Question
I'm a field biologist and walk an average of 10 miles a day during field season (approx. Feb thru June).  Starting last year (Feb) numbness in the ball of my right foot began just after the beginning of the season and continued through out the season.  The ball of my foot was continually numb until about a month after the season ended.  But even then it continues to go numb when I wear certain shoes.

Answer
Hi Kent,

With all of the pressure you place on your feet, you will likely need better support of the foot arch.  Some people have a fallen or weak arch also known as pronation.  You may benefit from a custom orthotic device made by a podiatrist.  You could also have a condition known as a neuroma which can cause numbness.  I would also see you general physician for a physical to make sure that you do not have another condition that could cause numbness.  This can occur with diabetes.

Sincerely,

Marc Katz, DPM
Tampa, FL
Advanced Podiatry
www.thetampapodiatrist.com
www.tampacryosurgery.com

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