Question
Hello Ms. Yaussy,
I think I have some form of arthritis in my foot.  Inside the ball of my foot.  It's particularly painful when I don't wear shoes.  My feet are perfect outwardly, never having worn fashion shoes.  I've put myself on a week's course of Ibuprofen and it helps a great deal.  Can I carry on taking it?  Is there any treatment I should ask for?  I'm aged 59 and in good health otherwise.  Not taking any other medication apart from fish oil.  Thanks a lot. Jane

Answer
See your doctor for a complete diagnosis of your pain and to discuss the use of anti-inflammatories.  Even the over-the-counter ones can have side-effects and may not be the right thing for someone with other conditions (I can't take them due to kidney disease, for instance.)