Question
I think I sprained my foot about 10 days ago. I was slipping off my right shoe (which is a clog for exercise walking). I lost my balance when my left foot was half way out of the shoe and then I put my weight back on that foot and it really  hurt. I hobbled about for a couple days. I noticed the area between the 4th and 5th metatarsals turned red and swelled a little. The tenderness and pain is along the top of the 5th metatarsal. When I ball my toes the pinky doesn't ball up all the way. There is swelling compared to the right. I cannot see the ligaments when I arch my feet. I have been using a medicated pain patch and Aleve for relief. I can walk on it but i seem to have less control of that side of my foot when walking especially in my house slippers. Any suggestions?

Answer
This Chicago & Elmhurst Podiatrist says......

Dear C,

Skip the pain patch-they don't work.
If the toes don't move-suspect a fracture.
Go see a good Board Certified Podiatrist who can take x-rays and give you a diagnosis and treatment options same day for your sprained foot. Most of us are able to do so.
You have an injury that needs a diagnosis-don't wait.
Try wrapping and protecting the area and wear something supportive-like a gym shoe-not house slippers until you see someone.Skip the ER-they will never see a hairline fracture or subtle dislocation.


Hope this helps!

Good Luck My Friend!
Dr George Tsatsos & Svetlana Zats
Podiatrist Chicago 60618 & Elmhurst 60126 Podiatrists
Board Certified in Foot and Ankle Surgery & Orthopedics
New South Loop Location-Chicago 60661
AnkleNFoot.com
Runnersdoc.com
BabyFootDoc.com

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