Question
About 3 weeks ago I stood on a ladder while painting a room for
extended periods over several days and wore shoes with little support. I
did not notice any problems until several days later when I went on my
usual run. At first the pain was where the edges of the ladder rung had
been -- along the ball of my foot and the top edge of my heel and I only
felt it when running. I curtailed my usual running routine but then could
still feel it when walking the dog. The pain has localized to the ball of
foot region, sometimes centered on under the big toe, other times more
under the middle toes. Now I feel it off and on all day. I started using
orthotics with metatarsal support a few days ago. Is there anything else I
should be doing? I am allergic to non-steroidal anti-inflammatories.

Answer
Hi Mary Pat,

It sounds like you have inflammation of the soft tissues around the joints at the ball of the foot.  Arch supports are a good idea.  I would consider ice and a decrease in activity for about a week.  Some light massage will help.

If you aren't better in a week, I would see a Podiatrist.

Sincerely,

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


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