Question
Hi Doctor,

It started in early January with a sudden soreness in the bottom of my left foot, about an inch below the ball of my foot, right under my big toe.  At first, it only hurt when putting on/taking off that shoe or when I walked.  Was diagnosed with gout, given meds & the soreness eventually subsided.  Two weeks later, I had a new pain that literally woke me up. Had a uric acid test done, which was normal. Now, I have a sharp, stabbing pain that lasts a few seconds at a time.  It's deep in my foot & feels almost electrical, like my nerves are short-circuiting for those few seconds.  But, the pain is intense in that short time; on a scale of 1-5 with 5 being the worst, it's a solid 4.5.  Foot is slightly swollen compared to right foot.  I'm diabetic & just started Metformin, but pain began before taking this med.  No other swelling or abnormalities in the feet that are related to diabetes.

Answer
This Chicago, South Loop & Elmhurst Orthopedic Podiatrist of AnklenfootCenters.com says.......

Dear Stacie
Please go see a Board Certified Podiatrist. Sounds like your problem is related to the. It could be a problem with the sesamoids (small little bones)under the first metatarsal head. Or it could be limited movement,arthritis or a bunion of the  first metatarsal joint.
You can go to our online library at AnkleNFootCenters.com for additional information on the above conditions. Your Podiatrist should be able to give you an answer with an exam and a possible x-ray.
In the meantime try PRICE
Protect-Wear a wrap around the big toe joint and limit the movements that aggravate it.
Rest-Speaks for itself-rest it.
Ice- Will help if it is painful and a little with the swelling.  
Compress-Ace wrap if possible
Elevate-Will help if the foot throbs or swells at the end of the day.
Hope This Helps
Good Luck !!!
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Podiatrist Chicago 60618 & Elmhurst 60126 Podiatrists
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