Pain on Top of Foot

Pain in the foot is one of the most common problems experienced by people at some time or the other in their life. There are several causes of foot problems or foot pain and the pain in foot is usually observed in the toe, top of the foot or the heel region. Here we will see more on the causes of pain on top of foot in detail.

Causes of Pain on Top of Foot

In most of the cases, foot pain is caused due to wearing improper or ill fitting shoes. Wearing shoes of pointed toes or extra high-heeled shoes can lead to pain in feet which can even turn chronic. The following are the other major causes of pain on top of foot near ankle or near the toes.

Tendinitis
Injury, fracture, trauma to the related place can lead to top of foot pain. One of the conditions caused due to injury, inflammation or overuse is tendinitis. This condition is commonly seen in older people and the symptoms include pain, swelling and heel pain.

Overpronation
Overpronation or having flat feet is a major cause of pain on top of foot after running. This condition is caused due to excessive inward rolling of the foot when walking or running which exerts pressure on the ankles and knees, leading to sharp foot pain. Obesity and pregnancy can also lead to overpronation.

Hammer Toes
Hammer toe is a natural deformity in which the 2nd, 3rd or the 4th toe is bent in the middle, resembling a hammer. Although a natural condition, in most of the cases, this condition can also develop on wearing tight fitting shoes for a longer period of time. Pain in any one of the toes, pain on top of foot when walking, foot pain from running, etc. are the symptoms of this condition.

Morton's Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a condition that develops when one of the nerves (especially one between 3rd and 4th toes) becomes enlarged or thickened. The exact cause of this condition is not known, however, it is believed that injury or irritation of the nerve leads to this condition. Pain in the ball of the foot, numbness, sharp pain on top of foot, etc. are the symptoms of it.

Ganglion Cyst
Ganglion cyst is a lump that can be formed on the wrist or top of foot. This bulge itself is not painful but can lead to pain when pressure is exerted. The exact cause of formation of a ganglion cyst is unknown, however, trauma or an injury is believed to be one of the causes. Pain on top of foot, numbness, tingling sensation, etc. are some of the symptoms of this condition.

Treatment of Pain on Top of Foot

In case you experience chronic or long-lasting pain in top of foot, you need to consult the doctor for foot pain diagnosis. Stress fractures, bone spurs, nerve entrapment, fault in mid tarsal region, etc. are some of the other causes of pain on top of foot. Morton's neuroma can be treated with the help of therapy, like using arch supports and pads or with the help of a surgery (in severe cases). Overpronation can also be treated with the help of foot support and arches. Treatment of tendinitis includes taking anti-inflammatory medications, using cool compresses, rest, etc. In the initial stage, hammer toe can be treated by using pads, cushions, etc., whereas in later stage, a surgery may be required to correct the condition. Ganglion cyst can be treated with the method of aspiration or surgery. The doctor or the physical therapist may also suggest foot exercises to get rid of pain in foot and ankle.

All the causes of pain on top of foot can be treated effectively with the help of physical therapy, medications or surgery. One is advised not to ignore the symptoms but consult the doctor and get the condition treated immediately. Take care!