Question
Lately as I take my first steps from seated position I can feel clicking/cracking in the bones of my foot and ankle.  My ankle feels like it cracks after I shift my weight to the ball of my feet.  At first I only noticed the cracking for a few steps, in the evening after periods of sitting.  Now the cracking is more frequent and lasts for longer steps.  Once the clicking stops the discomfort stops.  I don't notice any pain during activity.

Answer
Hi Erin,

Clicking and cracking of the foot and ankle can come from pressure within the joint caused by joint fluid movement.  This can occur with increased activities.  This often occurs after periods of rest.  If there is pain and swelling associated with the cracking then there may be other causes that need to be explored.

Other cause of your symptoms may be foot instability  causing tendons that slide in and out of place or even some abnormality of the joints such as arthritis.

If this continues, I would see a Podiatrist.  You would likely benefit from an x-ray and possibly from custom arch supports.

Sincerely,

Marc Katz, DPM
Tampa, FL
Advanced Podiatry
www.thetampapodiatrist.com
www.tampacryosurgery.com
www.fix-my-foot.com

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