Why does the top of my foot hurt?
Asked 3 years ago
I've recently started experiencing a sharp throbbing pain on the top of my foot. Nothing has dropped on it and I haven't knocked it against anything. Does anyone have any ideas as to why it may be hurting?
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Babafemi Adebajo
Sunday, October 10, 2021
Even without direct trauma, several conditions can cause pain on the top of the foot. Usually, it results from repetitive activities like running, jumping, or kicking. Arthritis, bone spur, extensor tendonitis, and peripheral neuropathy are the most common causes of such pain, and they should be addressed immediately.
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Upstep Team
Thursday, January 30, 2025
A sharp, throbbing pain on the top of your foot can be concerning, especially if you haven't had any obvious injury. Here are several potential causes:
- Metatarsalgia: This condition involves pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, which can radiate to the top. It may result from overuse, improper footwear, or high-impact activities.
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the foot, such as the extensor tendons that run along the top of the foot, can cause sharp pain. This may happen due to overuse or repetitive motion.
- Nerve Entrapment: Conditions like Morton's neuroma involve nerve compression between the bones of the foot, leading to sharp pain and sometimes tingling or numbness.
- Arthritis: Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis can cause joint pain that may be felt on the top of the foot.
- Gout: A form of arthritis characterized by sudden and severe pain, often affecting a joint in the foot. Gout attacks can cause intense pain and swelling.
- Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes that are too tight can lead to pain on the top of the foot, especially if you're just breaking them in. To reduce strain on your feet while wearing them, you can use custom-made orthotic insoles.
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