I had to wear a boot and use crutches for 1 1/2 – 2 months. A few months back I noticed that after I ran, I was unable to move my foot up or down. It’s now getting very sore if I walk on it too long. When I say I can’t move it, it’s like someone chopping your foot off and telling you to move it. I literally have no control of my foot after I walk/ stand for awhile or run. I got an X-ray last week and there’s no fractures so I’m going to get a nerve scan next week. Do you have any idea what’s wrong?
Amanda: Wow, that’s a nasty injury. Our first guess would have been a fracture, but as your doctor has already ruled that out, then yes, a nerve problem would be the next logical thing. Are you seeing a podiatrist?
I’m going to get an MRI tomorrow, physical therapy on Thursday, and a nerve scan/see a specialist on friday. You don’t suggest that i participate in football practice right? My primary doctor cleared my physical to let me practice, but I don’t feel comfortable participating without knowing exactly what’s wrong. I mean the last thing I want to do is make it worse.
Amanda: As we aren’t your official physician, we’ll defer to his judgement. However, if YOU don’t feel comfortable playing, then don’t play. It’s your body and you have to live with it.
I dropped a light metal (side piece to a bed) on the top of my right foot earlier this morning. Now I have a stinging pain on the top of my foot about an inch and a half from my fourth toe when I’m walking or tilting it towards the floor and ceiling. I think I just bruised it but I’m not sure.
Kendra: Today, use ice to control the swelling and advil or aleve to control the pain. If the pain and tenderness persists more than 2 days, or gets worse, see a podiatrist, as you may have fractured a metatarsal.
I fell on my ankle and I don’t think I twisted it but it’s swelled up and bruising. I can walk on it but my concern is on top of my foot it fills like it has water in it. What does that mean? And it feels like it keeps filling up.
Cindaroo: Please see a podiatrist immediately. Your swelling and bruising indicates that you either sprained your ankle or fractured it. Continued walking on the ankle may injure it further. Regarding the feeling of fluid in the ankle – a podiatrist needs to examine it and they will give you a diagnosis.
I kicked the corner of my screen door and I bled quite a bit, then a few hours later it hurt to put any pressure on my foot or even move my toes or flex my foot. It feels like it’s bruised but there isn’t one?
Emily: If one is “bleeding quite a bit” and experiencing pain, one should always seek medical attention. When you kicked the screen door, you may have fractured your toe or foot. Please see a podiatrist for an evaluation asap.
For the past week I’ve had pain on the top of my feet. Mostly the left. It starts out feeling like a bruise and then starts to feel more and more painful the longer I stand. Yesterday, the pain shot into my knee. Usually after a short period of standing I have to sit down. Also, not sure if it’s related, but my calves get a “tingling” sensation. It’s a creepy/annoying feeling. I also got that feeling while I was pregnant 6 months ago but it went away after I gave birth until recently. After my pregnancy I put on significant weight and my son was 20lbs at 4 months old. My back has taken quite a beating carrying him around and my extra weight. I wonder if this is a common experience.
Jennifer: Have you ever been tested for diabetes? Tingling pain in the calf and shooting pains in your lower legs may indicate nerve damage from persistently high blood sugar. As far as the pain in the top of your feet – that could indicate an overuse injury or a small fracture. Part of the problem may be your weight, or perhaps your footwear. Buy a good pair of athletic shoes and wear them whenever possible. Elevate and ice your feet when you;re at rest and use aleve or advil to manage the pain. And if you start a weight management program, you should see significant relief from the pain as your weight drops.
I have had foot pain at the top and bottom for over a year now. Morning, noon and night. Worse in the morning. I do have R.A. and did have a heel spur which my doctor took care of with a shot, no more heel pain. But I have bought so many different shoes to see which I can wear comfortably, all sorts of inserts which help a little. I’m wondering what it is that makes this pain. I’m hobbling around and not happy about it. My R.A. condition is under control but this is making life miserable for me. I’m about 5’6 and 190. I walk with my dog 3 times a day around the apartment complex, would appreciate any thoughts or help. My podiatrist says do exercises, my R.A doctor doesn’t seem to care about my foot pain. I asked for new X-rays last week.
Thank you.
LV: Sorry to hear about your discomfort. The rheumatoid arthritis could definitely be the cause of all of your pain, as it affects every joint, and there are LOTS of joints in your feet and toes. Have your podiatrist create custom orthotics, which are molded specifically for your feet, so that you can have the same insert in every shoe. From your description, you aren’t overweight, and you’re exercising regularly, which is good. Without an exam, we have no idea what the specific cause of your pain might be, unfortunately. Are you wearing a quality pair of athletic shoes? Padding and support are essential.
Actually, being 5’6 and 190lbs IS overweight. A healthy weight for someone of MY height, (5’7) is between 130-140lbs. Being that she is an inch shorter, her healthy weight would probably be somewhere between 125-135lbs. Being overweight I’m sure contributes to the pain her feet. I have the same pain, I am over weight right now. I think I’m somewhere around 190lbs, following having my first child 6 months ago. The pain is recent. For about a week or so.
I just started working again and after about 4 hours on my feet, I have sharp shooting pains coming from the tops of my feet going halfway up my legs to right under my knees and radiating painfully. The pain is radiating up my legs and it feels like it is bone deep. Any help?
Also, I am 30 weeks pregnant and I have recently stared working again after not working for about a month.
Amy: The pain is most likely being caused by your pregnancy, which is very common. When your body gains weight rapidly, as in pregnancy, your muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments in your feet have a hard time keeping up, and become irritated (or worse). Throughout your pregnancy, and until you lose the baby weight, take care of your feet by elevating them whenever possible, wear athletic shoes or other comfortable footwear, and use ice or heat to relieve the discomfort (try both and choose what feels best). If your ob-gyn approves, use advil, aleve, or tylenol to control the pain. We’re sure that your foot pain will resolve after your baby is born.
I had bunion surgery last Nov and it hurt on the top of my foot over my 4th and 5th toe even then right after surgery. When I put a shoe on that touches that area it starts this pain that goes down the outside of my foot and the front of my ankle. Help is there anything I can do??
Shirley:
Have you discussed this with your surgeon? A problem that appeared immediately after surgery which is still lingering may be quite serious.
Hi, for the past month I have been getting pain (burning pain) on mainly my right foot between my ankle and little toe towards the side. It is intermittent and there is no injury but when I press down there is a dull bruising feeling. Can you please advise?
Sean: Hmmm… Those symptoms could indicate any number of things. A minor fracture, irritated tendons, even poor footwear. We’re not sure what you mean by “a dull bruising feeling” – is there actual pain?
Hello there,
I have been experiencing pain on the top of my left foot. I severely sprained my left ankle last year but it healed completely. I am a dancer but have taken the last year off and recently started working out again. I can’t lift my big toe upwards without horrible pain. my tendons don’t pop out (just a little) like they do in my right foot since it has begun. when I try to lift my big toe there are no signs of tendons even being there. on the top of my foot also when I try to lift my toes up, cracks and if you put your finger on it you can feel it cracking as if bones are rubbing together. the top of my foot is always a light purple blue color and is painful to touch. as a dancer, I can no longer go up on releve or point my left foot. I can’t seem to figure out what’s going on.
Tylar: You definitely re-injured your foot, possibly a new sprain, or a problem with the tendons, joints, or ligaments. Dancers suffer a lot of what we call “overuse” injuries, just like professional athletes. Basically, you’re demanding more from your feet than what they’ve been conditioned to give, and something has gone awry. Please seek attention from a podiatrist immediately.
I’ve had pain in my right foot when I wake up in the morning and when I get up from sitting for an extended period of time. The pain is at the top of my foot and also occurs while doing different movements with my toes.
Ellen: Where EXACTLY on the top of your foot is your pain?
I am having pain in my foot. Well my toes they keep cracking they don’t hurt i just wanna know do my toes have a cracked bone and how can i fix it?
Destiny: The ‘cracking” you describe is, we assume, the movement of cartilage in the joints – at times it makes a “popping” sound if you flex your toes just right. However, this is also an early sign of arthritis. Nothing to do yet, but see a podiatrist if the joints begin to swell or if you start experiencing pain.
I am having a lot of pain in my right foot when I walk or bend it. It doesn’t hurt quite as much when I stretch it but shoots pain up my leg and down my toes when I try to bend it towards my leg? What do you think is going on? I haven’t fallen or injured myself in any way recently. As I am typing this laying on my belly I am feeling tingling in my toes. Thank you for you help!
Jessica: Your symptoms could indicate any number of things: sprain, fracture, tendinitis, or something more serious. From your description, we can’t make an educated guess. Our suggestion is to see a podiatrist right away and find out what’s causing your pain.
I have bilateral top of the feet soreness/pain after working out. If I am on the ellipitical or versions of it, the top on the feet become sore after I have showered and started cool down.
It is like a dull ache and soreness on both feet. Any ideas and perhaps stretches to alleviate or minimize this occurrence.
Sam: You could be suffering from an overuse injury or simply bad or too tight athletic shoes. Soreness on the top of the feet is sometimes caused by a shoe that doesn’t quite fit correctly and rubs against your skin. The shoes may also be too tight and are compressing your foot. Try changing footwear and see if the problem persists. If the soreness doesn’t subside, you may be working out harder than your feet can handle. If that’s the case, you’ll need to back off a little until the muscles, tendons, and ligaments adjust to the new intensity.
I injured my right foot about 2 weeks ago. I can walk on it fine, however I am unable to bend my foot down. If i try to it is extremely painful with pain shooting from near my ankle running down into my 3 middle toes, but there is no evident swelling or bruising. Any ideas what this could be? I am unable to even put my shoes on properly because of the pain at the moment.
Sophie: Your symptoms could indicate damage to the tendons, a sprain, or a fracture. You need to see a podiatrist as soon as possible for an evaluation.
Hi, After waking up from a night out I found my feet to be in excruciating pain on top. On both feet the pain is located on the top, lateral side, there is no bruising, aside from the left foot, but the bruise is on the medial side, just over the arch. There isn’t any pain when not moving the feet, but walking is very painful. I didn’t have any falls, and the heels I was wearing were the old faithfuls, never had a problem with them before, always very comfortable.
Any idea on what it could be would be highly appreciated! Thank you.
Priscilla: Are you sure that no one stepped on the top of one or both of your feet? This is really common when dancing (which is what I assume from your ‘night out” reference),and you mention the bruising on the top of your foot. Getting your feet tangled on the dance floor or having someone step on them can cause fractures or sprains very easily. You should see a podiatrist for an evaluation (a chiropodist in the U.K.) as soon as you can so it heals properly.
My feet hurt all the time, but I am used to it. I’m overweight, in fairly good shape, but 175lbs. and 5’4″ and 67 years old. I had Hep C, a heart attack, and a car hit me, but I am OK now and walk about 1-2.5 miles each day. Other than retired, work around my house and garden some. I am cured of other stuff now, but still suffer with the foot problem. I woke up last night and had to limp several times to the bathroom because the pain on top of my foot was excruciating, but as I walk around this morning, it just gets better and almost gone enough to go on my walk. I do wear open shoes and go barefoot most days, sneakers hurt me and most shoes are too cramped where my toes curl up at the ends, so I am more likely to wear croc types of shoes or moccasins. Anyway, this pain on top of the foot thing has happened a time or two before, but always goes away as I walk. What do you suppose it is?
Paula: You mention a number of problems, which we’ll address individually:
1. Being overweight can cause a number of foot problems, which we call overuse injuries. Put simply, too much body weight causes stress to the bones, joints, tendons, and ligaments in your feet, and they become irritated or damaged in any number of ways. Pain can occur literally anywhere in the foot, depending on which part of the foot has been injured. The pain on the top of your foot which subsides as you move around suggest tendinitis damage – it’s irritated and tight, but as you use it, it warms up and becomes more flexible, so the pain subsides.
2. You also mention that your toes curl up at the ends, which suggest hammertoes (http://pafootdoctors.com/hammertoes/) or crossover toes (http://pafootdoctors.com/crossover-toe/). They can also cause pain from the toes themselves rubbing against shoes, and from the tension on the tendons this deformity creates.
Please see a podiatrist for an evaluation and course of treatment.
Hi. I’m overweight but have lost 40 pounds since September. I’ve been running/walking the last few months and being careful to not overdo it, taking 1-3 rest days between runs. It’s been going great. Last night, I was reaching for something on a high shelf and got a sharp pain in my right foot, outside (lateral?), near my pinky toe. My foot felt very weak and I nearly fell because I was unable to bear weight. I recovered quickly and didn’t give it much more thought. This morning, it happened again several times, so I took it easy and skipped my walk/run today and took some ibuprofen. It happened a few more times throughout the day. Between these occurrences, I have a very minor dull ache along the bottom outside of the foot but no pain. Tonight, I was able to determine that the pain occurs when I am bearing more weight on the outside of my foot, on or near the pinky toe. The pain starts at or under the toe, and travels to the top of my foot. My immediate reaction is to remove all weight from that area, and the pain immediately goes away. Does this sound like something that will resolve in a few days, or should I be seen at the start of the week? Thanks!!
wanted to add that I don’t have cheap shoes, and I wear quality sneakers not only for running but most days, all day.
Norma: Well, it certainly sounds like you have an injury which your podiatrist should examine – we’re guessing you might have stress fracture from the new activity. Since the pain resumes when you bear weight on the area, we suggest you have it looked at asap. If it is a fracture, your foot may need to be immobilized for a short period with a surgical boot so that it can heal correctly.
Thank you. Believe it or not, it seemed to resolve by Monday morning. Maybe was a muscle in spasm or something.
Hey everyone, lately (for the last month or so) the bottom of my left foot (the three smallest and farthest left toes) have been killing whenever I walk or run. I usaually have 3 athletic practices each day. Is my foot hurting because of overuse? Help!
Kyle: Could be, or perhaps your sneakers are too tight. Are you wearing new athletic shoes?
Hello,
I woke up two days ago and my right foot really hurt, as the day progressed it hurt more and more. yesterday when I woke up I could barely put any weight on it. It is the front of my foot on the top and bottom. I went to the ER yesterday and the doc said it was Plantar fasciitis, which makes no sense to me because it is not the heel of my foot (after reading descriptions). I do not have any trauma that I remember, I have been running and walking a lot lately and wearing flats. Should I make an appointment with my Dr. and get him to get me an x-ray? It hurts at rest as well, just not as bad as walking.
Breanna: You’re probably right in that it is not plantar fasciitis, although with PF, pain can be felt anywhere from the heel to the arch. But definitely not on top of the foot. So often we injure our feet without having any awareness of it, especially when we’re on our feet a lot. We would guess that you have metatarsalgia, an overuse injury, but usually not critical (although it can be very painful). We absolutely recommend, as with any foot or ankle injury, to see a podiatrist for an evaluation, as they’re experts in treating foot and ankle problems.
For the past few days I have this soreness on the top of my foot, it starts under my big toe and runs down to the top of my foot. It really hurts when I walk on it, I have to wrap my foot to get relief. It also bothers me when I am sleeping. It isnt a sharp pain just feels real sore and it comes and goes. I dont notice any swelling either. Any idea what the problem is and what I can do for it?
Pam: Sounds like you may have fractured your first metatarsal without realizing it. Please see a podiatrist for an evaluation asap, and in the meantime rest, ice, and elevate your foot whenever possible and use advil or aleve to manage the pain.
I ended up figuring out what was wrong with my foot. The outside bone was being compressed inward the wrong way (the joint between the ankkle and foot). What was done to corrected problem was that I got the doctor to trim my foot inserts and it has helped immensely. It still hurts as I stand on my feet for the entire duration of my shofy where I work though aside from that it is fine.
Hi, I gained about 30 lbs due to pregnancy. After I gave birth 7 months ago I’ve been having sharp pain under my right foot when I wake up in the middle of the night and in the morning. It goes away a few minutes after walking it off. Now I noticed the pain is on top of my foot. And now I feel pain on the left foot also along the 5th metatarsal. My feet are not swollen and I did not injure them. I am on my feet all day at work. But it’s been 4 yrs and pain just started 7 months ago. Please advise. Thank you.
Charm: We’re assuming from your description that you didn’t lose the weight you gained during pregnancy? If so, yours is actually a very common problem. Your feet were conditioned to carry a certain weight, and post-pregnancy, they’re suffering what we call “overuse” injury. This can mean anything from minor irritation of the joints and ligaments to actual tears or fractures. More specifically, on your right foot, it sounds like you have plantar fasciitis (http://pafootdoctors.com/plantar-fasciitis/), which is very common. The pain on the outside of your left foot could very well be the result of you shifting weight off of your right foot and onto your left foot due to pain. To manage the plantar fasciitis, ice, elevate, and rest your foot whenever possible and use advil or aleve to manage the pain. If your symptoms do not improve in one month, please see a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment plan. If you allow the fasciitis to linger, it will become a lot worse some patients develop such excruciating pain they can barely walk.
The top of my foot has been bothering me for 4 days. Mostly when I walk . I felt the top of my foot and it hurts to touch it . I don’t know what I did to it . I haven’t done anything to harm my foot. I wear really comfy shoes with good insoles. Any idea what it could be?
Rosemarie: Pain on the top of your foot could indicate anything from a minor irritation to a fracture. Please see a podiatrist for an evaluation, as you’ve had pain for more than 4 days.
Top of my left foot hurts when walking or putting pressure on it, It was not hurting this morning when I got up and went to work but after several hours of walking and standing it started hurting. My shoes are loose but not too loose on my feet and it is just the left foot.
Lisa: Are you sure you didn’t injure your foot in some way? Rest, elevate, and ice the foot whenever possible and use advil or aleve to control the pain. If the symptoms haven’t resolved in 3 days, please see a podiatrist for a diagnosis.
Hi. The top of my left foot has been hurting. Right between my carpals and my tarsals there’s a small bump. And it hurts sometimes when i touch. Sometimes the pain disappears but not for long it comes back. I thought it was gone 2 weeks ago but suddenly it’s back. It all started 2 days after jogging. And i havent been running for awhile. I dont know if it is because of the long layoff or my shoes. They’re not that tight but they do feel a bit uncomfortable…i don’t know.
Marilyn: Without actually seeing the foot, we can only guess.The “small bump” might be a cyst, or it could be irritation from your shoes. Since the pain began after jogging after laying off for some time, it would’t surprise us at all that the recent activity caused a minor injury. Many of us tend to push too hard in the spring without giving our feet time to get back in condition. For now, rest and elevate the foot, wear proper shoes with plenty of support, and use aleve or advil to control the pain and inflammation. If your symptoms don’t resolve in a few days, please see a podiatrist for a diagnosis.
you need special shoes for walking running and just everyday activity. I have that problem, but since I’m wearing shoes that give me support in my arches and they are padded my foot doesn’t have that pain at all. Shoes by Ryka my foot feel so much better. I also wear the support sandals around my home. and no more pain.
The top of my left foot hurts really bad!!! Some days don’t be doing anything but lying down and when I get up can’t feel my left foot. And sometimes when I’m just sitting and when I get up can’t hardly walk.
Cocoa: You describe 2 different symptoms: you say it hurts, but you also say you can’t feel your left foot. Can you be more specific?
It used to be where I couldn’t walk the pain was that bad in my foot the top portion omg.. it felt like my foot could break.. the pain was that bad. now that I got some special shoes by Ryka my foot feels so much better change your shoe wear.
The top of my feet hurt where the instep part is. It hurts more when I am at rest or even in the morning when I am in bed. I have noticed that my shoes seem tight, but the feet don’t look swollen, except maybe above the toes. They don’t seem to hurt with any exercise.
Heidi: Your symptoms could be associated with a number of conditions, but is probably an overuse injury. Do you stand on your feet for long periods? But you also say your feet are swollen above the toes?
Hi, the top of my foot has been hurting when I move it or walk. It started about three days ago suddenly. I at first thought it could be my shoes and changed them to open shoes but that had no effect. The pain is still there when me feet are bare. Do you have any ideas what it could be.
Sara: Are you wearing shoes that properly support your feet? Like a quality pair of athletic shoes?
It doesn’t seem to matter what type of shoes and if I am wearing them or not, the pain is unfortunately still there
Sara: Where exactly does it hurt on the top of your foot?
In January 2014 I had a bunion removed as well as a neuroma on my left foot. Two dissolvable pins were put in at the time of the surgery. After about 4 weeks I developed an infection in the incision of the neuroma but it has since cleared up. It has been about 14 weeks since my surgery and I am still in excrutiating pain when I walk. The pain seems to be coming from the top of my foot in the area of the neuroma. It is very stiff and extremely sore and it constantly stays swollen. Since the surgery my second toe has shifted and is not pointing inward toward my big toe. Prior to the surgery it was straight. My surgeon put be back in my boot with a spacer between my toes. I’ve been back in the boot for about a week now but still in a lot of pain. Any idea of what could be causing such pain?
Sandy: We can’t diagnose you via the internet, unfortunately. But it sounds like you have a very serious problem. Did a podiatric surgeon perform the procedure?
Yes, he performed bunion surgery on my right foot last year with no problems.
Sandy: If he’s a podiatric surgeon, then I’m sure you’re in competent hands. Unfortunately, your symptoms are too complicated to diagnose without seeing x-rays, tests, or knowing your case history.
The past two months my right foot has been hurting. But not the whole foot just the the right side of the right foot top/side/bottom. I can’t stretch my foot without it hurting or walk too long without the pain coming, which isn’t good due to me being a waitress. If I stretch it the pain shoots up to my ankle along with the whole side.what could this be?
Amber: Those who waitress and others who have jobs which involve lots of time on their feet frequently experience what we call “overuse injuries”. Basically, muscles, ligaments, and joints become fatigued and irritated.If stressed long enough, they give way and the result is a fracture or tear. You should definitely seek an evaluation from a podiatrist, but before then, buy quality athletic shoes (or others) which support your feet correctly. They should have sufficient padding and arch support and not slide up, down, or sideways. To manage the pain, rest, ice, and elevate your sore foot whenever possible and use aleve or advil to manage the pain.
A few months ago I started with a pain on top of my left foot that hurt when I flexed my foot or wore heels. I’m active and do kickboxing and bootcamp but don’t recall hurting it. A month and 1/2 ago I hurt the left side of the same foot on top from kickboxing. It’s the same pain as the middle top of my foot. X-rays showed nothing. The pain comes and goes but worsens with heavy activity or kicking. Both places hurt but the one more to the left is pain full. It hurts to point my toes and if im laying down, I can’t move my left foot outward (flexing to the left) without pain. I can walk ok though. What could this be? Are the doctors missing something? It was an orthopedic doctor. I just don’t want to continue working out if I’m making it worse.
Rhonda: You may be suffering from what we call an overuse injury: muscles, tendons, and joints are becoming fatigued from too much use. It’s important to get a handle on it, because at some point, something has to give, and that usually results in a fracture. We suggest seeing a podiatrist as soon as you can for a full evaluation – podiatrists are experts at diagnosing these conditions. Until then, rest, elevate, and ice the feet when sore, and use advil or aleve to control the pain. Also make sure that you’re wearing quality athletic shoes that support and pad your feet correctly.
I went to a foot specialist 2 weeks ago and he said MRI wasn’t normal (my ortho & radiologist stated it was) and it showed inflammation and fluid in joints near ankle on top of foot. He said the radiologist probably wasn’t looking in that area and only the area that it hurt the most, which isn’t always the injured sight. He has me wearing an air boot for 4 weeks and only to be taken off at home. Well it’s week 2 and today I had my boot off all day at home but I did some cleaning and noticed my foot was in more pain than ever. It’s doubled since before I saw the doctor and a little while ago I was lying on the couch and I raised my leg about an inch and let my foot fall (kind of like kicking the couch with my heel but ever so slightly) and as soon as the heel hit the couch, pain shot through my ankle and top of foot. It has never done that before. It’s also tender to touch the top of foot near the upper part of the 4th metatarsal. I fear the boot has babied the foot so much that it’s made the foot worse. Either that or it’s the wrong diagnoses. Maybe they should have done MRI with contrast or more of the ankle (the only got bottom part of ankle and foot on original MRI)? I don’t want to keep wearing this boot if my foot is going to get worse.
Is the fluid in your joints caused by arthritis or infection? We’re glad you saw a foot specialist (hopefully a podiatrist), as they’ll be the best to diagnose what’s going on with your ankle. To answer your question – no, wearing the boot will not “baby” your foot and weaken it. The boot is very important for protecting and stabilizing the foot while it heals. After your problem is resolved, you’ll most likely be sent for physical therapy to strengthen the ankle after this time of immobilizing it. Since you’re having new pain that wasn’t present before, you should report your new symptoms to your foot specialist.
I have a pain on the top of both of my feet. It is an aching and throbbing kind of pain and I get this feeling after running, cheer, etc. I also get it at random times when I am just walking around. It is also tender at touch but once I apply ice to the pain in the top of my foot, the pain slowly starts to decrease.
Hannah: It sounds like your tendons, ligaments, muscles, or joints are experiencing what we call an overuse injury. From your activity, the foot is becoming irritated, most likely because you’re not wearing proper athletic shoes. Make sure the shoes you wear are a quality pair, with proper padding and arch support. Be warned however, that if you continue to see these symptoms and don’t address the issue, you could end up with a fracture. Ice, rest, and elevate the foot when possible, and use advil or aleve to control the pain and irritation.
Top of my foot, below the pinky and 2 other toes,.hurts extremely bad. Pain is unbearable if toes are curled or when taking a step and pushing off with toes. Came on practically out of nowhere, just doing household chores. Any ideas?
Anna: The tendons are probably irritated, or the joints in the bones of your feet (metatarsals). Rest, elevate, and ice the foot whenever possible, and use advil or aleve to control the pain. Also make sure that you’re wearing athletic shoes that support your feet correctly – off-the-shelf shoes don’t cut it these days. If the pain doesn’t subside in 3 days, please see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
I started work this morning and my left foot was fine. About 1hour in it started hurting and as the day went on it became extremely painful when I walked (like standing on a nail every step) I had to stop or almost drag my foot and limp. It’s at the top of the foot more on the middle/left side of my I’m on my feet pretty much all day at work. Now I’m sat down it’s eased but feels a bit numb.
John: Sounds like you may have fractured your foot without being aware of it. Or it could be a tendon injury from overuse. Please get an evaluation from a podiatrist. Until then, rest the foot whenever possible, elevate, and ice, and use advil or aleve to control the pain.
Hello. It sounds like you have callasus which can be painful due to walking to far or even standing on your feet for so long. I get callasus sometimes on my feet and it feels like your walking on sharp gritty stones with bare feet even though you have shoes on. yes and having callasus can cause you to limp. I found that bathing my feet in a bowl of water and resting your feet afterwards helps for a while but to keep standing on your feet and walking long distances it doesnt help it at all.
I’m hoping you can help. The joint on my right big toe hurts when I walk, giving me a limp. The pain starts at the big toe and shoots toward the smaller toes. It only hurts when I walk or point my toes up. My shoes aren’t too tight, I haven’t exercised recently, and there’s been no injury.
Amber:
You may have a bunion forming, or you may have injured the joint without knowing it. You might also have sprained your toe or fractured one of the bones. Please see a podiatrist at your earliest opportunity for an asessment.
Please help I am experiencing a very high level of pain in the upper top foot/ connecting to the ankle . It only seems to be while im lying down that its unbareable what could this be??
Summer:
Summer: That’s a very unusual symptom, as most pain occurs when weight bearing on the foot. Have you seen a podiatrist yet? We highly suggest you do so as soon as possible.
Summer, have you found a solution to your foot pain? I too had pain while laying and it was a ganglion cyst in the joint. surgery and it went way, but now feel new ganglion on opposite side of joint is causing new pain.
Hi, it is the end of summer here in Australia and I have been wearing open sandals and thongs all summer. Today, being cooler, I wore running shoes for 5 hours but did not walk too much at all in them. Tonite I have a big bump on the top of my foot that is very painful and I can hardly touch it!! I am icing it at present. One thing to note, 3 days ago I got an excruciating cramp in the leg of the same foot. Could this be related or were my laces just too tight? Thanks.
Natalie: Your shoes may have been too tight, or you may have a growth of some sort which you were unaware of, and it became irritated from the shoes. If the irritated area doesn’t resolve in a few days with ice, rest, and aleve or advil, please see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
The top part of my foot hurts when I stand. It’s in the area above my arch, in the area above my last three toes. It pops occasionally when walking and tends to have the tense feeling of needing to pop. It ranges from a sharp pain to a dull achy pain. I work 40 hrs a week on my feet at a job that does not allow us to wear tennis shoes. This has been going on for the past few weeks.
I know you can’t diagnose it without looking at it, but do you have any ideas on what it could be and if it’s worth the doctor bills to go see someone?
Elizabeth: It sounds like you have what we call an overuse injury. Your tendons, muscles, or bones have become irritated from wearing shoes that aren’t protecting your feet properly. We definitely suggest seeing a podiatrist for an evaluation. Until then, rest, ice, and elevate the sore foot whenever possible, and use advil or aleve to manage the pain.
Please help! For the past few months on and off I have been experiencing terrible pain in the soft bit between the bones of my little toe and the next toe along (on the top of my foot). It is a throbbing pain and it really hurts when I bend my toes as I walk. I don’t know whether my sporting activities (such as tennis) have anything to do with this. Could you please reccomend a treatment.
Jaymee: It sounds like you may have a stress fracture – see yesterday’s post: https://eastpennfoot.wordpress.com/2014/03/27/stress-fracture-in-foot-how-to-prevent/
The top of my foot hurts, what feels like between the bones, and extends under to the side of the arch. If I step down and my foot is flat, it doesn’t seem to hurt too bad. As soon as I lift my foot up, it’s very painfull. Also, shifting weight towards the arch hurts pretty bad or lifting my toes up. Most of the pain occurs when I lift my foot off the ground though.
Matt: Sounds like you may have fractured your foot. Please have an examination from a podiatrist as soon as possible.
The top of my foot hurts! The muscle or tendon attached to my big toe hurts to bend my big toe or to put pressure on it. I dropped a big piece of a heavy metal on my foot yesterday. There is no external bruising though.
Alyson: You no doubt injured your foot internally and you should see a podiatrist asap for a diagnosis. Just because there’s no bruising doesn’t mean there’s no injury.
My mom has been complaining for the past few months that her feet have just been killing her after her 8 hour shifts at work. She has to stand walk, and hurry on a daily basis. She has pain on the top of her right foot and all around the outsides. From what she has told me, she tried to change her shoes, the extra innersoles, tylenol, ibuprofen, and nothing has worked. What should she do? Thanks!
Assuming she doesn’t have an injury, your mother should see a podiatrist to have custom orthotics made for her shoes. They’ll give her foot proper support customized for her. http://pafootdoctors.com/custom-orthotic-devices-shoe-inserts-ankle-foot-orthosis/
Hello,
A friend stepped on the top of my right foot while he was wearing boots. It ended up bruising and being a bit painful when bend it. Walking is fine but running is not. It is now almost two weeks later and my foot still hurts, especially if I put pressure on it (i.e. rest my foot on top of the injured one). Should I be concerned or will it just take a bit more time to heal? Thanks!
Your symptoms are consistent with a contusion (bruising), but also with a fracture. We recommend getting it looked at by a podiatrist and until then, rest, elevate, and ice the sore foot, and use advil or aleve to control the soreness.
Hello, I am an avid runner. I went on an 8 miler this morning and the run went great except for the last 0.5 mile. Suddenly it felt like a dull throbbing on top of my foot near my ankle but more towards the inside of my foot than right in the middle. As I finished the run the pain got a little more intense. During the early parts of my run I did have a couple of steps where I misjudged and slammed my left foot into the road fairly hard (it was mostly dark). Now that I have cooled down the pain has increased slightly but I’d still call it probably an irritating dull pain. Could this just be a bruise? A sprain of something in the area? I’ve taken some aleve and will try to RICE when I can. Any advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Joe:
Sounds like you may have sprained your ankle – many people do so without even realizing it. We suggest getting it evaluated by a podiatrist as soon as possible.
I have had a hard knot on the top of my foot for about 3 years now. It hurts so bad sometimes that I can barely walk. It hurts worse when I’m on my feet for long periods of time. The knot feels hard like a bone. Is this something I should worry about?
Amanda: You should definitely be concerned with it. It’s a painful, abnormal growth, and you need to have it examined by a podiatrist.
Hi there,
I came across your site while searching the web for an answer that I was not able to find yet. A few days ago, I was sitting “weirdly” on the floor and after that in the evening, there was a bump (swelling) that was localized on the top part of my foot, at the place where foot and the ankle meet, and slightly towards the outside of the foot. The bump was about size of a walnut. The bump was tender to touch the first day, so I rested and iced it for a while. The next day, there as a bit more swelling one the top part of my foot below the lump, not much, and that is now almost gone as well. While I am definitely getting better as far as pain and ability to walk in my shoes, the bump is still there and now it is rather hard to touch but not painful. I was not able to find any indications during my search as to what the issue could be, and I would appreciate if you could help and let me know as to what exactly is ailing me. Thanks!
Bo: Hard to diagnose over the internet, but your symptoms could be consistent with a sprain, fracture, or tendon injury. Since the lump is still present, we suggest you get it checked out as soon as possible, and in the meantime, keep doing what you’re doing – rest, ice, elevation.
Hey 🙂 I’m a gymnast and the top of my foot has started hurting after gym last night.i woke up this morning and it was still the same. Do you know what’s wrong?
Sienna: Without an examination, we can’t tell you specifically. But if we were to guess, you most likely have an overuse injury, which is very common in your sport. Elevate, ice, and rest your foot whenever possible and stay off the mats for a week. If the pain is still present, see a podiatrist, as you might have a fracture.
Hi, the top of my foot hurts as well, its not bad when i’m not on it but when I stand the bend of my foot hurts really bad forcing me to limp. It didn’t do this until I got off work last night. I stood at the register for three hours and remember tying my shoes extra tight before my shift.. should I go to school or try to stay off of it? I’m off today but work again tomorrow evening.
Haily:
Your symptoms are consistent with a minor ankle sprain, or an overuse injury from being on your feet for long periods. The first thing to do is to elevate, ice, and rest the sore foot and take advil or aleve to manage the pain and soreness. The second thing to do is to make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation to make sure something more serious isn’t going on.
Good afternoon and would like some insight. I have this pain in my left foot where if I turn it all the way to the right it hurts badly or if try to bend it to stretch it hurts bad. I’m currently wearing orthodics with combat boots everyday for work. I wakeup in the morning and it hurts to walk until I get going. After that it is fine for the day. It has been going on for the last few months. I had my foot run over with a panel cart (hockey glass) and almost ripped off my achelies tendon.
Christopher: Did you ever have your foot examined after your injury?
No I haven’t had it examined. Not by a person who specifically looks at the foot or ankel.
Christopher: Considering that your achilles tendon may be significantly injured, we highly recommend you see a podiatrist as soon as possible. Your symptoms are consistent with achilles damage. If you need to wear boots for your job, we also suggest buying a high quality pair with good support – combat boots are notorious for their lack of support. If you don’t absolutely have to wear boots, buy a quality pair of athletic shoes which will pad and support your feet correctly.
could you help me my foot was fine yesterday but today i have woken with a pain in the top of my left foot just under my toes in the middle its very painful to walk so much so asif it has bruised or something
Lee: Your symptoms are consistent with a number of possible injuries: fracture, tendon or ligament irritation or damage, or nerve entrapment. Make an appointment to see a podiatrist for an evaluation and until then, rest, elevate, and ice the sore area.
Hi,
I’m a 20 year old female and I’ve been having pain in the top of my right foot for the past couple of months. It hurts to point my toes, and my right foot is now swollen as if I were pregnant or something. The subtle pain has even started to work its way up into my shins. My doctor told me to take tylenol 3 times a day to reduce the inflammation for 10 days since I’m allergic to ibprophen, however that didn’t work. My feet swells up the most after an 8 hour shift at work in the pharmacy. Have I damaged a nerve in my foot? Is there any other remedy for this other than tylenol?
Rachael: First of all, we’re surprised that your doctor told you to take tylenol to reduce swelling, because it has no effect. Tylenol isn’t an anti-inflammatory, as advil or aleve are. The fact that you have pain when you point your toes would indicate that you’ve injured your foot in some way – probably not a nerve, possibly a sprain, fracture, or tendon issue. The foot is most likely swelling up as a response to putting weight on the injured area. Most likely pain is creeping up your leg because you’re unconsciously shifting your weight, placing more stress on areas not adapted to it. Please make an appointment to see a podiatrist as soon as possible, and in the meantime, please wear athletic shoes at work (if possible) to provide proper support for your feet. If you’ve been wearing high heels while your foot has been bothering you, that could also be the cause of your problem.
Hi there. I suffer from flat feet and I have always felt discomfort and pain when walking for long distances. Recently, I have been going to the gym to try and lose weight (I am overweight, 170 pounds 5’2″ if that helps) and since I have been going, the pain has been getting worse. I knew it was from adding even more pressure to my flat feet but the veins on top of my feet are now protruding more and it’s painful to stand for more than a couple of minutes. It sounds weird but the best way to describe it is that my veins have moved from their usual spot. An hour or two after exercising, the redness I have goes away and the pain lessens but it’s still uncomfortable. While the veins on both of my feet are now more visible, my left foot has a specific part of the vein that will turn into a bubble if I put any pressure on my toes or if I pull my foot up towards my knee and leg and that bubble forms right on the top of my foot. My right foot has a vein that is swollen and dark purple and I can clearly see it from the top of my foot towards my large toe. Since this all started because of being more active, I was hoping it would get better the more often I exercised but it doesn’t seem like it. I don’t know if this can all be resolved by buying a specific type of footwear or shoe insert or if there might be something more serious going on.
Elizabeth: The “bubble” in the vein could indicate a number of conditions. Bulging of the vein could be caused simply by muscles pressing up against it, or something serious. As far as the footwear goes, in any case you should be wearing comfortable and supportive athletic shoes to exercise in – the better the quality, the more protection they’ll give your feet. As you have flat feet, we also highly recommend that you see a podiatrist to have custom orthotics molded to support them. We’re happy that you’re managing your weight with exercise – you’re working in the right direction, but you have to protect your feet.
Hi,
I am a runner and recently I’ve got a pain on my first metatarsal, big toe knuckle sort of area, that is only felt when I’m wearing shoes. I can’t precisely pinpoint the area of pain, theres no sweling or bruising and I can walk barefoot, with no pain, but can only wear shoes that are laced up very loosely. I can wiggle my toes with no problems. Any suggestions? Thanks
Densylm:
Are you by chance developing a bunion? http://pafootdoctors.com/bunions-symptoms-and-treatment/
forgot to mention that the bend of my foot to my ankle is also the major point.of.pain.
I have a soft lump on the top of my right foot. its excruciatingly painful to turn my foot to the left at all. if I lift my foot up behind me and kind of take pressure off it it hurts. I can walk on it cuz I.have no choice but its very painful. the pain is mainly on the top stretching downward toward my toes. I don’t know what to do
Randi; Your symptoms are consistent with a number of problems: fracture, sprain, tendinitis, nerve entrapment, and a few other things. You really need to see a podiatrist as soon as possible to get it resolved.
I am 18 and i rarely exercise but starting yesterday the tops of my feet really hurt and its mainly while im walking and then the pain subsides after i am off my feet for a little while and i dont know why because i haven’t had anything happen to injure myself.
Caroline: You clearly have injured your feet in some way, or they wouldn’t be troubling you. Can you be more precise about what area on the top of your foot hurts?
Oh sorry its the area above my two first toes about halfway up my foot.
Could your shoes be laced too tightly, or simply too tight, rubbing or irritating your foot? That’s a classic problem in that area of the foot.
I’m a runner–last night I awoke with excruciating pain in my right foot. It came on all of a sudden with no warning signs. It hurt to touch, move or even attempt to walk on it. It was a constant pain and would not relieve until I finally took two Tylenol. I pin pointed the pain to the top of my foot and the crease between my foot and leg, where it bends. My husband believes I was pointing to a nerve last night. Today, I am able to walk on it, however I must either limp or walk on the outside of my foot. I’m unable to apply full pressure. Can you help with a diagnosis or what to do? Before this, I had not run for 2 days with no problems.
I forgot to add, that there is a bruise on the top of my foot also, that I discovered this morning.
Traci: You’ve clearly injured your foot in some way if there’s a bruise. I assume the bruise is in the same area that you indicated your pain was? If so, you may have sprained your ankle. As a runner, it’s essential that you get this looked at by a podiatrists asap so that it heals correctly and doesn’t give you trouble down the road.
hi, Im currently having horrible foot pain in the top of my feet. The top of my feet are red and a bit swollen. I can barely walk on them, let alone stand on them. I did slip and fall on ice this morning, could that be why my feet hurt? And what can I do to stop the pain? i have ice on them now and took pain meds, but the pain meds aren’t working.
Raja: It sounds like you may have a fracture. Please get medical attention immediately.
Hey, I have a reoccuring pain on my left foot directly above my pinky toe and half way up my foot to my ankle, its a tense sharp throbbing pain, it comes and goes for days at a time…
Amy. You may have fractured the 5th metatarsal, which is the bone that runs to the small toe. But it also oculd be a number of other things, such as tendinitis. The only way to know for sure is to have podiatrist check it out.
hi, for the past few days i have had a pulsing pain from the top middle of my left foot that seems to pulse into my ankle, i seem to notice it more when im off my foot but i think that is only because my mind is occupied when i up and moving around, the other thing is on my right i have the same kind of pain that throbs from the back of my right ankle on the right side that also pulses but seems to shoot up the leg to the side of my calf, could this be all nerve assosiated, it is constantly bothersome and while the pain on the right comes and goes during the day showing itself more at night when im trying to relax (not saying it is not there in the day) the left foot pulses on and off all day long, never seems to go away and is an ache kind of pain, please help
Rhona: Sounds like your feet are suffering an overuse injury – are you overweight? Sorry, but we needed to ask. Feet, ankles, and lower legs are put under a lot of stress when they’re carrying more weight than they were designed for. Your pain could indeed be nerve associated, but it could also be from fatigued tendons, arches, or metatarsals, assuming you haven’t fractured something. The only way to know for sure is to get an exam from a podiatrist.
I am slightly over weight, 180lbs 5ft 6, there has been no injury to my feet but i do suffer from reinards phenomenon, i also get alot of spasm in my feet where they ramp up and kind of curl in, i then see the tendons by my toes twitching, i have herniated discs in my neck and back, and nerve damage in upper and lower extremities, but this constant pulsing pain is new and unberable
Rhona: The Raynaud Phenomenon wouldn’t be affecting you in this way, to the best of our knowledge. In light of this new info about the nerve damage and the herniated discs, your pain could certainly be caused by nerve damage or nerves being pinched. Unfortunately, we can’t give you more detail than that, as a pinched nerve anywhere along your spine could present pain anywhere in your extremities. Please see your physician for a diagnosis, as this could become quite serious.
All of the little bones on the top of my foot feel like they are broken. The pain is unbearable and it almost makes me want to vomit.I haven’t injured the foot so what could be the cause?
Tammy: If you have pain, you have injured your foot. If you have pain that severe, please seek medical attention immediately.
Hi, I have a really bad pain on my left foot. It’s upper side by the pinky toe. It’s very uncomfortable to walk on and painful?
Socorro: Your pain could be from a number of things: shoes that don’t fit properly or the early stages of a Tailor’s Bunion to name two reasons. It’s difficult to know precisely without seeing it. Please see a podiatrist for an evaluation, and until then, ice the sore area, rest and elevate your foot, and use ibuprofen or naproxen (advil or aleve) to control the pain.
Hi,
I have a pain in the top middle of my foot (above the arch) in my right foot and pain on the left side of my right shin. My foot hurts to run and walk while the shin is mainly only sore to touch. I rested for a week and started running again and the pain has no subsided and has started at the same spot on my other foot. Is this too serious? What can I do?
Thanks in advance!
Wldref: When pain appears in the same area of the opposite foot it would indicate that you’re favoring that foot and shifting weight off of the sore foot. Pain above the arch could be metatarsalgia, or a number of other conditions. Tough to tell without a diagnosis. Please see a podiatrist for an evaluation, but until then, ice the sore areas, use aleve or advil to manage the pain, and rest. Also make sure you’re wearing quality athletic shoes to pad and support your feet properly.
I have very recently developed pain in my left foot that starts where the ankle meets the top of the foot, dead center, and radiates to my toes. Pulling my toes back, raising my toes up (heel on the floor) and walking causes no pain but if I extend my toes downward, foot downward (below the heel) ans if standing tip toe, the pain is immediate and severe, like an electric shock and then cold numbness. There has been no injury and symptoms came out of nowhere.
Charles: A band of tissue wraps around your foot in that area. Your symptoms perfectly describe an overuse injury of that tissue – could be caused from being overweight, or you may have damaged it while exercising. Ice the area twice a day for 20 minutes, wear shoes which don’t apply pressure to that junction, and use anti inflammatory pain meds like advil or aleve to control pain. If the problem doesn’t subside in 2 weeks, see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
Hi, the top of my left foot is in pain somewhere between the pinky toe and middle toe. It started just when I woke up yesterday and it still hurts today. It hurts when I walk and even when just sitting down. It hurts when I apply pressure at the ball below my pinky toe. Like others, I don’t have insurance. What can I do other than seeing a doctor first?
Kalvin: If you can’t afford to see a doctor, we recommend using over the counter meds like advil or aleve to control the pain, elevating the foot whenever possible, and icing the sore area at least twice a day.Also make sure you’re wearing shoes that support and pad your feet properly – in other words, high quality athletic shoes.
It was almost a month ago when i fell asleep on my neck funny and when i woke up my left leg from about my knee down was numb and a lil around my neck well my foot stayed numb for about seven days like when you fall asleep on you arm anyways i had neck pain for a while went away but still feels like i lost a lil feeling on the back of my neck and my left leg now hurts on top of my skin almost like sunburn or my leg hair being pulled i have feeling can move everything sometime i get sharp pains and spasms in leg im thinking maybe nerve damage
Chris: Sounds like you have a pinched nerve. Normally not serious, but you should see your physician for relief.
I have a bump on the top of my foot where it bends. It was Smaller but now double the size. It hurts to touch and this morning it hurt while lying in bed. Not sure if I should be concerned.
Brenda: A painful lump is definitely not a normal development. Please seek advice from a podiatrist as soon as possible.
I have this horrible on and off pain on the top of my foot, in the middle, and it only hurts when im sitting down, relaxing or laying in bed, but when im up on my feet, it doesn’t hurt. it started maybe a couple months ago, any suggestions on what it might be?
Meghan: Those certainly are curious symptoms. If you’re diabetic, it could be the start of diabetic peripheral neuropathy. If you’re not diabetic, possibly arthritis or tendinitis. We highly suggest that you see a podiatrist as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis. Problems addressed early are easier to resolve than those that linger.
My pain occurs whenever I try walking upwards or downwards…on stairs for instance or walking up or down a hill. It’s across the top of my foot & it doesn’t bend. I’m walking like Frankenstein. Flat surfaces doesn’t bother me as much.
Kris: Your pain could be the result of a stress fracture to one or more of your metatarsals, or irritation of the joints which connect them. I’d recommend seeing a podiatrist as soon as you can.
On the top of my foot just below my little toe I have terrible pain if pressure is put on that area. This has been going on over six months. It does not hurt when I walk or jog. I can move my toes an nothing hurts, there is a little pain when I do foot raises with my toes.
Kent: You may have a Tailor’s Bunion forming, or an overuse injury. Difficult to tell from your description. Please see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
I have this KILLER pain when I walk on my foot after I got a massage at a sketchy place in Chinatown LA. It’s def on the dorsal part of the foot. It hurts even just sitting here. The most pain is in the middle of the foot on the dorsal side toward the small toes. Hurts when I curl toes especially. I don’t have insurance, how much would it cost to have an office visit? Or can I just skip a visit altogether and rest rest rest?
Jesse: If you don’t have insurance, you can first try resting the foot and applying ice to the sore area.Over the counter pain meds like aleve or advil will also help. However, if this fails to resolve your pain in 2 weeks, we highly suggest you see a podiatrist.
The top of my right foot has been hurting off and on when I step on it. It seems to be random and only affects my being able to walk for 10-30 seconds. I have not changed shoes or walking/running habits recently. Its a stabbing feeling, but it also feels like someone its twisting the bones in a knot.
Dani: Any pain as severe as you describe should be checked out asap by a podiatrist. Can you be more specific about the area of pain?
Its right in the middle of my foot. Its not really closer to my toes or my ankle, but centered. I’ll occasionally feel the same pain on my arch, but not as often. I’ve been told I have Achilles tendinitis and I’m not sure if that is affecting anything else even though the new pain isn’t near my heel.
Dani: Your pain could indicate a number of problems, but it’s probably from an overuse injury – tendons and joints are irritated for some reason. Your Achilles tendinitis may be indirectly causing the pain in your midfoot, because we tend to shift the way we walk, stand, and run when we have pain in one area. That puts pressure on another area, which causes irritation of those structures, and pain then develops there as well. First, take care of the Achilles tendinitis, because if left untreated, it’s going to get much worse. Use over the counter anti inflammatory meds like advil or aleve to manage the pain and reduce the inflammation. Ice and elevate the sore area whenever possible.And by all means, wear a quality pair of athletic shoes whenever possible. The support and padding they provide will do wonders for relieving your pain.
The top of my left foot below my big toe has been hurting for the year. Some days I can’t bend it to put on a shoe and have to wear clogs or sandals depending on the weather. I have broken my ankles 3 times and have permanently swollen ankles, but this pain is constant so I don’t believe it’s gout. Can you help me? By the way I only wear flats now as my toes won’t allow me to bend in a show with even a little heel.
Cathy: We’re really sorry to hear about the condition of your feet. Please see a podiatrist asap for a full assessment of your condition. As far as the joint of the big toe is concerned, it certainly could be gout, but could be a number of other problems as well, including arthritis – rheumatoid or osteoarthritis. Beyond that, without actually seeing your foot, it’s difficult to guess at what the problem might be. Elevate the foot as often as possible and apply ice to the painful area.
Help- every single day- since I had to stop running in July due to a minor plantar facitis injury- my feet are killing me. I have gained some weight and want to lose some again due to the inactivity. Anytime I go for walks- if it’s just around town or cross country with the kids, by the time I’ve sat down for 10 minutes and walk afterwards I have to limp to where I want to go. It doesn’t matter what shoes I wear (boots-Adidas-vibram minimums)it hurts afterwards. The more I walk the more it hurts- at night I am sometimes frozen in place, crippled in pain and have to hold on to walls and banisters to walk. I am 35 years young- how is this possible?
Laura: Sorry to hear about your pain. Where exactly do your feet hurt? Hard to give advice without more specific info.
If you imagine wearing an anklet- the front area around my anklet would be most painful. Especially when I apply pressure in a seated or standing position or roll my foot out wards.(apply pressure to the outside of my foot. It is as if my ankles are not aligned correctly? Maybe too much pressure on the outside ankle? No clue. My arch gives me no problems whatsoever.
Laura: That area where your leg joins your ankle contains a lot of soft tissue, which is vulnerable to all kinds of injuries. Many women experience pain in that area from wearing high heels too often, or twisting their foot when wearing high heels (like stepping off a curb and rolling your ankle). You should definitely see a podiatrist to make sure you haven’t done any serious damage. Until then, elevate your ankle whenever at rest, ice the sore area, and use ibuprofen or naproxen to relieve the pain. Also wear a good pair of athletic shoes whenever possible to give your foot proper support.
Hey! I’ve had this problem that it hurts on top of my foot. I usually only feel it when it’s late and it’s worse after showering. I do have flat foots so I got these specialized things in my shoes to make it better. I use a pair of winter style shoes which is flat on the bottom. I also sometimes when walking a long distance or going barefooted at home have this pain under in the perfect middle. feels like some kind of cramp or schock. help please?
Peter: You’re describing a few different problems. When you get pain late in the day, it suggests that your foot is becoming fatigued from overuse. People with flat feet have little to no arch, so having custom orthotics would go a long way towards relieving your pain. But you also say you have pain on top. You didn’t give us enough info to even take a guess, but as a rule of thumb, rest and elevate your foot whenever possible, ice the sore area and use over the counter anti inflammatory meds like ibuprofen or naproxen to control the pain.
I have high arches and over weight. Every time I walk a lot in dress shoes I wake up with my right foot in severe pain and it’s very hard to apply weight when I walk. This has happened a couple of times before. Is this just caused from wearing the wrong shoes and being over weight or is there worse problems?
Jared: Depends where your pain is. Dress shoes are notorious for having very little arch support, so if the pain is in your arches, see a podiatrist and have custom orthotics made – they’ll make a world of difference. Over the counter inserts may help a little, but as everyone’s arches are different, they’re hit or miss. And of course, a weight management plan would help as well, as it would relieve some of the pressure on your feet.
It hurts on the top of my foot more towards the right side of my right foot from my ankle to my toes. I felt ok when I went to bed, minor foot fatigue from walking a lot, but noticed when I woke up my foot was swollen and pulsating with pain. I just hope it’s not something worse other than just the shoes I’m wearing. I’m having to walk on crutches.
Jared: Have you seen a doctor?
Hi, I just woke up and for the past 2 hours my right toe of the foot is in so much pain! The pain is from my ankle to my pinky toe. I haven’t been active lately and I know I didn’t injure it. Could it be some sort of muscle cramp? This has never happened to me and I can’t even stand to take a few steps on it. Could I have possible slept wrong on it?
Jessica: We doubt that you “slept wrong on it”. If the pain persists, please see a podiatrist – your pain could be related to any number of conditions.
Hi! I have also been having a problem with the top of my right foot, near the ankle. It is fine when walking long periods of time. But when I stand up to begin walking, after sitting, I feel terrible pain. Sometimes I have to stand on the foot first for a couple mins, before taking off. It is a sharp pain when there is applied pressure like sitting in an indian style position. I am overweight and I wear loose athletic shoes everyday. With a new job its getting harder to run on command. When off work, the pain subsides for two days until the work week begins. Tylenol does nothing, gonna start with ibuprofen and ice since you recommended it. I will let you know how the remedies work. Thanks for the helpful insight!
hi, im a chef here in tasmania, australia, currently working 38-42 hrs a week on hard floors. Just recently in the last 3 months, both heels start really hurting after about 4hrs on my feet, and as the hours go on (usually do a 8.5 – 9 hr day) the top of my right foot gets so very painful, when i get home i sit then when i get up excruciating pain goes through the top of my right foot, i cant bend it either left or right as it is very painful. My shoes are not tight, my feet don’t swell, but i see like fluid building just before my big toe, very puffy. I limp and hobble, ice helps a bit, rest helps a bit, but it is just the same routine again the next day. please help 🙂
Natasha:
It sounds like you have a few problems going on. Most notably, it sounds like you’ve got plantar fasciitis in both feet, the most common cause of heel pain. This is due to the hours you’re spending on your feet. If you happen to be overweight (we have no idea), it will worsen this condition. Secondly, it sounds like you have either a fracture or strain of your first metatarsal, the longest bone in your foot. The swelling near your big toe may be associated with the metatarsal problem. So what can you do?
First, we have to recommend that you see a podiatrist immediately for a diagnosis. Until then, the first thing you must do is buy shoes which support your feet properly, due to the amount if time you’re spending standing. This would be a good pair of athletic shoes with proper padding in the soles and good arch support. Not flats, not high heels, not dress shoes of any kind. When you’re at home, elevate your feet and ice them – the cold will help with the irritation of the tendons. And when you need it, take an over the counter anti inflammatory like ibuprofen or naproxen. For more info, check out these posts: Why your shoes are killing your feet and Why does my heel hurt?
I hope you can help, I started having pain on the top part of my right foot. The pain starts at the bottom of my big toe and follows what I assume to be a tendon. I also have something that is moving in the same area. If I put my hand/fingers on top of my foot below my big toe and move my big toe you used to hear a cracking noise but now you can literally feel something inside my foot moving almost like a rubberband stretching or breaking. Have you ever heard of anything like this and what do you think it could possibly be? Of course it’s the weekend and there aren’t podiatry offices open.
Jennie: Please seek medical attention from a podiatrist immediately. It could be tendon damage or a fracture, our best guess without an examination.
Hi there, today i was at my football training, i train 4 times a week for the academy i play for. I got a dead leg, which hurt alot at the time and still does now. I continued training and everything was fine until i got home and starting to feel an excruciating pain in my left middle metatarsal. The pain is still here now in my foot and is pretty much unbearable to walk on! Are the dead leg and the pain in my foot linked in any way?
Paul: What do you mean by a “dead leg”? No feeling at all?
This is what a dead leg is, http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/health_and_fitness/4284462.stm
Paul: Thanks for the terminology, not a widely used term here in the States. They most likely are two different injuries. You should have the foot looked at immediately, if you plant to continue training, as more stress on that foot will make it much worse. It could be anything from a stress injury (irritation and inflammation) to a fracture.
The top of my left foot is very sore. It is sensitive when I am wearing shoes..and the shoes are not tight on that area. It hurts when I stand and at times it feels like a shooting pain from my foot up my leg to my knee and hip area. Have been to peds and sports med specialists. What else can I do?
Leslie: What advice did your doctors give you?
I am having a considerable amount of pain on the top of my left foot closer to the ankle and after looking at the anatomy of the foot would say the pain is over the cuneiform area. There is a small swollen area/lump over area where 2nd & 3rd metatarsals meet cuneiform, but does not feel like a cyst (does not move or fit descriptions of what I have read). Definite pain walking, but also while sitting. Use of OTC pain relievers hit and miss. Rarely wear lace up shoes, but when do laced loosely. Pain on extension not flexion. Am overweight, but working on that. Pain has been ongoing +/- 1yr. Do not have insurance for podiatrist visit any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Dawn: Your pain could be caused by something serious, but more likely it’s what we call an overuse injury. The soft tissue is irritated. This could be from not wearing shoes with proper support, or as you pointed out, your weight. It’s impossible for us to go deeper than that without evaluating you. If you can’t afford to see a podiatrist, use ice on the sore area when your foot is at rest; elevate the foot at rest; use over the counter anti-inflammatory meds like advil or aleve; wear properly fitting athletic shoes as often as possible; and manage your weight.
Thanks for the prompt reply East Penn, I appreciate the information. Did forget to explain that pain feels deep, not just topical and no real pain when area is pressed. I unfortunately have had more than my fair share of orthopaedic issues so I am the owner of a CAM walker (refurbished about 4 times since 1993 if that tells you anything) so I thought I would try it out to see if I could get any relief and wore it a bit last night and this morning. It did seem to help, I guess because I am using the rocker motion rather than heel-toe? Would use of the CW generally be okay or if there is a more serious issue could cause more problems? I have had a fractured (R) 5th metatarsal before and pain feels similar, the deepness of the pain. I will work on getting to podiatrist. I know xrays will be called for but will want as few as possible due to cost; your suggestions for best angle and quantity of views? Want to go in w/prepared knowledge so xray tech doesn’t get picture happy with my foot. Again, I really appreciate your insight and your taking the time to do this says a lot about your practice. Your patients are very fortunate!
Dawn: Thanks for the compliments. The CAM walker is probably of benefit because it’s providing a cushion to the underside of your foot. Shoes from an athletic or orthopedic shoe store will also provide that relief. We can’t comment on if it’s okay to use the CAM walker long term or not, as we have no idea of your medical history. X rays should be focused on the area of your pain, but they might want to take a full foot xray, which we would also suggest. Good luck!
Dear Eastpennfoot,
I have a constant pain in my right heel, when I push on it really hard it causes a charlie horse in my right calf. This has been going on now for month and very annoying. I thought it was my shoes but it doesnt matter which pair I wear its the same. I have also purchased over the counter the heel supports.. Those were a waste of money.
Donna: From the symptoms you describe, you may have done some damage to your achilles tendon. We highly recommend you see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
I have pain on the top of my right foot all the way to my big toe. If I point my toes, it’s extremely painful. Additionally, some of my other toes on that foot go numb sometimes during the day. On the same foot I have been having a problem with what the doctor described as plantar faciitis. (sp) I have a hard time believing that that is the only problem with my foot. I have pain on both sides of my achilles tendon down about 2 inches up my leg and around my heel right above the ground. The bottom of my food hurts on the heel, but more toward the inside edge of my heel. Not the center of it. I also experience pain in the bottom of my heel if I try to turn my foot from side to side. Any ideas?
Jennifer: Your heel pain symptoms are indeed consistent with plantar fasciitis. But the pain on the top of your foot sounds like it’s being caused by something else. The numbness is particularly troubling. Have you seen a podiatrist?
I work in retail and recently I have been having a lot of shifts as cashier. This means that for five to eight hours, I am twisting from right to left as I bag peoples’ purchases on the turntable at my left side. There is a mat at each register to give us something softer than linoleum-covered concrete to stand on, but the edge of this mat is a quarter-inch thick, with no taper and the mat has a skirting over the soft part extending two inches all around – this is to prevent tripping on the quarter-inch thickness of the mat.
Without realizing (until the next time I had to stand on the mat), during one eight hour shift, I was very likely standing with my foot half on and half off the mat, which put my left foot on a bit of a downslope position. I didn’t fall, I didn’t trip, I didn’t drop anything on my foot. The only likely culprit is the constant twisting and turning, and/or standing on the edge of that mat.
I have developed a pain on the top of my left foot, at the base of the arch and between the upper ends of the second and third metatarsal bones. When taking a step, the top of the foot hurts as it bends at the ball of the foot. It’s only walking, though. Standing on a level surface causes no pain or discomfort. Sitting and bending my foot and toes in every direction with no weight on it doesn’t bother it a bit. I can find the sore place easily if I explore the top of the foot with my fingers 😀
My question is, how long can I expect this to take to heal? It’s been hurting for a week, I have no insurance and there is no way to avoid my next cash register shift unless I want to get fired.
Marty: Sorry to hear about your troubles. Your injury probably isn’t serious, it’s what we call an “overuse” injury – basically fatigue and/or irritation. When you’re off your feet, alway elevate the sore foot. To control the pain, use an over the counter anti inflammatory like advil or aleve. When you’re at home, apply ice to the sore area 20 minutes on / 20 minutes off for two hours.
If you do all of that, and don’t make the same mistake at work again, your pain should subside within 2 weeks. Good luck!
Hi, I’ve been having pain on the top of my right foot around the 4th metatarsal near the base of my toes for about 4 months now. The pain seems to move around some, but is usually felt around that spot. If I push on that area it feels a little tender but no significant pain. There is no swelling or bruising and I have no memory of injuring it. I think it began in the summer when I was wearing flip flops a lot but when it started hurting, I quit wearing flip flops and started wearing supportive sports-type sandals and sneakers.
There has been no improvement – it seems to be getting worse. I have come to expect some discomfort when I take a step although it varies in intensity. I got a surgical boot from Amazon in an attempt to help protect it since I couldn’t afford to go to the doctor at the time, but it didn’t seem to help. It even seemed to hurt worse when I took it off at night and took a step or two. I was careful to wear a high supportive sneaker on the other foot so my feet would be as even as possible but I still felt strain in the my lower back and hip from walking in it.
What do you think?
Pat: Sorry to hear about your pain. If you have strain in your back and hips, your feet are not being supported correctly, which could be the root of your whole problem. Custom orthotics can solve that.
Our best guess without examining you is that the metatarsal or tendons, ligaments, etc in that area are injured from overuse in some way. Definitely could be from flip flops. We recommend you see a podiatrist, but if you have no insurance, or can’t otherwise afford it, try icing the area when it hurts – 15 minutes on, 15 minutes off, for 1 hour, a few times each day. Also, keep it elevated whenever you’re resting, and use anti inflammatory meds like advil or aleve to control the soreness.
Always wear high quality sneakers with plenty of cushion and support, and you might benefit from a supportive insole – we always prefer custom orthotics, but if you have no insurance, that’s probably off the table.
Hi….. the last few days i have had really bad pain in and around my toes. When i bend my toes or even take a step my foot hurts and i get a shooting pain up my leg. And when i’m sitting down resting i have a weird tingling feel through my leg like its about to fall asleep. I haven’t done anything that i can think of to hurt myself except one night i wore heels for maybe half an hour. I was just wondering if there was something i could do to help it or if i need to make an appointment to get it checked out.
Tami: Your symptoms describe a number of possible conditions, from a tendon strain to a fracture, or nerve impairment. Yes, we absolutely recommend that you see a podiatrist as soon as possible for an assessment. In the meantime, elevate your foot whenever possible, ice the sore area, and use over the counter pain meds like advil or aleve to control the pain.
If I step on the ball of my foot I will getting a stabbing pain on the top where the metatarsal are to the point it hurts to stand eventually if I massage it and stay off it goes away. It can happen just walking or standing it will hit. It hurts to turn my toes up and out. I have never had foot problems in the past and haven’t done anything to my knowledge to injury it. y idea what it could be?
Sundi: From your description, you might be suffering a minor fracture or an overuse injury called metatarsalgia. These problems can pop up as we age, wear high heels often, or otherwise don’t wear footwear that supports our feet correctly. We recommend that you wear flat shoes or athletic shoes whenever possible and see a podiatrist for a full assessment to make sure it’s not something more serious.
Hi! I’m not sure if this has been covered already but I guess every foot problem is kind of unique! The top of my left foot has felt bruised for maybe 3-4 months, when I tighten all my toes together, I can feel the tender pain on the top of my foot. The pain isn’t unbearable but definitely uncomfortable. If I press on the top of my foot the bruise/soreness originates about an inch away from the joint of the toe next to my big toe. Any help/insight would be appreciated! I plan on making a podiatrist appointment but I wasn’t sure if there was anything OTC that I could treat it with first! Thank you!
Russell: Your pain could be any number of problems: strain from overuse, nerve entrapment, or the beginning of crossover or overlapping toe. Without an exam, it’s impossible for us to recommend any otc products, except rest, ice, elevation, and otc meds to control the pain.
Hi, my name is Laura an I’ve bin having pain in the top part of my foot. It doesn’t hurt much when I walk but when I wear shoes that require laces the pain shoots up my leg. I’ve bin having to wear flip-flops. It hurts when I bend my toes but when I bend them back is when it shoots up my leg. My parents really don’t care to take me to the doctor and the weather is getting cold so normal shoes are needed. I’ve bin putting Ice on it and its too soon to tell. Please help:)
~Troubled Tean
Laura: First of all, please ditch the flip flops, as they’re probably making your problem worse. They offer no support for your feet. It sounds like you may have some tendinitis, assuming there’s no fracture. You really should seek medical attention from a podiatrist. If that’s not possible, rest and elevate your foot as often as possible. Ice the sore area. And use over the counter anti-inflammatory medicine like ibuprofen to control the pain. And by all means, buy a good pair of athletic shoes to support your feet properly.
Hi, i am a competitive volleyball player and about a month and a half ago i sprained my right ankle pretty bad. It still hasn’t healed 100% but ever since then the top of my foot has been very tender and hurts. The pain shoots up all the way to my shins, and it simply hurts to walk most of the time. I know that my shoes are not tied to tight, so i dont know what the problem could be. Any ideas of what could be causing my pain
Savanah: The answer is in your comment – your sprain hasn’t healed, and you’re continuing to demand something of your foot that it simply can’t give. As a result, you’re probably causing more damage to not only the original sprain, but also the surrounding tissues which are now being asked to do much more work. We highly recommend you see a podiatrist asap to get proper medical care.
Hi, my wedding was on Friday the 18th I wore heels for about 10 hrs . I would sit but I was constantly up on my feet. By the end of the night my feet were very tired and swollen. Today Monday my lef toe hurts on the top of the nail if i press pressure on it. Should i be worried about this?
Naya: Congrats on your marriage! Troubles with your toes are all too common from wearing high heels for long periods. We would be concerned if there was discoloration accompanying the discomfort, or intense pain. Give it a few days to rest – and don’t wear high heels – elevate the foot, ice if necessary, and take advil or aleve (ibuprofen or naproxen) to control the pain. If it doesn’t resolve in about 3 days, please see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
Thank you!. Thank you so much, I hope my toe gets better soon if not I will definitely go to the podiatrist
For the last few days, there is a spot on the top of my foot, around where the cuneiform and navicular bone where it is tender. It seems to be just SLIGHTLY swollen, so slight I might just be seeing things. I am a competitive athlete, so when any kind of injury comes up I try to catch it and take care of it as soon as possible. I’m a competitive figure skater, so could my skates have something to do with that? Does this sound like something that could get worse over time or something I should be worried about?
Izzy:
Considering the location and the nature of skates, yes, pressure from the skates certainly could be making that area tender. On the other hand, there could also be some soft tissue damage from overuse. Athletes have all kinds of challenges when it comes to their feet. If you have no pain, it’s probably nothing to worry about, but we strongly urge you to see a podiatrist just to make sure. Every athlete should have a podiatrist on speed dial to address foot and ankle issues quickly. In the meantime, ice the area, elevate the foot, and use advil or aleve to manage the inflammation.
Hi I’m a football player and I’ve been having pain on the top of my foot recently. Whenever I step onto the field and begin to run, my foot starts to ache on the four ligaments next to my big toe on the top of my foot. Also, I have incredibly high arches so my foot also has a lot of pain there too. After practicing football or having a game,the top of my foot still throbs when I get home and rest. Then when I wake up the next morning I find myself limping because it hurts so much. I have a scheduled appointment with the podiatrist but it’s not for a while, so do you think you can help me figure out what’s going on?
Nicolas: It sounds like your foot is suffering what we call an “overuse injury”, which is very common among athletes. We’re glad that you have an appointment with a podiatrist, because overuse injuries can eventually lead to torn ligaments, fractures, and nerve impairments. Our guess, assuming it’s nothing more than overuse, is that your podiatrist will recommend custom orthotics to support your foot, which you should definitely have, considering your high arches.
The top of my foot hurts and I haven’t hurt it anyway I can think of. It does this every few weeks and it gets so bad I can’t walk on it for a day or two. But every time I go to the doctor they do x-rays and say there is nothing wrong with it. And when it does this usually my foot swelled. Any ideas?
Justin: If your doctor found nothing broken or sprained, you may be suffering an overuse injury – the tendons, muscles, or joints are becoming irritated for some reason. First thing to look at would be your footwear – change to wearing good athletic shoes as often as possible. Make sure they fit well and have plenty of padding, like a quality running shoe. If the doctor you’ve seen for your complaint isn’t a podiatrist, please see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
the top of my foot has been hurting for a few months now. i work two jobs and currently go to school and a two year old at home. so its very rare i get time to sit. i have both throbbing pain while just sitting and throbbing pain while walking nothing on my feet, what could this be?
its also more in the middle of my foot
Nick: The “all over” pain you describe may be stress on the muscles, arch, joints, bones, and tendons from overuse. If you’re substantially overweight, and/or if you’re wearing shoes that don’t support your feet correctly, even the simplest every day walking and standing can cause pain. Our first suggestion would be to rest, elevate, and ice your feet whenever possible, although we understand the limitations of that from your comment. Also use a pain med like advil or aleve to manage the pain. Secondly, get a good pair of shoes – athletic shoes, preferably – that will support and pad your feet correctly. Lastly, please see a podiatrist for a thorough diagnosis to see of anything more serious is going on. Good luck!
Hi I have a sharp pain on the top of my foot at the base of my toes hurts when putting pressure on it and occasionaly get a shooting pain but I have no swelling or bruising what could it be
Lauren: If there’s no bruising or swelling, it could be just a minor irritation. This is especially common if you’re wearing flip flops or other footwear that doesn’t support your feet well. Elevate your foot and ice it, and use over the counter pain meds to control the soreness. If the pain persists, please see a podiatrist for a diagnosis.
hi, im currently 30 weeks pregnant and just a few days ago my left foot began to hurt , its on the top central but is spread more to the left side/top. while my whole foot is swollen but not a balloon just puffy hurts pretty bad.. every time I stretch my toes it makes a cracking feeling in my foot.. and hurts worse and worse the more I walk.. wanting to see if I can self treat it. and if anyone knows what it is before I go to doc.
Kelsey: Foot disorders are one of the great joys of pregnancy :). Fortunately, foot pain during pregnancy is usually alleviated after delivery of your baby. However, it’s very common that pregnancy results in flat feet due to the sudden (but natural) weight gain. Until your baby is delivered, elevate your feet whenever possible, and use ice to control the pain. However, check with your obstetrician to see if it’s safe for you to use pain medicine, and if so, which type. And encourage your significant other to give you a foot massage whenever possible.
Hi. Often when I wake up in the morning, as soon as both feet hit the floor, they ache across
the front (bridge) of my foot. Very painful for the first 15 to 20 steps. Afterwhich, the pain just kinda goes away. I am a fit walker, and this happens 2 to 3 times during the week.
Beverly: Sounds like you may have an overuse issue called metatarsalgia. You could also have arthritis developing in the joints of your foot. It’s a positive thing that the pain goes away after a few steps, but it is a warning sign. Are you wearing good athletic shoes when you walk? Sufficient padding helps enormously for overuse injuries. If the pain persists, please see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
I do irish dancing and I was dancing yesterday when the top of my foot near the big toe second toe and third toe really started to hurt. I cannot put any weight on it let alone dance on it, I have no idea on how to treat it either, any help would be appreciated. Thanks.
Amy: Sounds like you may have a fracture, or may be suffering from an overuse injury. This is a common complaint among dancers. First, elevate and ice the sore foot and use over the counter pain meds of your choice to control the pain. And we wouldn’t suggest dancing for at least 2 weeks to give your foot time to heal. If the pain persists after resting your foot for two weeks, or if it intensifies, please see a podiatrist for an evaluation.
My left foot on the top had horrible horrible pain….its swollen looks kinda bruised small area on top….can barley walk or move my foot or toes….I have no insurance so my only options are self help and the er… But our er is about a joke….any help or idea what this may be? Oh I was wearing tight socks for about 2 he’s….. Help!!!!!!
Brittany: We’re so sorry to hear about your pain. From your symptoms, we would guess (but only a guess, not official diagnosis), that you may have fractured or broken your foot. I would try and call your doctor or an urgent care clinic and see if they’ll work with you on paying cash. Some practices are extremely generous in this regard and offer a significant discount if you pay day of service. But we have to emphasize that if your foot is indeed broken, it’s important to get it set correctly and immediately to avoid trouble down the line. Good luck!
Hello, i have been having pain on top of my right foot. I had a previous injury, and the pain never went away. The ER said it wasn’t fractured but, my two toes next to my big toe are numb, and the middle of my foot still hurts. Can u tell me what is wrong, and the pain shoots up to my knee.
Jasmyne: Numbness, if not caused by a fracture, would indicate that there’s pressure on a sensory nerve somewhere in your foot. We can’t give you an accurate diagnosis over the internet, so please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
I’ve been having pain the past few weeks in my right foot, it’s on the top in the middle near where my leg starts. I can remember any type of injury happening recently. It hurts when I walk and move my toes, but not terribly. Just achy.
Chelsea: You may have suffered a minor sprain of some sort, as easily as stepping off a curb and rolling your foot slightly. Please see a podiatrist for a diagnosis, and in the meantime, elevate your foot whenever possible and ice the sore area. Use over the counter pain meds when needed.
Hi i have had pain in the top of my foot near the middle and i know i havent tied my shoes too tight. it’s been painful to walk on im ok to walk on it if i dont bend my front toes. but still i cannot put complete pressure on it. the pain is dull up my leg. (the right foot and right leg)
Thanks!
Kayla: the are of your pain would suggest that you might have a fracture. We highly recommend you see a podiatrist as soon as possible. In the meantime, elevate and ice the sore foot whenever possible and use over the counter medicine like advil to manage the pain.
thanks i wasnt sure what it was and i didnt think it was much so i wanted to ask before i went to the doctor because i have to pay out of my pocket for it again thanks 😀
My daughter is 8 years old, and complaining of the top of her right foot hurting. She is in tumbling and dance. She wasn’t wearing sneakers while tumbling, but now because her foot was bothering her she started to wear a good pair of Nike sneakers. But still is bothing her. I know I need to take her in, but any idea on what may be the problem??? I’m worried.
Katie: Her pain could be a symptom of anything from minor muscle or tendon soreness to a sprain. Please have her see a podiatrist as soon as possible, because it’s essential that children have their foot and ankle injuries treated correctly so they heal correctly. After all, they’ll be spending the rest of their lives on those feet.
I have just started going to a gym every day for the past two weeks and today I was walking down the high street i was wearing flip flops and it felt like a cramp in my foot top and bottom. It now feels like a throbbing contin spasm that is making me limp. Help it’s so painful. It hurts all the time so bad it makes me feel sick.
Caroline: First of all, ditch the flip flops, they’re terrible for your feet. If the pain is continuous, you may have fractured your foot during your new physical activity. The only thing we can tell you is that you should see a podiatrist (chiropodist in u.k.) as soon as possible for an assesment
I have this unbearable constant pain in both of my feet from my ankles to my toes, the pain is more intense in my left foot and my ankle, foot, and toes constantly pop and crack they get very stiff and the pain gets worse until I move it around until it makes a loud very painful but yet relieving popping sound. It hurts even more to stand not to mention walk on my feet. The top of my left foot is very swollen from right below my ankle down the top almost all the way to my last three toes. What could be causing this? Should I stop cracking/popping. Please help me.. Any helpful advice is greatly appreciated.
Jasmine: You clearly need medical attention immediately. We suspect that you may have multiple fractures. If you allow the pain to continue, in other words, let the problem persist, it will only get a lot worse. Please make an appointment with a podiatrist today.
Thank you for your reply. I also have a very sharp pain that shoots down my tendons in my foot and through my toes when I try to move my toes. Would that concur with the same thing causing the swelling, pain, and popping?
It may be from the same problem, but it’s impossible to diagnose you from a post comment. If you live in our area, we’d be happy to see you. If you live elsewhere, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible, as your problem sounds very, very serious.
I ve been walking for about 4 months recently i’ve started havign pain on the top of my foot it would swell a little on the main vein on the top i can barely bend it or touch it its the left foot only on the outside of the foot toward the pinky toe. Please help
Teka: Your symptoms are indicative of a number of possible conditions. Have you seen a podiatrist?
Hi East Penn,
I had significant pain in the metatarsal area on my foot while training for Boston ’13. My pain was ultimately caused by tight calf muscles and over striding, among other issues. But while I addressed the root cause, I came up with an insert that slides between the shoe tongue and the laces, redistributing the pressure points of the laces. This helped me continue my training uninterrupted by preventing the rubbing and pressure applied on specific tendons. In case it can help your visitors, this is my website where I show the product I’m making: http://www.Foot-Rx.com. -Scott
If i knock the top of my foot, even very gently, the pain is excruciating. It’s fine at all other times, no pain in movement, walking/running/climbing stairs. Any suggestions?
Yve: That’s very odd, and we wouldn’t venture to diagnose you over the internet. But we suspect it may be a fracture. Please see a podiatrist at your earliest opportunity.
I’m 18 and reading this article, it seems I might have extensor tendinitis but the thing is I never wear tennis shoes that are too tight. I always wear flip flops. Could this be a cause? The pain is only in my right foot. Please help?
Priscilla: Unfortunately, flip flops are absolutely terrible for your feet, as they offer no support and you have to scrunch your toes constantly to keep them from falling off. You might be interested in reading our post on flip flops: https://eastpennfoot.wordpress.com/2013/07/26/flip-flops-far-from-foot-friendly/. If you don’t want to wear shoes every day, at least invest in a pair of sandals with excellent support in the sole and arch and straps that hold them in place.
Thank you for the quick response. I will definitely look into a nice pair of sandals and try to keep the flip flops just for the pool.
I’m 13 and I have been have pain on my right foot on the top for a week it hurts to walk help?
Jennifer: Sorry to hear that you’re in pain. There are lots of reasons that the top of your foot might hurt that much, and the only way to know, is for you to see a podiatrist so they can give you an evaluation. Have you been participating in sports, running a lot, cheerleading, or anything like that? When the foot hurts, elevate it and put ice on it and take medicine for the pain like advil or aleve. But please see a podiatrist soon.
I’ve been getting pain the last week or so on the top of both feet, as if it is tender. When I take off my shoes the pain goes away. I’ve laced my new shoes so that the laces cross over the ankle section and the toe section, skipping inbetween and this has helped greatly.
Dawn: It sounds like the top of the shoe is creating the pain. Are you sure they fit correctly?
Yea, while they are new shoes, my old ones did the same but they never used to until a week ago. Its kind of strange. Its the laces from what I can tell.
The top of my right foot has been hurting me and the pain goes up to my shin I have not been walking a lot and my shoes are a half size bigger but it only hurts when resting and its killing me what can I do please
Julie:
Your symptoms could indicate a number of conditions: torn ligament, fracture, or sprain. Without an exam, we can’t get much closer than that, unfortunately. Please see a podiatrist for an evaluation as soon as possible. In the meantime, use advil or aleve to manage the pain, and elevate and ice the sore area when necessary.
Hi there! I’m a waitress and started wearing compression socks after I noticed bruising on one of my legs. I’m wondering if the foot part of the sock is too tight as I’m noticing excruciating pain on the top of my feet after long shifts. I wear an athletic shoe along with an insole but it feels loose enough so I’m wondering if it’s the socks. Thanks for any advice you can give.
Charlene: I don’t believe that the socks would be causing severe pain in the top of your foot. It’s more likely that you’ve suffered a stress fracture or a nerve entrapment, not uncommon for folks who spend lots of time on their feet. Please see a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation, as your condition will not improve without treatment.
Recently I started dancing again. After 10 years of raising kids I am teaching classes 5 days a week now. I have been sore but nothing too bad until this week, I have started having horrible pain in the tops of my feet! I am using muscles in my feet that have not been used in ages. I thought this was just my feet being sore, am I crazy for thinking this, or should I be concerned.
Tara: Injuries happen easily when we resume athletic activity after laying off for a long period. Your pain could be the result of strain from overuse or a fracture. The only way to know for sure is to have an exam done by a podiatrist. In the meantime, rest, ice, elevate, and use advil or aleve to control your pain.
The top of my right foot has been really hurting. It hurts to walk and to touch one part of the top of my foot. Im in ninth grade go and have been doing a lot of marching lately with my band in school. So maybe that has something to do with it. Plus running in gym. Cause I haven’t done anything else that would make it hurt. So is that why?
Mia:
Your pain could be the result of a fracture or what we call overuse – an irritation of the soft tissue. First, if you don’t have them already, invest in a good pair of athletic shoes which fit your feet properly and have plenty of padding. Second, please see a podiatrist to have your pain evaluated, as it may get much worse.
And pain shoots up into my shin if i flex my foot up
Thanku for quick response its on top of my foot not painful to touch but pain and rest and when walking… uncomfortable in tight footwear…
Well, it could be an entrapped nerve or a number of other conditions. By all means, you must see a podiatrist to resolve the problem, because it will not go away on its own.
I stepped on my right foot funny months ago at the time very painful i ignored it and it went away every now and then it hurts but still ignoring it but now a small bump has come up and its so painful what is this??
Carly: We can’t specifically diagnose your foot problem without seeing you. Is the pain on the top of your foot? Bottom? Side? Bumps can indicate any number of problems, some serious, some not. It’s in your own best interest to have a podiatrist take a look and give you a diagnosis and treatment plan. One thing we can definitely tell you: small foot problems ignored today = big problems later.
my foot started hurting today, there’s pain on the top of the foot where the toe bones meet as well as radiating minorly to the toes, Also it feel like my foot is constantly cramped though I can still move it. No new shoes and haven’t done anything I know of – though I have also once in a while have pain in the base of my heel that seems to go away after a few hour – once a month or so, Just wondering if I have to go to the doc – hopefully not since I’m not sure if hes seeing anyone since the flood.
Just updating – I felt something shift in my foot while I was resting it and now the pain is greatly reduced though it has stiffened up.
Kerry: By all means seek medical attention from a podiatrist. The pain in your heel is most likely plantar fasciitis and the pain on top of your foot could be cause by a number of conditions.
my right foot has been hurting by pinkie toe down to the ankle I don’t know what I did but I didn’t drop anything on it or fall please help
Amanda: It sounds as if you may have fractured the metatarsal bone. Please seek medical attention form a podiatrist as soon as possible. In the meantime, use over the counter pain meds to control the pain, elevate the sore foot and apply ice if swollen.
Can you help me?
About 5days ago I stepped wrong at work in the grass. Since then I have a limp in my right foot… I didn’t get any swelling but it did hurt but I was in a rush it didn’t bother me. However since then I have a limp and pain on the top of my right foot from the second toe to my pinky toe. I can curl my toes down but it hurts to pull them up and to step off my foot to walk. Any ideas?? I’m trying to find time to go to the dr but I just had a new born a couple of week ago and time is minimal. Is this serious? Or can I just wait it out?
Again PLEASE HELP
J:
Those symptoms could indicate a mild sprain, a fracture, or something worse. Ice the painful area, elevate the foot, and use anti inflammatory pain meds like advil to manage the pain. If you’re still bothered with pain in one week, see a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis.
Please someone tell me what’s going on with my feet. About two years ago my left ankle became swollen over night when I had come back from a trip to LA. During my whole trip I wore nothing but flat sandals and did lots of walking. The first couple of week when I came back I thought it was just a twisted ankle. But, then I wen to get it checked out and my doctor declared that it was a pulled ligament. I don’t think that diagnosis is accurate now because it hasn’t gone away. I did RICE mesthod for quite a while and no progress. The only time I can be on my feet a little longer is if my shoes have some elevation to them (heels, running shoes etc.) My feet starts to swell as soon as I get out of bed and my ankle is always in excruciating pain, sometimes I wear a ankle brace when I know the day will be long and strenious. But now my right ankle has showed some restrcytions as well, when I go to lift my foot up, the crease on the top of my foot between my leg has pain when I bend it up. Please help me Im only 20 yrs. old and all these complications are seriously taking a toll on my life.
Isis: We sympathize. Your pain and symptoms could be attributable to a number of conditions, which may be serious. No doubt the problems in your right ankle are being caused by the natural tendency to shift your weight off the painful ankle, which puts more stress on the good ankle. You need to see a podiatrist, not your general physician for an immediate diagnosis. We suspect that you did significant damage to the tendons in your left ankle which will at the very least require immobilization and physical therapy. It’s been two years since your symptoms first presented, and clearly they are getting worse, so your injury will not heal on its own.
My pinky toe was really hurting friday when I woke up. I didnt do anything to hurt it. But now 4 days later, its all my toes, the top of my foot, my knee and my hip. It is espically bad at night, and only on my right side.
Mandy: Sounds more like a problem with a nerve than a problem with your foot. You should seek a diagnosis from your family physician.
I started feeling this pain for a couple of days and I didn’t noticed it until I slept over my moms house. The top of my foot kept tingling until I was feeling a numbing pain. When my the top of my foot touches anything, it feels horrible. my guess: working with non comfortable shoes can contribute to more than just painful soles .
Kenyetta: You should definitely seek a diagnosis from a podiatrist. Your symptoms could indicate a number of problems, including an entrapped nerve or a fracture.
HI I just saw your site and got interested …… I have this pain on my feet both feet. i have pain on top of my feet but a little bit on the middile part and a little bit of the lower side. I hope you understand what im saying. I can feel 3 bumps on both feet and since i felt those i think a month ago I’ve been haing pains all over the area. cant walk much as it is very painful. its as if I cant move my feet because i feel as if something is stopping it from moving or the bumps are the ones that put pressure on that area . I have gout and taking allopurinol. could this be a gout effect? will appreciate it a lot if I can hear from you.
have a wonderful Sunday.
Maria: You could have a number of things going on. While it could be gout, there’s no way to be sure without a complete diagnosis from a podiatrist. Please seek medical attention as soon as possible.
I was at a lock-in at church and I hit my big toe against a wall shook it off and was fine didn’t bother me for the rest of the night. The next day it was hurting me a little so I just rested it. I had volleyball tryouts a couple days later we did a lot of running and I was barely able to walk on it for the rest of the week its been three weeks and I feel pain from my big toe to my ankle and its swollen I’ve tried the RICE method and it hasn’t gottten better what should I do.
Mercy: It sounds like you have a fracture. Please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.
PLEASE SOMEONE HELP ME. I just went to my doctor today because when I walk it feels like the top of my feet are going to split open. They are not that swollen, but that is the best way I can describe it. I get some relief if I keep constant pressure on them like wearing shoes, but to go barefoot is just not tolerable. I have even been sleeping in my shoes. My doctor was at a loss and put me on Lyrica even though he said if it was nerve pain that is usually on the bottom of the feet. Have you ever encountered something like this before. Any insight would be greatly appreciated as I am just physically exhausted from the constant pain. Oh yes I have also been taking percocet around the clock for the pain and it has done nothing to help with the pain either.
Dianne: Nerve pain can definitely be felt in the top of the foot. We highly recommend that you see a podiatrist, as they/we are specialists in foot disorders and can get your pain resolved as soon as possible. It’s not a good idea to take prescription medicines long term to treat pain, especially percocet, as you may become addicted to it, and the ability of percocet to control pain diminishes over time as your body builds a tolerance to it. Until you see a podiatrist, elevate your feet when you have pain and ice them at 20-30 minute intervals. Normally we would tell you to also take aleve or advil, but your pain seems to be beyond the reach of over the counter medicines.
i was doing homework and my foot was resting on the top of my foot for a while then when i got up to get a drink i felt a sharp pain on the top of my foot when i walk what do i do
Jimmy: Rest it, ice it, take advil for the pain, if necessary. If this doesn’t relieve the pain in a day or two, please see a podiatrist for an evaluation
Sooo my foot hurts really madly from my big toe to my ankle there is no bump but i feel like i should go to the emergency room but i cant convince my mom that it hurts that bad plz help
Kristina: Your symptoms could be the sign of any number of injuries: a fracture, sprain, nerve entrapment, etc. While you may not need an emergency room visit, you should see a podiatrist as soon as possible
My left foot hurts at the top. It has been like this for a like 4-5 days now. I’m not sure what’s wrong because I’m not wearing shoes that are too tight. I have been on vacation so I can’t see a doctor yet. All I have been doing was walking the beaches. Nothing too bad. I haven’t had this happen before. I was thinking it was a knot in my foot though. It hurts to lift my toes, and walking.. please help?
Sarah: Your symptoms could be the sign of a fracture, muscle strain, sprain, many things. The only way to know for certain is to be evaluated at your first chance by a podiatrist. If you’re still on vacation, elevate your foot whenever possible, ice the sore area as often as possible and use advil to control your pain.
Okay soo today i went to work like normal but i figured id wear my flats because i was only gonna be standing for 4 hours…. Well to my surprise after work the top of my left foot started to hurt very badly. It hurts less now, do yu think it could be from me standing in flat shoes n not my normal tennis shoes?
Roxanne: there’s really no way to answer your question without an examination, as the pain on the top of your foot could be caused by a number of conditions. Have you seen a podiatrist?
I just returned to playing volleyball and I have a sharp pain on the top of my left foot only on the bone distal to my big toe. It is irritated even when not in motion but it has a bump and sticks out more then my other foot and the other one doesn’t even hurt. When I tie my volleyball shoes that’s when it especially hurts. But right now it hurts really bad and I’m not doing anything. HELP!
Desiree: That pain could be from a number of sources, but since you have a lump, we’re going to guess that you have a neuroma, which is an entrapment of the nerve. Very common with athletes. The pain will not subside on its own, please see a podiatrist asap.
I workout M-S and do intensive cardio classes twice a week. I had shin splints for a while and purchased a pair of dr. scholls very active insoles. They helped a lot with the shin splints. Anyway last Thursday I was doing a bootcamp class and felt sharp pains first in the heel then in the top of my foot. Friday morning I couldn’t walk. I implemented the RICE method over the weekend and am now able to walk. There is still pain there but no swelling I am able to bend my toes and wiggle them. What is going on? Can someone help me? I have fitness goals I am trying to reach and now my fear is that they’ll be put on pause.
Nikki:
Our best advice to you for the time being is REST. Many athletes overdo it and develop any one of a number of foot problems, all considered overuse injuries. If they ignore their injuries and “push through the pain”, it can lead to very serious injury which does indeed delay their goals. Continue to use the RICE method and take two weeks off. We’d also suggest visiting a podiatrist to have custom orthotics made for your athletic shoes, to absorb the shock and cushion your feet much better than the over the counter versions.
I have just had stent put in heart.and since I have been home I am getting nightly cramps in the top of mt feet why is this or does it not have anything to do with it it just started at the same time.
Wendy: As we aren’t heart surgeons, we can’t answer that question. Wait a week and if the cramps persist, please contact a podiatrist in your area.
Twisted my ankle 8 wks ago. It hurt at the time, but seemed ok the next day. The discomfort was on the top outer portion of my foot. On vacation for 7 weeks – I walked constantly. Every time I bend my toes or walk after sitting it hurts. Sometimes it even hurts when the ball of my foot presses on the floor. What can I do to get rid of this?
Karen: It sounds like you may have a stress fracture, but no way to know for sure without an exam. We also don’t want to give you any medical advice without a diagnosis. But if it’s a stress fracture, it’s very unlikely that it will heal properly without proper medical management. Please see a podiatrist as soon as possible
my foot is very painful when i walk it keeps swelling up i know its the tendons they feel like they are popping over the years ive sprainef foot countless times. im using tubigrip. ive not seen a doc yet cus im dreading they will blame weight and do nothing (im 20st) i need it sorting i feel useless n mother to a 3yr old
Mel: If you let the pain continue it will only get worse. If you fear that weight is the problem, then you should look into a weight management program. But we strongly urge you to see a doc about your feet as soon as possible
Thank You for your very informative web page! My feet have been hurting badly since Monday, I saw my PCP yesterday, and he was less than helpful (I actually just went there to play the insurance game and get my referral). I’m off to the podiatrist in Weymouth, Mass. on Tuesday, and will hopefully get a solution….
Somehow I hurt my foot this evening! I was standing, kind of leaning to one side. (bad posture I know) Then when I shifted to stand straight there was a sharp pain in my left foot. Even after rotating my ankle several times it didn’t go away. Walking to my car was painful, I can’t walk without hurting. I could walk on the side of my foot ok but flat footed, no. It feels like the tendons are hurt, from the outer side and shoots to the toes.
I normally wear sandals outdoors and I’m pretty physically active indoors. I’ve been massaging my foot, put some ice on it and the pain still shoots if I try to walk on it.
What did I do? What happened? I don’t remember injuring myself. No sprain or anything. I have to stand all day at work tomorrow. =(
Kat:
It could be tendons, plantar fasciitis, or a fracture. No way to know without a thorough diagnosis by a podiatrist. Please seek medical attention.
i dropped a metal pan on my right big toe last month and it still hurts. I put ice on it and had it elevated but it still hurts and now the area where it hurts gets tender when i touch it with an object, such as my other big toe or when i wear closed toe shoes. I cant afford to go to the doctors because its to expensive so can you help me
Regina: If you live in the Lehigh Valley, please call our office and we’ll discuss what we can do for you. Otherwise, the only thing we can tell you is that it sounds like your toe may be fractured. Left to heal on its own without proper treatment may result in further problems. Some free medical care may be available in your area, please call some doctors’ offices and ask.
The top inside bone from my big toe to my ankle hurts so bad that I can’t walk or even stand on them. This is both feet
Nancy: If you have that much pain, you need to see a local podiatrist immediately. If you live in the Lehigh Valley, we’ll be happy to see you.
I play basketball several times a week on a competitive level. I have had several severe ankle sprains over the years and still wear a brace on my left ankle. After playing last evening (with no moments of pain while playing), I left feeling fine and woke up with a pain in the top of my outer left foot, towards the top of the ankle. It hurts when I am walking and my foot creases as I prepare to pick it up to step forward with my left leg. It is not sensitive to the touch, but is sore when walking. Any thoughts?
Thank you.
Ryan: From your description, it could be anything from a muscle sprain to a fracture. We highly suggest you get it checked out by a podiatrist immediately, as your foot may require immobiliztion
The tendons on the top of my foot leading to my toes swell, stick out and ache. It happens many times a year. I have injured this foot before, but is it the cause or is it ____?
Also, I twisted myR ankle all the way in and all the way out stepping on a roll of tar paper and had 2 years of major problems after 3 months of being casted (remained swollen, sore and wore 2 different size boots). Now, the ankle keeps retwisting every time I step off an uneven step or even uneven ground. Any hope?
My ankle guy was only interested in giving me insoles and PT did it’s best. North CA. Thanks.
J:
Sorry for your difficulties. The problem with the tendons and the ankle may be related, but you’d need more tests to determine this. When the structure of the foot gets out of balance (doesn’t matter which injury came first), it can lead to injuries in other parts of the foot, due to compensation of other body parts. This is very common in sports medicine and we call it the cascade effect. Physical therapy and insoles after your casting would have been the proper first course of treatment, but it’s odd that your ankle remained swollen after being casted. My suggestion would be to see a podiatric surgeon who can present you with some more options (he/she won’t necessarily prescribe surgery). Sometimes we need a new pair of eyes on our problem to have it resolved successfully. Good luck!
I work at this fast food place, you have to stand on your feet for 12hrs with one or two, five min break. I bought the right kind of shoes and my feet still hurt on top very very bad. What can I do to ease the pain.
You can try icing your feet when you go home, and of course using over the counter pain medicine to relieve the pain. But aside from that basic advice, I wouldn’t be able to comment without taking a look at your feet and determining what the exact problem is. If you don’t live near one of our offices, please see a podiatrist in your area for an exam.
I have pain in both feet at the top when I first wake up and start walking. After a while the pain subsides substantially but the tops of my feet always ache. I have to walk downstairs one step at a time when I first get up but am fine going up and down the rest of the day. What do you think?
Avon: a persistent ache like that may indicate that you’ve fractured one or more metatarsal bones. It could also be a nerve condition. I highly suggest seeing a podiatrist immediately for an evaluation.
That is crazy. I read your post and thought I had written it as it is exactly what I have, the podiatrist thinks it’s the nerve problem, I can’t believe I have so much pain in both Feet, and I have to do the same stair thing. They only thing he said I can do is try not wearing shoes that cover the top part of my feet, ice, advil and stretching exercises. So far no help, and I need to work out everyday, zoomba etc.
Kate: We sympathize. Nerve issues in your feet are extraordinarily painful. Unfortunately, your podiatrist’s initial advice is correct. Stretching exercises (best administered by a physical therapist) and pain meds can be highly effective. If your pain persists however, you may need to see a podiatric surgeon to have the nerve repaired.
The top left side of my left foot cracks constantly. It started about a month ago. My foot felt tight in that area, when I moved it around it released a painful, yet relieving crack. This happened again about a week later. Now, 2 weeks later it cracks almost every time I move it in a certain direction. I am almost obsessed with cracking it all the time.
Chris: I highly recommend you see a podiatrist for an evaluation right away. That could become a very serious problem.
The top of my foot is killing me. There’s a small bump at the top of my foot and the area between my big toe and second toe is numb. It’s a burning pain and I’ve had it for three days now. I don’t want to go to the doctor if this is something that isn’t a big deal and will go away on its own
Sarah: You should seek a diagnosis from a podiatrist immediately. Numbness and burning pain in that area are consistent with Morton’s Neuroma, a nerve condition, and if so, it will not go away on its own. We’ll be happy to see you immediately if you live in the Lehigh Valley
The top of my foot has had pain for about the past year on and off. It’s like right about the arch, like, I kind of feel like theres a bump or bone or bruise sticking out and pushing really hard. My other foot doesn’t have as large as a bump. I’m not really sure what to do about it.
Kebi: Please see your podiatrist as soon as possible to diagnose. If you’re in the Lehigh Valley, please call our office to make an appointment
Have you ever found out what is wrong with your feet? I have the same problem. There’s a knot in my arch and a hard bump directly above it on the top of my foot. I have no insurance so I cannot find out whats wrong I do okay if I don’t have to walk but my feet hurt every day. I take an anti-inflammatory and stay off my feet but still no relief.
The pain in my foot is excruciating at the top, almost where my foot and leg meet, it looks to be a tad swollen compared to the other foot. Is it because basically walked two miles in my converse?
i got that pain right now, I am limping, it was swollen for 2 days but that went down by itself, taking Aleve helps a little.
JoJo: We certainly hope that you’re seeking medical treatment. If you live in the Lehigh Valley, please call our office today. If you live elsewhere, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.