Accepted Answer

Hello XXXXXXXX,

 

Welcome to JustAnswer. I'm sorry your feet are so painful.

 

The description of your symptoms sounds like "metatarsalgia", which just means painful metatarsals. The are several causes of this condition, and there are some things you can do at home to try to decrease the pain. Of course, it is also possible that some arthritis is involved as well.

 

The most common cause of metatarsalgia is poorly fitting shoes along with certain shapes in feet and being overweight. However, it is possible to have this condition not caused by any of these. Some people develop a Morton's neuroma that causes the same pain. This is an overgrowth of fibrous tissue around a nerve in your foot.

 

To help alleviate the pain:

• use anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen or naproxen. If you are not able to take these, acetaminophen will help.
• apply ice to the painful area. An easy way to do this is to fill a plastic water bottle with water and freeze it. Then roll it back and forth with your foot while you are watching TV or doing something else in a seated position.
• rest your feet when they are very painful
• wear properly fitting shoes with shock absorbing insoles
• use metatarsal pads. Here is a link with pictures of different types. You can probably get these at your pharmacy or a medical supply store.

You should see your doctor, or better yet a podiatrist for an exam. The above remedies will probably make your feet feel better, but you want to know what the cause is. So, as soon as you can you should make an appointment.

 

Here is a link for more information about Metatarsalgia from Mayo Clinic.

Expert:	Valarie
Pos. Feedback:	100.0 %
Accepts:
Answered:	10/29/2009

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