Question
Hello,
I have a protruding bone on the top both of my feet, just below my big toe. I would describe it as a hardened bump, it's not painful to touch but after wearing the wrong shoes it becomes very painful and reddened in that area. I've reviewed sites on bunions, which look as thou they protrude on the outer side of the foot.
I've noticed with bunions it causes the toes to shift inward, I don't have any of those symptoms. I am not able to wear most shoes, since this causes great pain. I'm on my feet the majority of the day, since I work as a waitress. I haven't been able to identify my symptoms with any other foot condition I've reviewed.  

Answer
Hi Jan,

It sounds like you have a condition known as Hallux limitus.  This is a form of arthritis, the wear and tear type.  Typically, you will develop pain with motion and walking/exercise and often will find that the top of the joint will enlarge or protrude.  The joint is actually jamming which leads to pain.

Please see this link for more info and treatments:
http://www.thetampapodiatrist.com/document_disorders.cfm?id=127

Please also see this site, has a good picture and info:
http://www.myfootshop.com/detail.asp?Condition=Hallux%20Limitus

Hope that helps.  Good luck.

Sincerely,

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