Question
Could a stress fracture cause my baby toe not to move?  It hurts when I try to move it...even though it won't move when I flex my foot or spread my toes.
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The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
About 3 days ago my right foot started to ache on top on the outside.  I thought that maybe I tied my shoes too tight or something stupid like that.  But I have switched shoes the past couple of days and the pain has not gone away.  My husband has tried massaging it, but it is too painful.  It sort of feels like a muscle has cramped because it hurts to flex my foot and spread my toes.  Tonight I noticed that my baby toe doesn't move at all, but it doesn't hurt when you move it.  I also noticed that it you put slight pressure on the ball just under my toes, I get a dull pain sensation and then a numb sensation.  The pain isn't unbearable, it is just annoying since I am a mail carrier.  Should I go see a doctor or should I wait a week?  I am 22 and have never had a broken bone, no family history of bunions, corns, gout, etc.  The pain does seem to get a little more "painful" everyday.  Any advice?
-----Answer-----
Jen,

It sounds like you might have strained a muscle in your foot and that may be the cause of your foot pain. If that is the problem it should resolve with some ice, supportive shoes and maybe some Advil if you are not allergic or sensitive to this medication.

However, I would be concerned about a stress fracture of the metatarsal bone especially if the pain is worsening. This can occur if you walk alot.

Other possibilities include a foot neuroma.

In any case, I would see a Podiatrist.  Stress fractures often do not show on x-ray immediately.

Good luck and feel free to ask more questions.
You can get more info on my site:

http://www.theTampaPodiatrist.com
http://www.TampaCryosurgery.com

Sincerely,

Marc A. Katz, DPM
Tampa, FL
Podiatrist - Medicine & Surgery of the Foot & Ankle


Answer
Hi Jen,

Many people have a hard time moving the small or 5th toe of the foot.  The tendons and muscles are not real strong.

If you have toe pain with movement, this could be an inflamed tendon or soft tissue on the top of the foot and could also be a fracture of the toe or metatarsal.

Is there redness or swelling of the toe or foot?

Were you able to get an x-ray?  If not I would consider getting an x-ray at a local Podiatrist.

You can get more info on my site:

http://www.theTampaPodiatrist.com
http://www.TampaCryosurgery.com

Sincerely,

Marc A. Katz, DPM
Tampa, FL
Podiatrist - Medicine & Surgery of the Foot & Ankle