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The response to the question below was authored by Marc Mitnick DPM

cronic pain pins and needle feeling lumps on the bottom of my feet

by John
(Williamstown New Jersey)

I believe this all started last year when i was in a work related accident i feel comming out of the gravitron amusement ride where i work at i twisted my ankle really bad i had a brace put on but i still continued to work. Now when we stay away a some of our locations we stay in bunk houses and they have showers, that everyone uses. Well i always use shower shoes in those showers, This all started to happen towards the end of the carnival season, My feet feel like there on fire i get lumps some times not all the times on the bottom of my feet it feels like pins and needles are constantly going threw my feet,also while sleeping it hurts the worst at night time. Its really also hurts to walk on my feet any more. Now i always wore the same sneekers while working running rides and takeing them down also putting them back up, to the point were these sneekers would eventually get holes in them. I mean we still tear the rides down in the rain and set them up also in the rain unless the weather in really really bad then we go home. Now the show that i work on we dont stay on the road like the big carnival shows the show i belong to we go home each and every night of the week unless we are to far to travel then we stary the the location.Please i am in so much pain and our season will be starting back up the middle of march what can i do to solve this problem please help me out thank you very much.


Hi John,
Unfortunately I cannot help you but since this pain has been around for so long and is so severe you really should be seen by a podiatrist. I do not think it is going to resolve itself, especially in an individual who makes his living working on his feet.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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Foot is Numb/Tingling

by Allison
(USA, NJ)

About a month ago I purchased new running sneakers. That same week I got shin splints after I ran(I think...pain in my shins). I iced them for 3 days and it went away. That Saturday I tripped and fell. I might have landed on my left foot/leg, but I don't remember. The next Sunday I went running with my new sneakers and ran 2mi straight. I've been running for over 4 years, but I actually ran on pavement and on the grass/dirt a bit. I usually run at the local high school on the track, because the surface is better on my feet and knees.

That same Sunday, I started to expierence a tingling sensation in my left big toe. I iced it and it felt a little better. THe next day I noticed a yellowish discoloration on my top of my left foot, near the big toe. I noticed when I touched it, I felt the sensation in my big toe. I iced it for the next couple of days, but the tingling turned into a numbing sensation and is now affecting basically my whole left foot. I have iced it and used a heating pad with little relief. It's been a little over 2 weeks and I've never had this problem before.

I am little nervous. I am trying to get in to see a doctor, but don't have health insurance & so I am waiting to get an appt at a clinic for middle of August!

Please help!!

Hi Allison,
It sounds as if you may have done some damage to the local nerve in the area of the big toe, which would explain the local numbness, but if your whole foot is beginning to get numb you need to look elsewhere.
There are a number of places to look. Tarsal tunnel and shin splints would be two areas I would look into. At the bottom of the shin splints page read about anterior compartment syndrome. Since you state that you fell and also hurt your leg, this is a condition that needs to be ruled out. I would suggest you make an immediate appointment with a doctor just to make sure you do not have this condition, it can have serious consequences. Any of the other possibilities for numbness in your foot are more readily manageable.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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numbness & Blue Discoloration on left foot... Numbness up my left leg

by Mark
(Miami)

Three weeks ago I started getting numbness & Blue Discoloration on left foot... And the numbness travels up my left leg. This mainly happens when I am sitting.

Hi Mark,
I have no idea how old you are or the extent of any medical problems that you suffer from, but based on your symptoms you need to see a doctor right away. Your symptoms are suggestive of a circulatory blockage and only a visit to a doctor will confirm that. Do not put it off.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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Tinglling and numbness in both feet up to the ankles.. The toes are red in the morning when I get out of bed, and turn blue when I walk.

by Betty Hgeorges
(Chicago, Illinois)

I am a senior female. I am not a diabetic. My cholesterol levels are normal,and my blood pressure is normal. No heart problem, but I have some emphysema,even though I quit smoking 16 years ago.

I had two tests: The first was a Doppler ultrasound, and the second was a CT scan with dye. I visited a Vascular Surgeon who told me I had plaque bulidup in my toes, and hardening of the arteries in my lower legs. The circulation in my full legs is good. It is poor from the forefoot to the toes.

He prescribed 100mg Neurontin to be taken three times a day for tingling and numbness in the toes. Other than that, he said there is nothing he can do for me.

NOTHING!

I find this unacceptable, and feel that I should seek a second opinion.


What do you think?

Hi Betty,

Neurontin is for neuropathy not poor circulation into the toes. I am in complete agreement with you; see another vascular surgeon. There are medications designed for poor circulation plus you may be a candidate for minimally invasive procedures to improve your circulation.
Do not wait on this.
Good luck.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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NUMBNESS

by BREAD
(SC)

I HAVE NOTICED ON THE TOP OF MY RIGHT FOOT THE BIG TOE GOES NUMB AND A TINGLE SHOOTS THROUGH THE TOE WHEN I BARLEY RUB MY FINGER OVER THE TOP OF IT. WHAT COULD BE CAUSING THIS?

Hi,
When you rub the top of your foot in a certain area, probably at the top of the arch you are hitting the superficial nerve that gives you sensation in your big toe. Read my section on "midtarsal fault", it will further explain the nerve sensation.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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Mortons Neuroma

by Tracy
(Calgary Alberta Canada)

I had three neuromas removed from my right foot June 2008. The pain has gradually gotten worse. I saw my doctor last week who gave me a cortizone shot, which has made it even worse. I can not put weight on it and it burns, stings and throbs. Do you know what is wrong? If so, what can be done? Thank you

Hi Tracy,
More than likely you have what is known as a stump neuroma, which means not all of the entrapped nerve was originally removed. This is a somewhat common problem.
See if your doctor gives denatured alcohol injections, they are usually better for this type of problem than cortisone injections.
Additionally I would recommend and MRI with contrast to make sure there is not some other problem going on in that part of your foot.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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Hammertoes/Capsulitis

Hello Dr. Mitnick,

I was wondering if you could explain HOW hammertoes stretch the ligament. Which ligament is it? This is in reference to capsulitis of the foot and how hammertoes play a role.

Thank you!

Hi,
In an ideal situation toes should lie flat (when standing). If you have a rigid hammertoe, the toe will not be flat but will be bent at the middle part of the toe. This results in the back part of the toe being bent upwards relative to the metatarsal bone (which is the bone behind the toe). Since the back part of the toe is bent upwards it "stretches" the capsular ligament on the bottom. (the capsular ligament is a ligament that surrounds the whole joint). For a good visual of this, see my hammertoe page and go down towards the bottom where I have a short video of a hammertoe operation. DO NOT play the video but instead look how the bones line up; you can clearly see how the bottom of the capsular ligament would be stretched and could cause a capsulitis.
I hope I was clear in my explanation.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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burning and numbness left foot

by kate
(lebanon, tn)

On 1/31 I fractured the fifth metatarsal in my left foot. After five months, the fracture didn't heal. On 7/2 another orthopedic surgeon did surgery to put a metal plate and pins in my foot. I am experiencing burning on the bottom of my foot, numbness where the plate and pins were put in the foot and tingling up the calf of my leg. Why am I having these problems?

Hi Kate,
Without seeing x-rays of where and how the hardware is placed in your foot, I cannot really help you, BUT, these are questions that you should insist your orthopedic surgeon answers.
The good news is that if need be, at some point in time, the hardware can be removed.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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numbness and tingling in the feet

by Joy
(Springfield, MO, USA)

One week ago I raced barefoot on a concrete road for about 10 seconds. Since then I have had increasing numbness and tingling in my feet, especially in my toes and front part of the bottom of my feet. It is worse after laying down and then walking on them. The numbness wears away a little bit after been walked on, but will increase if I walk for a long time. The most numbness is felt in my big toes. It's a similar sensation to having your feet fall asleep. I am a 23 year old fairly healthy female with no history of feet problems.
Thanks for any suggestions you might have!

Hi Joy,

One of two things, both a result of the jarring your body took running barefoot on concrete. One, you may have injured the nerves as they come out of the spinal column (radiculopathy) or you may have a tarsal tunnel. I am leaning more towards the first condition because you are young.
You can try some advil, aleve, etc. (assuming you can tolerate those medications) on a regular basis for 7-10 days in an effort to reduce the inflammation. If it does not go away, you should see a doctor, preferably a neurologist.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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burning and tingling of toes and foot

My husband has recently (one week ago) had an open reduction internal fixation of his left lower tibia and talus fracture. Since the fracture and now more so after surgery he is experiencing severe burning and tingling of mostly his big toe down along the plantar surface of his foot to his heel. Could this be nerve damage?

Tks

Hi,
It certainly sounds like nerve irritation (not quite damage), either from the surgery or, if he is wearing a cast it may be that the cast is too tight.
This would be a situation that you would want his surgeon to be made aware of. There are things that can be done now to prevent this sensation of burning and tingling from becoming a chronic problem.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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shocks in the arch of my right foot

for the past 6 months i have been getting horrible shocks in the arch of my right foot only. they are random, day and night, and some are in long spurts and other times they are short lived. a few times, they have caused a cramping in this area. so badly that i had to pull over to the side of the road while i was driving to wait to pass the pain. stomping my foot and putting pressure on this area seams to relieve the pain. please help!

Hi,
It sounds like either plantar fasciitis or idiopathic foot cramps. The fact that standing on it seems to improve it is highly suggestive of either condition.
You would be wise to see a podiatrist who can make an accurate diagnosis and then offer treatment based on the diagnosis.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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heel pain / also tingly left foot


(OH)

i'm a 46 yr old male. auto tech for 25 yrs. on feet 10 hrs a day. have a healed venous ulcer for 15 yrs on left lower leg / ankle area. last year had venous ablation surgery to help swelling & pain due to incompetent valve in groin area. have had recent heel pain dor 6 months. diagnosed plantar fasciitis & heel spur left foot. recently having tingling sensation in that foot also. been using orthotic insoles for 3 months. have had physical therapy, stretching and exercising. been helping, but still pain and discomfort. doctor mentioned cortisone injection? pros and cons? other suggestions to eliminate pain? thanx

Hi,
I would think a cortisone injection (assuming there are no contraindications) would be a good option. All the bad press you hear about cortisone is from oral cortisone over a long periods of time. Cortisone injections, altho they certainly get into the blood stream, deliver small doses of cortisone to the local pain area. The rule of thumb is one injection per week for a maximum of three weeks, in a twelve month period.
Cortisone works by reducing inflammation. It is an accepted form of treatment for this type of condition.
BTW, if it is your heel that is tingling, your doctor will have to rule out a heel neuroma. See my section on heel neuroma.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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Tingle on the side of my foot

by Amy
(Tennessee)

On my left foot, I have a tingling sensation on the left side of the foot. No toe tingling or pain. No under the foot tingling or pain. Just on the side. It used to come and go, but now it is persistent. I'm starting to feel it on the right foot too. I'm a runner (about 10 years now) and have changed my shoes, but it is still there and it is worse at night. It actually wakes me up now.

Hi Amy,
Sounds like a simple case of a nerve irritation to one of the superficial nerves that run in that area of the foot.
You might want to see a podiatrist who may recommend a cortisone injection in the area that is the most sensitive. If the injection works, it will calm down the nerve and the tingling will stop.
You may also want to check your running shoes or all your shoes for that matter to see if a part of the shoe is not irritating the outside of the foot.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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Morton's Neuroma

by Sharon
(MA)

Had cortisone injection 2x 2 yrs. ago. Quieted down until a month ago when I irritated it by walking aprox. 1 mile in flip-flops, or at least I think that's where the problem began. Since that time, the pain is somewhat worse and different. There is pain under my foot between the 3rd and 4th toes, but there's also pain on top of the foot and hurts to press on the space between them. I also cannot move 4th toe without really intense pain. It has also kept me from falling asleep at night. That toe looks a little twisted toward the 5th toe as well. Could this just be an irritation of the neuroma or a different problem. As long as I have shoes on (no heels) it's manageable, but not in slippers and certainly not bare foot!

(Yes, Dr. appt. next week..soonest I can get in.)

Hi Sharon,
Sounds like a Morton's neuroma to me, but there are a couple of other conditions that might mimic that type of pain, such as capsulitis or perhaps another type of soft tissue growth between the third and fourth metatarsals which are putting pressure on the nerve and giving neuroma symptoms.
Hopefully, your doctor will figure it out.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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tarsal tunnel

by june wilkirson
(Levine,Arizona)

for about 6 1/2 years I have had continual problems with my feet. I have had tarsal Tunnel release surgery in both feet. My left foot is doing much better than my right one. Upon along hard disscion (about 2 years) I had another surgery on removing the enlarged nerve in my right ankle. The nerve was the size of a man's little finger.My doctor told me that it was not normal for a nerve to be that large. The out come of the surgery should be numbness in the bottom of my heel to the ball of my foot. What I don't have is total numbness, in fact it is so far much more painful than it has ever been.It has been 2 months since my surgery,will it ever get any better????

Hi June,
Part of your story is not clear but I will try to answer your question.
Two months is not that long a period of time, so it is not unusual to still have pain, but what you should be noticing is a gradual reduction in pain. If that is not the case, you need to bring the matter to the attention of your doctor. The concern here would be formation of scar tissue or possibly incomplete removal of whatever was putting pressure on the nerve (incomplete release).
If your doctor does not think there is a complication with the surgery, then you might want to consider physical therapy in an effort to move things along.
If you are uncomfortable with the answers your doctor is giving you, then you might want to get a second opinion.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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sporadic short-term foot numbness

Hello,
Here's one that might be of interest...and it's certainly a puzzle for my doctor, neurologist and me.
For some years now and with growing regularity, I have had brief spasms (or convulsions) of what, in symptom terms, might be described as 'footdrop'. By 'regularity' and 'brief', I mean 2 or 3 times a day (late afternoon and evening)and 10 to 15 seconds at the most.

These brief spasms, which tend to run in waves largely down the upper left half of my left foot, are accompanied by an almost complete loss of feeling in most of the side/front of my foot. This loss of feeling is temporary and normality returns almost instantly after each event. There is no pain, though there a distinct feeling of coldness running through my foot and partially up my leg for a few seconds after. Additionally, over this last year or so, I have developed the feeling of a lump behind my middle and fourth toes..there isn't an actual lump butperhaps a small area within my foot devoid of feeling....but no pain.

Three other observations: There is no obvious loss of strength in my left leg or foot despite the fact that this event has happened many hundreds of times. Secondly, there may be some relation to sleep - If I sleep well, the onset of these events is pushed back later into the day; poor sleep appears to result in the problem happening earlier. Thirdly, I have no apparent back problems.

Most conceivable tests have been carried out and nothing is obvious - or even hinted at...... and, of course, what I'm describing might just not be footdrop but merely symptoms resembling it

So, there you go. Any ideas about what to think about next would be immensely welcome.

Hi,
Your symptoms are certainly suggestive of nerve involvement and my "guess" would be either a nerve irritation coming out the spinal column, or a nerve entrapment at the head of fibula, just enough irritation to cause this temporary muscle weakness.
Additionally, the "lump" you are feeling between your third and fourth toe is highly suggestive of a Morton's neuroma even though you do not have the so called classic symptoms.
I am not so sure any neurological test would reveal the problem with your "foot drop" because it sounds like the irritation is so minor, but I do think a neurologist needs to follow this because it may be an early sign of a potential problem.
I think a good podiatrist should be able to handle your forefoot pain.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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Both feet sometimes go numb while sitting or lying down

by Sabrina
(Yuba City, California)

My feet are going numb on me when I lay or sit, it is mostly my left foot. The numbing goes up to my knee on my left side sometimes.I am in no pain.I am a 39yo F, I have never had any feet trauma or back trauma other then my sciatic nerve hurting once in a while. Any Ideas?

Hi Sabrina,
Have your back examined that is where the source of your symptoms is coming from.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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mortons neuroma

by Lydia
(U.K England)

I have been told by my hospital that i have mortons neuroma would you advise to have surgery and are there any complication i should be aware should i go ahead.I am worried because I have suffered with CRPS after hand operation.

Thanking You

Hi Lydia,
Two problems: one, you first need to try nonsurgical treatments for Mortons neuroma and secondly, with a history of CRPS, you should be very careful about consenting to this type of surgery, or at the very least make sure your doctor is aware of the previous conditon and takes a more aggressive approach in your post operative care.

I have had a lot of success with the denatured alcohol injections and because of that success I rarely operate on neuromas.

Marc Mitnick DPM

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BOTTOM OF FOOT NUMBNESS/PAIN

by GREG
(ORANGE COUNTY, CA)

IM A 38 YEAR OLD MALE WITH DIABETIES, HAD BLOOD LEVEL SUGARS IN THE 1200'S (YES, SORRY TO SAY 1,200) AND JUST FOUND OUT I\THIS JULY. I STAND ON MY FEET FOR MY JOB 9 HOURS A DAY FOR THE PAST 20 YEARS AND NEVER NEVER HAD A FOOT PROBLEM (PAIN/NUMBNESS. AFTER FINDING OUT OF MY DIABETIES I HAVE LOST 30LBS AND NOW WEIGH 220 FROM WALKING DAILY AND CHANGING MY EATING... SHOULD FEEL FIND NOW RIGHT! NOW ABOUT A MONTH INTO THIS MY FEET HAVE BECOME VERY VERY SENSETIVE, HURTING WHEN I GET INTO BED WITH THE SHEETS TOUCHING MY FEET AND SHAOWING AND THE WATER TOUCHES THEM, I CANT EVEN STAND TO DRY MY FEET. ITS SO BAD, I SOMETIMES THINK IT WOULD BE BETTER TO GO BACK. I HAVE SEEN A NEUROLIGST AND ONLY RECIEVED PAIN PILLS...HE SAID I DO HAVE SOME NERVE DAMAGE BUT THAT I HAVE HAD IT SO LONG HE THINKS IT MIGHT BE A MATTER OF TIME. IS THIS JUST SOMETHING I HAVE TO LIVE WITH?

Hi Greg,
That is a tough question to answer. Neuropathy is one of the ramifications of uncontrolled diabetes and the more poorly controlled your blood sugars, the greater the damage to the nerves.
Having said that, keeping your blood sugars under control will lessen further damage. In addition, although there is no cure for neuropathy, there are a number of drugs out there that may go a long way to reducing your symptoms. Work with your neurologist to find one that agrees with you. If your neurologist is not inclined to try different drugs, then I would suggest you find yourself another neurologist.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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Numbness in both feet & lower part of legs

by Phil
(Forestville, Maryland)

I have numbnessin both feet & legs. In addition, I have pain in my feet about two out of three days(I am taking Fentanyl 150 mcg/hr. I change every three days. Both the doctors at Johns Hopkins & the VA have told me its not repairable. The only thing they can do is increase the dosage or change me to other Meds which are very habit forming(Fentanyl is habit forming). I am being told that its is a numerious problem. I do not understand what is wrong with me. From this little bit of info, can you tell me what might be wrong with my legs & feet. Phil

Hi Phil,
Fentanyl is some heavy duty pain medication. You owe it to yourself to sit your doctor down and get a specific diagnosis. If they cannot give you a specific diagnosis then insist that they explain what they think you have in terms that you can understand.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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Numb discomfort on the bottom of foot

by Catherine
(UK)

I wore a pair of (backless) kitten heels to my sister's graduation the other day and we had to do a lot of walking and standing. I was in them for about 7 hours. 3 days later I have noticed that the bottom of my right foot (the ridge just underneath my toes and also into the toes) feels slightly numb and uncomfortable and I feel like I keep wanting to wiggle my toes or move my foot so it does'nt feel like it's gone to sleep. There is no pain and it is only in my right foot. I am not sure if this area is swollen- it doesn't feel too disimilar to the other foot to touch, although 'inside' it does feel as if it is swollen. If I walk on it then it sometimes feels like my socks have bunched under my toes and I want to move them to make the area feel freer. I do a lot of running and am concerned that this will also affect this area and make it worse. I recently bought a pair of new running shoes and up until now they have been great which makes me think that it was the high heels which caused this, especially as they have no back to them and I have to use my toes to grip onto them. I virtually never wear heels and thought that these were ok as they are really quite low. Can all heels damage feet and will this get better or should I go and see my doctor?

Thanks very much!

Hi Catherine,
Read my section on Mortons neuroma. It would seem to me that you aggravated the nerve wearing those shoes for such a long period of time. It does not necessarily mean you have a true neuroma at this point, just irritation.
I would avoid running and high heels for 10-14 days, take some anti-inflammatory medication (if you can tolerate them) and see if the numbness subsides; if not you will want to see a foot specialist, because you certainly do not want this to get worse.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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tingling in heel and arch and sore heel

My arch and heel tingle slightly but not constantly and my heel aches as well. When I stretch my hamstring and push my heel out (point my toes to my knee), my heel will tingle a lot more or hurt slightly. This pain is always in the same spot - right at the centre of the heel. The more I stretch out, the sharper it is.

Hi Mike,
It sounds like you have a mild case of plantar fasciitis and you may also have involvement of the the nerve that cuts into the middle of the heel; that is why you get the tingling.
It does not sound that severe but if you are very athletic, or stand all day on hard floors at work, you might want to have it checked out to avoid it getting worse.
Good luck.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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Foot Numbness

by Lily
(Chicago, IL)

Hello, i am a 26 yrs old woman. Last week and a half i had a probelem with my Sciatic nerve on the right side of my body. I went to a physical therapist and to a massouse and also to my Doctor. He prescribed to me a medication called Naproxen for inflammtion of the nerve. Now thru these past days i have been able to start walking again but still limp seeing that I am getting better. My leg does not hurt anymore nor does my lower back. One thing that still persist is that I still have some numbness around my right foot on the right side. from my pinkie toe to the whole right side to my heel. Now i have put ice on it and warm water and i started to compress my foot. But i still get the numbness. What more may i do to heal this faster. Im still on my medication for another week but everything else seems to get better except my foot. Please let me know if there is anything else I can do.

Hi Lily,
The numbness in your foot is probably the last remnant of your sciatica pain. I would continue doing what you are doing and would continue with the Naproxen for another 10-14 days. If you are still having pain, then another doctor's appointment would be indicated.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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toes, feet going numb

Worked out on the eliptical 2 days ago, both feet went numb. Woke up this morning and started doing yoga- middle 3 toes on right foot went numb and left big toe, could not concentrate to stay balanced and had to stop. I'm a dental hygienist and have back problems on the right side, is this the reason?

Hi,
I do not know if your back is the source of the problem but that would be the first place I would look. If the back checks out you may want to look into tarsal tunnel or even a nerve entrapment at the head of fibula bone which would be the equivalent to the outside area of your knee.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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Foot is Numb/Tingling

by Allison
(NJ, USA)

Hi Dr. Marc,

Thank you so much for responding to my question. I am in the process of going to see a doctor, but I don't have health insurance, so it's a bit of a pain. But I've kept off the foot (not biking or running for 2+ weeks) and I've been rubbing it the past two nights & the pain is subsiding. I hope it isn't anything too serious, but I was told when fitted for running sneakers that I do pronate when I run. So after (if) I get clearance from the doctor, I will def being using orthotics on top of the good running sneakers.

Thanks again!

Good luck, Allison

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Extreme burning pain in second toe of my left foot, the more I walk the more it hurts. I have to quit walking to relieve it...

by Christa Hill
(Clewiston Florida)

I have been experiencing extreme pain in the second toe of my left foot. It started a week ago and it is occuring more and more. The top of my foot from my third toe to my pinky toe is sore and stays sore,no too bad. I have had two surgeries on my ankle, first surgery was to repair a pb tendon and the second was to repair the same ankle for fractures. I have a screw and a plate to hold the tendon in place. The tendon would flip over the bone before the surgery.

Hi Christa,
The most common cause of pain in the area of the foot you describe is usually due to tendonitis. Whether or not it has any relationship to the surgeries you have had is difficult to say.
If the surgeries have changed the way you walk then there might be a connection.
I would recommend seeing a podiatrist who should be able to figure this all out.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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Nerve like pain in second tow

by Monika
(Carmel, NY)

Hi Dr.,

I have a pain and it feels like something is twisted when I try to stretch my toes or point them. Sometimes is between the first and second towards the the second one mostly. And it feels like a twisted legament. It's not a constant pain, just when I point or stretch my toes. After the sharp pain, it feels like it's getting numb and then it goes away after awhile. It's been like this for two weeks, but the past two days more intense.

Thank you,

Hi Monika,
Although the toe going numb is suggestive of a nerve irritation your problem sounds more like capsulitis, which is a ligament irritation that occurs in the part of the foot you described.
You can give a few days wearing the shoes that make it the most comfortable, along with anti-inflammatory medication (if you can tolerate such medications) and it may go away. If not, or if it appears to be worsening, I would see a podiatrist.
Marc Mitnick DPM

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ADDITIONAL REFERENCES

Mayo Clinic

Johns Hopkins Medicine

MedlinePlus

Arthritis Foundation

University of Rochester Medical Center

Harvard Health

Drugs.com

American Academy of Pediatrics

Penn State Medical Center

National Institutes of Health

Columbia University Department of Rehabilitation

ScienceDirect

Stanford Health Care

Illinois Bone and Joint Institute

Mount Sinai Hospital

Institute for Chronic Pain

University of Florida Health

American Family Physician

Cedars-Sinai

University of Maryland Medical Center





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Jacqueline

NJ
This was an extremely helpful site. I have an appointment on the 18th and your info. Was right on target…..

Jack

Fla
A well organized site containing much information written in a manner that the average reader can comprehend.

Jean

Ontario, Canada
I found your website and articles most interesting.

Andrew

Fla.
Thank you for a quick response. I think your site is the best information site on foot pain and I have viewed many.

Judy

(location unknown)
I came to your website, footspecialist.net via www.foot-pain explained .com which I think is also your website? I thought explanations for different types of problems were well addressed and thoughtfully stated for the patient in mind.

L.W.

New York
You have an amazing and extremely informative site. I enjoyed looking through all of the data and stats.

Yvette

Memphis, TN
Thanks again so much for the information in the article. Very interesting.

Anna

Scotland
Great article. I have had plantar fasciitis since I was in high school……..

J. Simmons

(location unknown)
Dear Dr. Mitnick, The orthotics arrived four days ago and I slipped them into my shoes immediately. I was skeptical as to the usefulness of the item, they really didn't look very exotic. I have to say though, after using them for just four days, I have experienced grand relief from my foot pain. Even the very first day, I was able to do a lot of work while on my feet with at least a 75% reduction of pain. It has only gotten better every day, and I go nowhere without my shoes with the orthotics. I had been experiencing extreme heel and sole pain for about six months and had to take extended breaks off my feet many times a day as well as regular doses of Ibuprofen. Since getting the orthotics, my life has returned to normal and I feel good again. Just wanted to say thanks for the recommendation for a very effective item, I had no idea what a change this item could affect.

Yours truly,

J.C. Forbes

Tennessee
Thanks for the Response, you hit it on the head.

Steve

Redondo Beach, CA
Thank you for your time and expertise in answering my question…..

LH

(location unknown)
First, thanks for putting together this website. Its the most informative site I have found dealing with foot problems. Last June I started having pain and swelling at …….

Joe

(location unknown)
First of all, thank you for having all this useful information available in one place. I've been through most of your website and based on my research, pain and evaluations I think I've narrowed things down quite a bit.

Pete M.

(location unknown)
Thank you for the best site I have found when researching foot pain.

Glenda B.

Madison, Alabama
Thanks for replying so quickly. I was a bit concerned. I think your website is great, and chock full of info.....

Carol

Denison, TX
Dr. Marc, Thank you so much for your reply which seemed to be right on. I have researched many sites but you put me on the right path to the possible answer. My foot pain may not rule the rest of my life after all! I believe I'll make a sign that reads, "THE END IS NEAR!" Thanks Very Much,

Dawn

West lafayette, IN
Dear sir...no doubt you get positive comments re your site...May I please be added to the list of your admirers. In all of my years of web surfing I would say your site is right there with the very best. Thank you for taking the time to write the terrific info you provide and for putting things into laymen terms for us mere mortals. I pray you have much on going success and thank you again for a deed well done. As for me I did not find much help for my symptoms and will continue on my quest. Were you anywhere in the South I would make and appointment...Thanks again dear sir...m.e.

Michael E.

Tampa, Florida 33624
Hi. This is a great site! I'm a healthy middle aged woman who is in good health, but.....

Kelly

Texas
Just a wee word of thanks for your wonderful website...It is a terrific service...Thank you for providing your knowledge and help...With highest regards, m ebeling

Michael D. Ebeling

Tampa, Florida 33624


Thanks for a most interesting website, which has helped a lot.

Steve

UK


Dear Dr.Mitnick

I usually do my research on the Mayo clinic website. I think your website is the most informative site I have found when researching foot pain.

I thank you for putting together this incredible website.

Regards,

Dragica W.

Edmonton,Canada


....I have been told that it is not hard enough to be cut off. Please help, I am not sure what to do now! THANKS FOR A WONDERFUL AND VERY HELPFUL SITE!

Roxy

South Africa


You have an unusually clear, informative and well-written website for laypersons. Thank you for that.

Matthew W.

Mansfield Ctr, CT


First, I'd like to thank you for all the information that you provide on your website and the opportunity to write to you.

Steve

Placentia, California


First, I want to let you know that you have the best web site I've found related to foot issues. (The only thing I had difficulty finding was the "ask a question" page.)

Unknown

Unknown location


I received the orthotics Monday afternoon and began wearing them Tuesday. After two days I would say that I have noticed a huge improvement in the discomfort I have been experiencing. My foot feels better than it has in months.

Ric J.

Unknown location


I greatly admire someone like you who would donate and dedicate so much time and effort to helping strangers with no compensation. Truly, it is uncommonly kind. And your site is so intelligently arranged.

Ron R.

Pacific Grove, CA


I used to work for a podiatrist (front desk) back during summers in college years ago, so I know the benefits of good care. Again, I want to thank you for an EXCELLENT website. It was so great to get to your site (top of google search) and actually find all the answers I needed EASILY and QUICKLY! Clearly you put a ton of work into it and I really appreciate it.

All the best,

Victoria

Alameda, California


By the way, millions of websites could use yours as a guideline on how to organize information and make the site user-friendly. Kudos to you!

Anonymous


Thank you for your very interesting and informative site!

Anonymous




Hi. I come to your site often looking for information. It is really informative and I appreciate it very much. I have RA and have been having considerable amount of foot pain...... Dee RN


Thanks very much for the wonderful informative site.

Catherine

New Zealand


Thank You for my answer! I have been schedule for a bone density scan, allingment, and I am in the process of getting orthotics made, and checking out the natural remedies. Thank again! What a great web site!

Sincerely

Josette


Yes I want both pair of orthotics. You don't have an option of ordering 2 at one time so I had to place the order twice. Thanks. My husband likes these and wants to put them in all of his shoes. (referring to Superstep orthotics)

Cindy H.

Arizona
I searched the internet everywhere for a clear description and illustration of my symptoms/problem. https://www.foot-pain-explained.com/ was where I ended my search with answers. If I lived in Jersey (left 30 years ago) and didn't live in Florida I would definetly make an appointment with Dr. Mitnick.

Thanks, Kathy

Florida
1st of all THANKS A LOT for your great site......

Anna

Poland
Thank you so much for your response. I will let you know how I am doing if you would like. Your website is awesome!

M P

South Carolina
Hello! I want to thank you for such an informative website! I found you based on my ankle pain search and am happy to realize that there may be a relatively simple cause and solution....

Natalie

unknown location


...Thanks for your fantastic service.

Gary

Arlington, VA


Thank you so very much, that would be much appreciated. I love those insoles, by the way. (referring to Superstep orthotics)

Kelly W.

San Clemente, CA


Dr Marc is fantastic...He seems to know exactly what you are feeling with the problems you are having. I wish he was in my home town so I could go to him with my problems!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pam

location unknown


Great insights! Thanks Doc, you're the best.

Glen

location unknown


I have been experiencing foot pain of various sorts and am working to figure out what it is. I found this site and can only say BRAVO!! What an excellent site! The time it must have taken to put all this together must've been a daunting task! I am sure it has helped so many people. Thank you so very much for doing this.

Bre

location unknown


Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so much for your reply. I did let my physician know and they took an x-ray - all is well! Also, thank you for providing this wonderful site, it is very helpful with lots of useful information! I appreciate your gift of time! God bless.

anonymous




Dr. Mitnick, Thank you, you were 100% correct. The pain finally brought me to the ER. I spent 8 days in the hospital. The Doppler you spoke of was able to show that there was no pulse in that foot. This was an arterial clot that split and traveled throughout my leg. My leg was almost amputated. I am in rough shape but have all my parts intact!! You certainly know what you are talking about. Thank you for taking the time to answer. Yours Truly!

anonymous




Staying at home after hallux surgery I spend quite a lot of time seaching info useful for avoiding problems which might come back. Today I found your site and I am .... delighted it happened. It's one of the best site I found last days.

Anna

Poland




Thanks for taking time to read and answer so many questions. It is truly a public service!

Esh

Seattle, WA


I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!!

Bonnie

location unknown




Also, and importantly, just want to praise this web site. Thorough and thoughtfully presented, it certainly must be of considerable assistance to anyone with a foot problem. Terrific -- and very interesting.I trust the address comes up easily for those seeking information.

Bill

New Jersey




Thanks so much for answering my question. You've been more help to me than my own Dr. has been lately. Thanks again....I hope to be able to walk without pain someday.

Debbie

location unknown




Wow, that is exactly the information needed!!! thank you thank you thank you!!! I appreciate this help so very much from Marc Mitnick DPM. Excellent information and help to improve One's life.

Chrissy

location unknown




Thanks so much for this website Dr. Marc! It is so nice that you have this ask the doctor feature..I'm sure I'ts been helpful for alot of people. I will try what you suggested and see if it helps...thanks again!

Tracy

Evansville, IA




Dear Marc

I just want to say thank you for the quick response and the good info. I find it amazing and a super nice thing that you do here by answering medical questions at no charge.

Russ W.

location unknown




Your website is full of a lot of helpful information, and I am very impressed with the time in which you responded to my post. Thank you again for your time and consideration in your response.

-Sunny.

location unknown




Thank you very much for the information, I will consider it. Excellent web site.

Jackie

San Diego, CA




Dr. Mitnick, Just want to say thank you so very much for your quick response and very informative reply! After reading what you had to say, I called the doctor's office and was able to get in and see him the same day as my injury. Toe was x-rayed and luckily, it is not broken or fractured. Very badly bruised and will probably lose the toe nail. And although my toe and toe nail are still very black and blue and very sore, they ARE both starting to feel a little better. So again, thank you! I am so very happy that I came across your website. The service you provide is outstanding and immeasurable!

Rivi,

Albany, NY




Thank you so much for all of your advice. In searching the web for people dealing with this same issue i can tell you that you are a Knight In shining Armor! If I lived in Jersey I would gladly be your Spokesperson. Hopefully next time you hear from me it will be good news. God Bless,

Jill S.

location unknown




THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH FOR YOUR TIME AND EFFORTS, YOU ARE SO VERY APPRECIATED. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO.

Jackie

Whichita, KS




thanks again, this site is very helpful.

mark

Boston, MA




Like others have stated...This site is amazing and I am so thankful that it was created.

....Keep up what your doing. Your a life saver.

Michelle

Colorado




Thanks again for the information provided on your site. It's easy for non-medical folk to understand your writing, and helps provide better communication between patient and doctor.

annielou

Colorado


Wonderful advice

by: Anonymous

This is the best site for foot problem info.


Thank you for this information. This description fits my pain and inflammation behind my 2nd toe perfectly.

by: Max

location unknown
Again, I really appreciate that you responded to my inquiry, and that your mention of Parkinson's helped me to find my way to a diagnosis of this difficult to diagnose disease. Most patients see on average 16 doctors before they are diagnosed. I hope that you can help other people that ask for your expertise in the future.

Barb D.

Canada
I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!! I have had a fusion in my rt foot and am finally getting a little bit better......

Bonnie

location unknown
Again, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to answer my question....your an angel!

Nancie

Wisconsin
Thank you for your response. You have provided some great insight (to my question)....

Julie

location unknown
Thank-you so very much for responding so quickly and in such detail to my question!! I will give my surgeon a call today!! This website is terrific!!!! Thank-you again!

Renae

North Carolina
Many Thanks Dr Marc!
Thank you for your response. It sounds like a good plan to me. He did not cut the wart out first ...

KG

location unknown


Thanks again doc for having this website and we STILL need qualified Podiatrists in beautiful sunny Tampa Bay (Bradenton) Florida.

Bessie Mae

Florida
Dear Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so very much for taking your time to answer my question. You have greatly relieved my anxiety related to the continual tingly I feel in my feet. I will share your response with my podiatrist next week. God bless you for having this question and answer page on your website! Most gratefully,

Lynne T.

location unknown
Your webpage is excellent, I commend you on sharing your knowledge to the public.

Robert

New Jersey


Thank you. you were more detailed than what others have told me they finally called from the last xrays and my son is now in a cast for 2 weeks he did have a fracture that was not noticeable.

a mom

location unknown


I have read your website and I have to admit that I am amazed at all the information that is on here. I have learned more than the three years I have been going to several doctors that I have seen!!

Melody

Lenoir, NC


Thank you so much Doc for a quick and thorough response!

Rustam

Bellevue, WA


I cannot thank you enough for your response, opinion, and suggestions! I want you to know how much it means to me, and I'm sure everyone else who has ever asked you a question! I feel like you're a lifesaver and have empowered me to take a stronger role and stand up for myself and my feet!

Jodi

location unknown

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