Pain on the top of your foot when walking usually stems from extensor tendonitis or nerve damage. Let's explore these possibilities:
Extensor Tendonitis
Extensor tendons connect muscles in your lower leg to the bones in your toes and foot, enabling you to lift your feet and toes. Overuse, repetitive strain, or sudden injury can inflame these tendons, leading to pain on the top of your foot, especially when walking.
- Symptoms: Pain worsens with activity and improves with rest. You may also experience swelling and tenderness to the touch.
- Causes: Activities like running, jumping, or prolonged standing can trigger extensor tendonitis. Improper footwear can also contribute.
Nerve Damage
Nerves in your foot can become compressed or irritated, causing pain that radiates to the top of your foot. This could be from conditions like:
- Morton's neuroma: A thickening of tissue around a nerve, usually between the toes.
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome: Compression of the tibial nerve at the ankle.
These conditions can cause a variety of symptoms including numbness, tingling, burning, and sharp pain, depending on the location of the affected nerve.
Treatment
Treatment for top-of-the-foot pain depends on the underlying cause. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) are often recommended for minor injuries. Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen or naproxen, can help manage pain and inflammation. In more severe cases, a doctor may recommend physical therapy, orthotics (custom shoe inserts), or other medical interventions. Refer to a medical professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
