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

Sudden sharp stabbing pain in the top of one foot

by Bob F.
(Los Angeles, Ca.)

I'm a 49 yr old male. 5'6" & 165lbs. In very good health. I exercise 3-4 times a week and do good deal of walking as a part of my job.


After several years in absence last night I was revisited by a very familiar pain. Suddenly and without warning I get a sharp stabbing pain dead center in the top of my left foot. It is a world stopping pain. It will last from a second or two to up to a full minute. This comes in episodes ..... last night the pains came once or twice an hour throughout the night. These episodes last from a few hours to several days. Day or night.... morning or evening make no difference.

Years ago I thought it was related to bad shoes. So I bought the best. No effect..... Many doctors & x-rays later it was thought it might be diet related .....a deficiency in potassium. So I ate a banana a day. The results were mixed. Much exercise along with vitamin and mineral supplements were of little help. After a time it simply went away.

Now it has returned. There have been no changes in diet, activity level or anything.

I fear I'll be walking down a hall and simply collapse form this pain out of the blue. What could this be?

Hi Bob,
I am not trying to pass the buck here but a very sharp pain like you are experiencing is difficult to diagnose without actually examining you.
When people describe sharp stabbing pain the first thought is a Mortons's neuroma. This would occur in the part of the foot just behind the toes, usually the third and fourth toe.
If that is where your pain is then you can read my section on Morton's neuroma, if that is not where the pain is originating from then I think a another visit to a podiatrist would be indicated.
Marc Mitnick DPM

Comments for Sudden sharp stabbing pain in the top of one foot

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Nov 16, 2019
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Shoes
by: Kathy

Are there any shoes that help with this issue?
Just wondering
Thank you
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You could try a laced oxford that has 1.depth to it so it does not impinge on top of your foot, and 2.contains a good arch support in it. If the arch support is not present, you could always purchase an over the counter arch and see what that does.
Marc Mitnick DPM
Nov 12, 2019
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starstarstarstarstar 		Same pain
by: Charles

Bob,
Did you ever get an answer as to what this is? I've had the exact same kind of pain. It's not a Morton's neuroma. In my case, it's on the top of my foot, toward the inside, just about an inch from the bottom of my let. There is no point tenderness there's and no lump, redness, etc. The pain comes on out of nowhere and does not really seem relieved by anything. It's excruciating when it comes, I'd say 9/10. I've had 3 kidney stones and I'd say this is much worse, but thankfully never lasts more than a minute or two. Sometimes it's pulsating, particularly when it lasts more than a few seconds.

I'm not sure how long ago this was posted so hopefully it's still an active thread.
Charles
Jun 22, 2019
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starstarstar 		Worse at Night
by: Lori

I am a 64 year old female with osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia. I was a retail sales rep for years walking around on hard floors with dress shoes on and climbing ladders, dragging posters and other things in bags through malls and big stores. I have had both knees replaced 3 years ago and this pain which is deblilitating started after that so I think it must be nerve damage. I took Lyrica until my insurance company would no longer pay for it and now I just suffer. Last night I only got about 3 hours of interrupted sleep because of the pain. Nothing helps. This just seems to be my new normal and it is exhausting. I live an active life and must have a high pain tolerance because I just keep on going.

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Speak to your doctor about cheaper alternatives to Lyrica, which may make it affordable to pay out of pocket.

Marc Mitnick DPM
Jun 20, 2019
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starstarstarstarstar 		my foot pain...
by: Chris

Thanks Dr Marc for your input! I have seen several drs. I have received injections once but no difference and a second foot dr wanted to do surgery & shave the foot bones down on top. He said it was the largest bones he has seen.I'm not a big person but those bones really protrude. On my left foot I notice my ankle seems to have shifted more toward the front of my foot. The dr showed me on my x-rays. I got a bit freaked out about that type of surgery but this is getting really bad! I must perhaps find another dr. Thanks again for your info! I appreciate it!
Jun 19, 2019
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starstarstarstarstar 		top of foot pain...
by: Chris

Like the other posts I have read, I have 'sharp' pain right on the very top of my foot directly straight through where my arch would be but on top. It comes in waves and every few seconds & it all but takes my breath away. I have extremely large bones on the top where the pain occurs and have been diagnosed with osteo arthritis through x-rays. Would this cause the stabbing pain? It will go away but return at a later time. I notice at times when I take my socks off the pain starts or if the light weight sheets touch my feet in bed it will shoot pain. Sound familiar? Thanks!
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Arthritis on top of the foot may be the most common cause of your stabbing pain, primarily due to the nerves on top of your foot being irritated by the "roughness" of the bones. The tendons on top of your foot may also be involved.
If the pain is severe enough why not contact a podiatrist in your area? He or she certainly should be able to bring you some relief

Marc Mitnick DPM
Apr 24, 2019
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starstarstarstarstar 		Exact Same Symptoms
by: Reece

I have the exact symptoms you described in the dead center of my right foot. My pain episodes come about once a month and last for about 30 mins to an hour with 5-10 stabs that last around 5 seconds each with varying time in between. I'm 19 male. I excersize daily and have no nerve related medical conditions aside from restless leg syndrome.
Feb 24, 2019
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starstarstarstarstar 		Samsies!!
by: OSharonnly

I get this random pain described in the top of my right foot - maybe every other month but sometimes not for months. and its over quickly - no more than half hour at worst. usually only 2 or 3 stabs.

I have a stand up/ sit down desk and vary that daily. I do squats dead lifts etc and walking 2 days week; knee pushups planks, lateral and front raises and walk or bounce on mini trampoline 2 days week years. I'm 67 female, taking no meds, have no conditions.

just sharing.
Jan 30, 2019
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starstarstarstarstar 		Omg what is this excruciating pain?
by: Mary

I’ve read a lot of these comments on the pain in your foot.I Have the same thing going on right now!! My left foot on the outside right under ankle that radiates towards the front!!! Omg the pain feels like electrical shock that lasts for 3-5 seconds and come and goes when ever, it started about 6 months ago I thought it was gone,but it’s BACK!!! If I’m walking and it comes on I can’t walk for that 5 seconds, I actually yell in pain it’s so bad!!!! Please any info will be appreciated, I’m a 53 year old female who is pretty healthy and work out 3-4 x a week, I just don’t get it????
Aug 29, 2018
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starstarstarstarstar 		Fracture and nerve pain?
by: Susan

Hi- I'm a 51 year female with T2Diabetes recently experiencing pain (soreness) on the top of the left foot and massive sharp pain in one toe (the second one)at the tip. Ive read through the comments and my type doesnt quite seem to fit with others. I had a Masionneuve fracture six years ago and lost feeling in part of my foot. I have hardware above ankle joint. The surgeon said I probably would always have numbness, but now I have shooting pain (random).
I'm wondering if it's a coincidence that it's my left foot that was injured or the onset of neuropathy from Diabetes. My GP doesn't have a clue.

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Most cases of diabetic neuropathy affect both feet, so on the surface I would "guess" the pain is from the previous surgery.
See a local foot specialist for a more definite diagnosis.

Marc Mitnick DPM
Aug 15, 2018
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starstarstarstarstar
by: Dr. Mitnick

More thoughts on....

stabbing pain in the top of one foot



As you can see from all the comments associated with this post, pain on top of the foot presents itself in various ways.

It should become clear to anyone reading through this thread, that there can be multiple sources for pain on top of the foot.

As I stated in my response to the original post, it is virtually impossible to make a diagnosis without actually examining the foot, taking a history and perhaps even an x-ray.

I have decided to include some of the more common conditions that may cause problems with the top of the foot and links to the pages that further discuss this problem.

Read through them and see if any better fit your symptoms. However, if your pain is very severe, then a visit to a footspecialist would be the smart move.

Hope this helps.

tendonitis

ganglion cyst

midtarsal fault

nerve entrapment

stress fracture

bone spur

neuropathy
Jul 10, 2018
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starstarstarstarstar 		Oh the pain!!
by: Australia

I’m in my early 50’s, and have several chronic illnesses, including T2 diabetes. I first experienced the sharp stabbing pain in my left foot a few years ago, and I believe my condition is caused by my diabetes, and is exasperated when my diabetes is uncontrolled. Another contributing factor, that could affect the spasms is sitting for long periods at work, and travelling long distances, and this was the case for me last week.

(I’m actually suffering with the pain right now, and it is excruciating! It’s almost 1.00am, and I have a 7.30 start in the morning. It’s going to be a very long day!).

When I visited my doctor the first time I experienced the pain, he prescribed a drug called Lyrica. It was very helpful, and after a short time I ceased taking it, as I changed my diet, and became more active, and didn’t have the pain anymore.

Unfortunately the pain is back again, and I’m planning a visit to the doctor tomorrow to get a script for Lyrica, or something similar.

Here’s a site, that has some information on diabetic nerve pain, and Lyrica.

https://www.lyrica.com/diabetic-nerve-pain/managing-diabetic-nerve-pain

I’m by no means promoting Lyrica, I’m just letting you know what worked for me.

Hope this is helpful.
Jun 05, 2018
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starstarstar 		Any answers
by: Kav

I see years of people saying sharp pain top of foot but see very few answers!!!
May 28, 2018
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starstarstarstarstar 		Podiatrist visit
by: Kathy

I have the pain that everyone has shared. After x-rays and pressing on my foot the doctor believes I have a neuroma. To start with he said to ice my foot on top , use metatarsal pads. This has helped a bit with the day to day pain. Next step will be cortisone shot.
I’ll let you know how this goes.
May 27, 2018
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starstarstarstarstar 		Also experiencing this pain
by: Kellyn

I was desperate for information regarding this pain and found this thread. I had it a few weeks ago, it was quite dangerous because it came on while driving, but then went away. It just started again a week ago. It’s in the top of my left foot, feels like waves of electric shocks like.a very strong tens machine is going through the top of my foot. I pronate badly, worse in the right foot so wear orthotics. I have noticed my shoes are quite loose so wondered if it was something to do with using my toes for balance or something like that. Tonight I switched to a pair of clogs that I often wear inside, but haven’t for a week or so, and immediately the pain took hold in a tendon that runs down the inside from the ankle/shin area of my foot and right along the top of the foot. It was excruciating but I have now isolated where the pain is coming from. I am going to see a physio tomorrow rather than a podiatrist as I am going overseas next week and need urgent help. Will post on how that goes.
May 22, 2018
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starstarstarstarstar 		Sudden Sharp Pain in the top of my left foot
by: Brian

I started getting this really sharp pain in the top of my left foot while sleeping about 2 months ago. I have figured out over time that it only happens when laying on my right side. If I roll over to my left the the sharp pains episodes stop. I have only had it happen a few times while awake. I'm 57yo male with hypertension. Anyway one had any success with figuring this all out?
May 17, 2018
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starstarstarstarstar 		Another Stabbed-in-the-Foot Club Member
by: rsteve

I am an active, 74-year-old, who hikes, bikes, and works our regularly. I have several controlled health conditions including gout, coronary artery disease, and sleep Apnea. I too have had these symptoms randomly. going on now more than two years. They occur several months apart with no obvious trigger, usually lasting only one night, but sometimes two. They always awaken me from sleep with the severe stabbing pain which nothing seems to help. They continue 2-5 seconds repeating in 1 to 2 minute intervals while I am reclining or sitting, but go away when I stand or walk. The attack first began with the left foot and last night the right. Gabapentin prescribed by my DPM only masks the pain and makes me dysfunctional and wonky feeling. Nothing I have found including heat, ice, diet or any medication or combination seems to help except standing and walking. Since it happens so infrequently, and is relieved as I stand and sacrifice only sleep, I persevere and suffer through it. It would be a great relief if someone develops a viable diagnosis and/or treatment.
May 07, 2018
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starstarstarstarstar 		Personal experience
by: Banban

I have been experiencing this pain for a few months now. I’m 25 in decent healthy shape. I wear safety boots for work so all the people that mentioned tight foot wear could most likely be right. I have also been trying to cut out sugar and began the Ketogenic diet. The pain comes and goes at really random times and there only has been one day where it happened almost every 30 minutes. But that same day I did not sleep the night before so I think this pain has to do with not being well rested or stretched out. MY SUGGESTION don’t cross your legs when you sit or sleep, try to eat a healthy diet, do a quick stretch of your foot every morning, try to sit whenever you get a chance to releive stress and vise versa if you work somewhere where you sit for long periods stand and stretch your feet(sitting for a long time could be blocking some nerve in your leg) and try to get as much sleep as possible. Cheers guys.
Apr 09, 2018
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starstarstarstarstar 		Relief from Shooting Pain to Left Foot
by: Patrick

I have had the same symptoms described here a number of times.

The shooting pain stops when I use an inversion table to stretch my back.

I think the cause of my pain is a misalignment my L4 L5 vertebrate.

Go to a store like "Relax the Back" and try one out.

My pain stopped after one 5 minute session on the table.

Good luck.

Mar 10, 2018
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star 		What is it
by: YouGrannyr

I'm 80, both knees and 1 hip replaced, have peripheral neuropathy in both feet. Just started to experience intense electric-like pain jolt in top/side of right foot, going from just under ankle joint to base of toes for the second time. Several ripples per minute. I had this several months ago from 125 fire ant bites on my right foot. This necessitated a trip to ER and cortisone injection and lidocaine cream for bites. The pulsating electric jolts started soon after the initial stings. Now after 8 bites on left leg and 4 on right leg the pulsating electric shock pain is happening every few seconds to right foot. Could it be from ant venom, or from nerve impingement from my arthritic back - I did lift heave fire wood and other things day before yesterday when I got the ant bites. Can't sleep and neither heat nor cold nor topical pain-killing stuff helps.
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The first thing I would rule out is a superficial nerve entrapment on the top of your foot. If your foot is arthritic, when you wear a closed shoe, you may be pressing the nerve into the bone spurs (arthritis) and causing the pain which can linger, even out of shoes.
Why not see a podiatrist and see if that is the case?

Marc Mitnick DPM
Mar 07, 2018
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starstarstarstarstar 		Foot pain
by: ERIN

I had this too years ago and was sent a foot doctor. He told me it was from crossing my leg when sitting. I quit sitting that way and it stopped. It was awful as it felt like someone was shocking the top of my foot or stabbing it with a tip of a knife. It hasn't returned.
Dec 10, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		Shooting and Sharp Stabbing Pain in the top of left foot
by: Frances

I also experienced these intense sharp shooting, stabbing pain on the top of my left foot, behind the 3rd and 4th toes. The pain would wake me up in the middle of the night. I did tried Tylenol III with Codeine but to no avail. It only gave me nasty sight effects. Am taking 1 capsule of Gabapentin 300 mg in the morning and 2 capsules in the evening. This is to prevent muscle spasm on my stomach, thighs and cramps on my legs. I still get the pain on my left foot. But if I take 2 Ibuprofen and .025 mg of Alprazolam, I felt relieved within 2 to 3 hours. The top of the foot is served by a different nerve path and not the sciatic. Therefore, in my opinion the pain is causing by anxiety disorders or nerve disorders. There is no bones or muscles involved. Currently am seeing a doctor regarding this problem. I am 69 years old female and I have diabetes and hypertension.
Nov 09, 2017
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starstarstarstar 		consider piriformis
by: Katy

Have had experience with this localized sudden very sharp foot pain. In my case, it moves a bit between being central and off towards base of 4th toe.
Many people have recommended many different things-- but in the thread I didn't find anyone suggest to look into tightness in buttock muscles on that side, to the degree that the foot pain is almost a 'travelling' nerve pain, a sciatica of sorts.
When I do my exercises for piriformis syndrome, it all settles down.

Easiest one of all is to put a tennis ball inside a sock; hold the upper end of the sock in left hand, and lean your backside against a wall and slowly, gently roll against the ball, feeling into finding sore spots in the buttock, and 'hang out' there with a little pressure. Take your time; don't rush. When you step away from the wall and walk, there's a loosening in the whole leg. Good luck, all! Keep learning.
Oct 19, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		Wow, I didn't expect to find anybody with this
by: Billy

It just started for me last night - (10-18-2017). I just get a random sharp localized pain in the top, almost center of my foot like it's being stabbed. It last a second or two and then stops for a few seconds to a few minutes and then does it again. It'll do this a few times until it stops. I then went hours today without it happening and then it happened 4 or 5 times. It stopped for two hours and I just had it happen again a few times and now it stopped again. So weird.
Sep 24, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		These are my exact symptoms
by: Kathy

So many have described my symptoms. Last week for the second time since January I had a sharp pain in the top of my foot. It felt like a sharp hot object was stuck in my foot. It would last about 30 second s to a minute. It came in waves through the the night. I could not sleep . The next day I had some episodes but not that sharp and long. I haven’t been to a doctor because I don’t know what kind to go to.
Thank you so much for your comments. Any more suggestions would be appreciated.
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Your best option would be to see a podiatrist.

Marc Mitnick DPM
Sep 13, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		Pain at top of foot but only when touched
by: Sandie

I woke one night with an excruciating pain at the top of my right foot, I couldn't locate where it was at first as I prodded and poked to find where it was and there was nothing, it then woke me again in the night as I brushed my foot across the sheet - this was a light touch of the sheet and it caused this awful pain. Over a few weeks I began to find the location and if I stroke the top of the foot there is a point where there is an intense pain radiating to the 2nd toe. Ive now noticed when I walk barefoot there is a tingling sensation from my heel to the under side of the big toe. any suggestions welcome
Sep 10, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		Problem Solved (I think)
by: Will

Been having occasional mild foot pain spikes for the past year or two. I'm a 52 y/o male in pretty good shape. First thought it was poor circulation. Then just in the past few days, the pain level got jacked up to about an 8 on a 1-10 scale where 10 is a severe charley horse leg cramp. Ultimately I discovered that the pain wasn't a completely random occurrence. It could be triggered by stretching my leg or pressing down on the top of my foot. That's when I made the connection to tightness in the calf muscle. Finally I connected the pieces and realized this was brought on by a new exercise routine I started called the A40 for men 40 and over. You can google the YouTube videos. Ironically, I switched from doing just basic crunches to the A40 because I heard crunches can cause neck and back injuries.
Sep 09, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		Short sharp pain to top right foot
by: Gerry

Yesterday I started having short sharp and intense pain in top of right foot, only lasts about 3-5 seconds. I had three or four episodes yesterday, the same through the night, and a couple this morning (UK). Good to hear all the comments, gives some idea of causes, if this persists I will have see my GP to try and get a diagnosis.
Jul 27, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		Wow!
by: Jan

Today I was standing minding my own business in the kitchen when all of a sudden I felt like someone had dropped a hot poker right down the middle of my left foot. I have NEVER felt that intense pain ever in my life. (Even after giving birth 3 times) It almost knocked me over. It only lasted for a few seconds only to return again for 1 last blow. Its good to read these posts and know that Im not losing my mind!! I am now afraid to even walk on it....ugh
Jun 25, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		Top of Left foot stabbing pain
by: Terry

I went to Podiatrist and got xrays. The doctor said nothing seen on xrays other than a bone spur on bottom of my heel. He said very common and not causing my pain. He said it could be a ligament or tendon issue. (Soft tissue issue) is the way he put it. Was told to buy power step insoles online and stretches several times a week to keeps feet loosened up. I will say the stabbing pain when I bump my foot is still there. I guess I will just have to be careful not to bump anything in that spot forever. Other than that my foot is feeling better. Good luck with your issues. Hope this helps someone.
Jun 20, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		Nerve Pain
by: Anonymous

I posted awhile back about the horrific ice pick pain in my feet and like some here I also have back pain as well. The jabbing pains in my foot have been gone for some time now. However even though I am not diabetic I've been tested for neuropathy in my feet and ankles and it was positive. I continued to have generalized foot and ankle pain for several years now for unknown reasons. I recently discovered a medication I took for an ear infection was being accused of being the cause for neuropathy in some people. I remembered when I was taking it I was having strange pains in my ankles at the time but thought nothing in relationship to the medication. The medication I took was Cipro and there are lawsuits concerning it and some other like drugs. Anyone here having pain taken it I wondeer?
Jun 20, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Voodoo Dorsal Syndrome part 2
by: Anonymous

Just an update to let you all know my podiatrist found that I had reduced nerve sensation in the same foot I used to have stabbing pain. He's not sure why but he thinks it may have something to do with my spondylolisthesis. Have your doctor use a 256 hertz tuning fork on both feet to see if you have this, too. It could be an important clue to what causes this condition. Still no stabbing pain but almost everyday I feel a sensation in the exact spot it used to be in.
Jun 08, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		HAPPY AGAIN
by: Donna

I HAVE NOT HAD ANY ELECTRIC STABBING PAIN ON TOP OF MY RIGHT FOOT FOR MONTHS NOW. I RETIRED AND ONLY WEAR SHOES WHEN I GO OUT NOW. HAPPY RETIREMENT AND HAPPY FOOT!!!!
Jun 07, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sharp stabbing burning pain - Top of Foot
by: Daniel

Wow, I have been having a similar pain as most on this thread. Excruciating sudden pain on the top of foot, almost directly between toe 4 and my ankle.

I am 32, and have always stayed active. Not the best diet, but not terrible. This started for me about 3 months ago. I have had several injuries, from broken bones, torn cartilage in knee as well as torn ACL in the same right knee. I have always had a tolerance for pain, at least I thought until this. The pain I am having is in the right foot as well. I know I have nerve damage from the knee surgeries, as the outer part of my right leg has been numb since. However, the surgeries were over 10 yrs ago, and I have never had numbness or pain in my foot. It has plagued my life, causing less sleep and a constant worry about it hitting me. When this first started, like others, it hit and lasted for a few seconds up to a minute, then would stop as instantly as it started. Then several minutes later, BAM!! Here we go again. Then suddenly, without change to diet, exercise, or changing footwear, it completely disappeared for about 2 or 3 weeks. No pain, it seemed to be over....

Then, out of nowhere, while playing with my 4 yr old, there it was. That terrible, tear jerking, gut wrenching pain of a dull ice pick in the top of my foot again. But it is worse now. I didn't think it could possibly get worse, boy was I wrong. It came back with a vengeance!!!

Not only that, now I am having a similar, yet more of burning pain in my right hand. This is in the palm, below my middle finger. Instead of an ice pick, it feels more like a giant wasp sting, or a big needle injecting a burning sensation.

With both, they hit suddenly, last for no more than a minute, and are excruciating! Did this happen with any of you? Or did it stay in your feet? Or does anyone think they are/aren't related? If any other posters return and have answers as to what this may be, I would love to hear it.
Jun 05, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		Top of Left foot stabbing pain
by: Terry

I am 46 and walk a lot for work. I usually wear a good shoe with memory foam. I have started noticing a bad stabbing pain on the top of my left foot only when it bumps something. I can wear a sandal and if it pushes on top of my foot just in that spot it almost makes my eyes water from the pain. My foot isn't swollen and or red. Going to podiatrist soon to maybe get trays and maybe get some answers. I have read some of these posts and I think from a previous doctors visit 6 months ago, I do have high potassium as well as low vitamin D. I will reply with outcome or doctors comments in a week or two from now.
May 07, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		Deficiency in vitamin D
by: Pam

In my post earlier this year I describe the foot pain I was experiencing. A blood test showed vitamin D deficiency. I am now on prescription strength Vit D. 50,000 units per week. The pain has completely disappeared I have just read that Vit D deficiency can cause shooting nerve pain. I believe it is the Vit D deficiency which caused the pain in my case
May 03, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		Is stabbing pain in top of foot a gout issue?
by: Fred

I am a 70 year old male in good shape but I suffered earlier gout attacks in my left ankle. I stopped taking my allopurinol 5 yrs ago and about two three months ago I started suffering the exact type of stabbing pain on the top of my foot. The podiatrist suggested gout and a foot X-ray showed nothing. So I have been assuming it is a gout condition that is very slowly improving. It's been awful in so many ways. I re-started my allopurinol to control the Uric acid which causes gout and now am praying the condition goes away. Like all the other comments the pain is exactly like an ice pick stabbing. Ug!!
May 03, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		Stabbing pain on top of left foot
by: Ron

This is a first for me it just started last night. this sharp stabbing pain can have different intensities.A few days ago I started a new blood pressure medicine that raises potassium levels also been eating banana aday. if potassium levels are to high can it cause this pain? I will back off this medication and see what happens.
Apr 28, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		At Least I'm Not Alone
by: JG

If nothing else, this page has made me feel less alone. I have suffered with this agonizing, burning, stabbing pain on the top of my right foot for years and my doctors just shrug it off when I try to tell them about it. They've even made me feel like it might be in my head. It used to last only a few seconds a few times a day, but now it has gotten to the point where it lasts for hours of misery.

At least reading that so many others have had the same problem helps me to feel less alone and to know that this is something real.
Apr 12, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		no help for foot pain
by: CK

I am 66, in good health and in fairly good shape. I am not overweight. I have had the same stabbing pain others have described in the top of both feet, in my instep. I have had x-rays of both feet and seen a podiatrist. She did not have any answers, although she said I have "structural problems" with the bones in both feet, and she said I have a shortened achilles tendon. This pain started maybe six months ago, at first sporadically. Now it is most of the time, in both feet, including in bed at night. I used to run, but the pain has kept me from running. It keeps me awake at night. I am very frustrated because the podiatrist prescribed a Lidocaine 5% topical patch and offered a prescription for Gabapentin. The patch helped some, but right next to and above the patch the pain kept me awake at night. The side effects of the Gabapentin keep me from wanting to try it. Has anyone taken anything like this? Did it help? I have tried doing a lot of stretching, but I cannot tell any improvement from this. I feel as if the podiatrist does not take this seriously.
Mar 27, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		Remedy for sharp stabbing pain
by: Richard

I have previously posted my remedy for all the stories that I read on these very sharp debilitating stabbing pains in my right foot just above my toes. I take a swig of "Indian tonic water" as soon as i can, preferably within minutes of the attack. The effect is amazing and works within 30 seconds, truly amazing. I have told other sufferers about this and they all report success. My Doctor says the quinine is the active ingredient that works the trick. Try it you might find that this is all you need for relieve, best of luck!!!
Mar 27, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		welcome to the club
by: ron

As below...electric pain .top of foot. Have had gout for last 4 days which has now eased off. Been off the beer this week. Dont know if this has helped but...
the shocks only last for 2-3 seconds and spaced about a minute apart.just started tonite. Never felt this before.
im 71....not overweight but take atacand for BP.
Mar 15, 2017
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starstarstarstarstar 		Same Same
by: John

I have had the same thing for a couple of years on and off now. Very painful and sleep depriving. For me its a trapped nerve somewhere in my foot and it can only be treated with stretching and exercising the muscles in my lower leg. Roll around on a tennis ball breaking up the tightness in the muscle on the outside of shin, knee to ankle and then do heaps (50) calf raises. Then the pain goes away for a few weeks months until it tightens up again. PT good.
Mar 09, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Hold on
by: Penny

I'm going to my doctor today. Podiatrist said I needed blood tests. It could be a symptom of diabetes. He also mentioned gout. When I get the results back, I will let you know. Hold on.
Mar 08, 2017
Rating
starstarstar 		Pain on top of right Foot.
by: Em

For the past 2 weeks, maybe more, ive been having unbelievable pain on top of my right foot.
it hurts so much more at night when lying down. Ice makes it worse, heat helps a little.
It is so bad at night I am reduced to tears, like right now writing this

Intense throbbing pain. There is a tender spot on top of foot which is sore to touch.
i am completely exhausted from this.

There are no decent doctors near me. It is now constant though, no breaks, all day, everyday.

Will ring a few doctors tomorrow.
Feb 20, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Spurs
by: Spurticus

Hi there I have had same pain for over a year and as I was slowly going crazy I decided to take action and go get an X-ray to see what's causing it and they found a spur! So anyone that is suffering from this sharp sudden onset stabbing electric zap pain go and ask for an X-ray to rule out or confirm spur. Good luck to all
Feb 16, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Like being stabbed in the foot
by: Sean

I am a 50 year old man in pretty good shape and about 165 pounds. Tonight, while sitting on the couch with my feet up, I suddenly felt the most severe, sharpest pain in the top inside of my left foot, unlike anything I've ever felt. It lasted only a few seconds and repeated twice more. But it hurt so badly that I now am terrified it will happen again. Totally different than a cramp, this was more sudden and intense as any pain I've ever felt. I can't believe I've never heard of this, so was shocked that a google search turned up this board with comments from so many with nearly identical pains. I will be calling my podiatrist tomorrow. There has to be an answer out there. Thank you to all who have shared their experiences so I don't feel completely alone. This pain was truly horrible.
Feb 15, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Solution to pain on top of foot
by: Donna

Just found out today!! Those who have electric pain ON TOP OF FOOT-not on bottom or near toes-just ON TOP--probable cause is a bone spur. Yep yep yep. I've been told to stop wearing any shoe that goes on top of pain of foot or past it. So went out and bought shoes that just goes to end of toes so it does not go over top of foot. I'll see if this helps. If it is a bone spur-nerves are involed so that's why the pain is so severe. If this works I'll post about it. Good luck and BYE tennis shoes!!!!
Feb 14, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Finally Gone
by: Marcia

I had this often and on for a couple of years. Finally it has stopped, but I am taking Lyrica now for Neuropathy pain that developed in my feet and ankles due to unknown causes possibly from use of antibiotic Cipro. I tried everything to rid myself of that terrible pain. Glad it is gone finally. Knock on wood!
Feb 14, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		ELECTRIC
by: Donna

Sharp Sharp pain on top of my right foot. Not near toes-just ON TOP of my foot.
Feb 03, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		nerve entrapment
by: Jaclyn

I have the same stabbing pain in the top of my right foot, as almost everyone else here has described. I've now had it for 1 year, coming and going as it pleases...generally when I where closed-toed shoes.

After much research, I think i've discovered what it is - nerve entrapment. Aside from a (steroid??) injection, it doesn't seem like there is much else that can be done to relieve the pain or prevent it from attacking.
Jan 30, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Stabbing pain on top of right foot
by: Pam

About a week ago I suddenly experienced sharp stabbing pain on the top of my right foot . The pain was sharp and sudden and lasted about 10 seconds. This morning I woke up and had 3 bouts of the same pain within about 5 mins I mainly wear flat shoes and have a sedentary job. The interesting thing is that this has happened about a week after I cut down on sugary foods and 3 days after a long haul flight
Jan 29, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		same pain
by: Anonymous

i get that same pain on top of my right foot goes away for so long then out of the blue it stabs again. i know its not mortons neuroma because i actually had that in my left foot bad but believe it or not i did a natural cleanse for h.pylori with mastic gum and it completely disappeared,my dr. was,stunned! my mom still suffers from that. this is a stabbing pain out of nowhere that makes u limp on one leg badly. wish i could figure this out too.
Dec 08, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Stabbing pain top of left foot woke me up.
by: Jerry

I am a 64 year old native American. I am not like the most of the others. I am not able to excersise much due to my medical condition. I have had many injuries and have had cardiac bypass surgery in 2007, and a few other surgeries. Around 5:00 A.M. EST. a sharp stabbing pain in the very top of my left foot woke me up. Unlike the others, walking seems to slow and stop the pain, but as soon as I get back in bed the pain is back. Sharp stabbing pain on top of left foot for a second or two every 10 to 30 seconds unrelenting. Thinking it might be cardiac related, I took a nitro pill, but to no avail. I have never had this pain before. Any suggestions are welcomed.
Nov 17, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Intense pain - GONE!
by: Richard

I'm 65 and healthy. I eat well and exercise regularly. I suddenly started getting a severe pain in the top of my right foot. It would come on suddenly several times a day and would disappear after 1 - 2 minutes. It was like a vice grip on my foot and would force me to limp until I could walk it off but I never got it during the night.

I hadn't changed my shoes or my exercise routine so i wondered if it could be something in my diet. The only new thing that had changed was the addition of blueberries to my breakfast cereal and the pain in my foot started a few days after adding the tasty fruit to my Weetbix. I stopped taking the blueberries and the pain disappeared straight away and I've been pain-free for 3 days.
Oct 28, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		SWEETS AND SUGAR ARE NOT YOUR FRIEND.
by: Ama

SWEETS AND SUGAR ARE NOT YOUR FRIEND.
Same Symptoms like all on this forum and this is why it happened to me.

I am an athletic build 6ft 3inches tall slim like Barak Obama. I went on holiday in August and took advantage of all the deserts on offer and continue to eat loads surgery stuff (cakes, chocolates, biscuits and anything) maybe I consumed my sugar intake for 2 years in 3 months.
Suddenly this pain gripped the top of my foot as described by most and stopped. A week later came back after eating 4 slices of sweet cakes and bang again within an hour.
As advised on this forum, I booked a session with a doctor and advised to take a blood test. Everything was fine but the doctor said my white blood cells were a bit low.
Then I started taking the following.

Vitamin B12
Vitamin E
200mg Ibuprofen for 2 days ONLY
Vitamin C (to help with my immune systems)
STOPPED EATING SUGARY FOODS
More Green tea to DETOX
More Green Vegetables

Not only did I feel better mentally and physically, I have not seen the pain for 3 weeks NOW.

Cut down the sweet things
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I totally agree with you that "sweets and sugar are not your friend", but probably not for the same reasons. Excess sugar in your body has no benefit to your health and in fact is detrimental, but, I am having a hard time correlating the excess sugar to the pain in your foot.
For what it is worth, I think the Ibuprofen and tincture of time, may very well be the reasons your foot stopped hurting.
Keep up the good work (for your body's sake).

Marc Mitnick DPM
Oct 19, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		top of toes pain
by: chris

same symptoms. I first got the pains on the top of my foot while on holiday in the far east, I thought it was sunburn. It re-appeared just on top of my toes on my right foot last night stabbing surface pain every 12 seconds or so (it varies). I get no sympathy as it all looks quite normal.But one just can't sleep waiting for the next pain wave. are there no answers?
Oct 05, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Intense top of foot pain!
by: Diane

I too have similar symptoms to what so many others here report. 52-year-old fit, active, healthy woman experienced sudden, sharp pain on the top of my left foot. I generally don't wear heels, typically flats at work, and today I was wearing flats when after 9 hours of mostly sedentary desk work--only occasional walking and stairs, I felt excruciating, sharp pain in my foot. It has only gotten worse over the past few hours so I've resorted to ice and Aleve. It has happened rarely on occasion over recent years but I'd love to know the cause and how to avoid future episodes. Thanks to others for sharing!
Oct 03, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		sudden sharp stabbing pain in the top of one foot
by: turbo

I have a sharp electrical pain right where my toes start, I also have a very tender spot on top of my foot, that keeps me from running, I have 500 dollar orthotics that didn't help, podiatrist
says ball of foot is hitting and causing the bones to go up and jam on the top? something like that, I also have a high arch.
Sep 17, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstar 		Same Pain and My Doctor Was No Help
by: Steve

I seem to have the same symptoms as everyone else. Just over three years ago (I was 49 at the time, about 165lbs, and in very good health), I began suffering from a stabbing pain in the center top of my right (and rarely my left) foot. It would come on without warning and was so severe that I was completely incapacitated and could only drop to the floor and grab my foot until the pain subsided.

I described the pain as feeling like someone was stabbing my foot repeatedly with an ice pick. It lasted only about five seconds, but because it was so severe and would come completely out of the blue, it was debilitating. As part of my job, I do presentations and talks for groups. Luckily, it never occurred at those times, but I was continually worried that it would and if it did, I could do nothing but drop and scream.

The pain came on the first time about early February 2013 and I did see my personal care doctor after putting up with about two weeks of it, but he was completely puzzled. An x-ray of my foot was normal and he states that it did not match the symptoms of any common foot conditions. Also, my blood glucose was normal, so it wasn't related to that. He only wrote me a prescription for diclofenac, which did nothing (other than make me dizzy and nauseated).

I began using foam and gel insoles in my shoes in Late March and I thought that solved the problem, because the pain stopped entirely about a week later. I was pain-free until about six months later, when it returned, but it was much milder and less frequent, so I could tolerated it... but just in the last few days, it is back again to the incapacitating degree that it was in 2013, but still less frequent. It does not correlate at all to whether I am walking, sitting, running, resting, sleeping, or wake. It happens completely randomly.

Anyway, if it continues like this for more than a week or two, I will take everyone's advice and get a referral to a podiatrist. I'm just hoping he/she does more than scratch his/her head and write a NSAID prescription.

Aug 15, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sharp arch pain
by: Gary

I have suffered from peripheral neuropathy for years, so long, in fact, that I have learned to tolerate the pain. Last night I woke up with a stabbing pain in the arches of my feet, first one then the other, lasting only a second or two, but several per minute.

I was a sleepless night. I couldn't find anything on the internet about this so I don't know how serious it is. Go the emergency or just hope it stops? Appreciate any help.
Aug 11, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Same
by: Ellen

Same!!! Sharp, stabbing, pain out of nowhere. Not sure what to do about it, and if the podiatrist is the person to go to.
Been happening for months off and on. Who to go to?????
--------------------------------------------------
I may be a little prejudiced here, but a podiatrist is the person to go to. Just make sure you find a good one.
Marc Mitnick DPM
Aug 05, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		SAME!
by: SheaShea

54 y.o. female, 40 lbs overweight, skinny ankles/feet, drink around 1 gallon filtered water daily.

OUT OF THE BLUE my right foot on the top behind toe 4 and about 1 inch back.

sharp, sudden, feels like I'm being stung by a huge hornet or stabbed with a knife, I immediately double over to grab my foot - I start acupressure/deep massage right on the stab, but even then it will continue for up to 30 seconds.

Sometimes it seems like tiny muscles are contracting into a charley horse? but very intense, deep, painful

crazy!
Jul 27, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstar 		re:
by: MR PALEO

Richard, it would appear Quinine water would have the same effect, but please be forewarned, as in this article... http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7665718
Jul 25, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Right foot stabbing sharp pain
by: Richard

I have read most of the comments and the random pain attacks seem to have no connection to resting, sleeping, driving( worst of all), walking, sitting aeroplane, basically it can happen at anytime. It is very intense and totally consumes me and quite dangerous if I am working machinery or driving. The pain is under my right foot and deep inside just above my toe joints where they join my foot . My Doc can't help much but I had a severe attack last night in bed that woke me. My wife who is very concerned for me suggested that I drink SCHWEPPES INDIAN TONIC. WATER , an old remedy for cramps and. BINGO. after about 5 mins the pain eased off to nothing. Never before has anything worked so well, maybe just coincidental but I will be drinking it next time and report in . Richard
Jul 09, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstar 		Try this for relief - stabbing foot pain
by: Teresa

First thank you ALL! Your transparency and suffering made me realise I am not imagining the pain. I genuinely appreciate the costs in terms of time and money and insurance paperwork you have all gone through as well as your taking the time to chronicle your journeys.

Now, everyone, take off your shoes asocks and tell me if your 'index' toes are longer than your big toe and your middle toe. Mine are. And I think this might be part of the problem.

Like almost all of you the pain starts at the top of my arch, feels like an ice pick is being wedged in there and the pain radiates up and to the ankle (I am right handed and right footed and the right foot is the problem). The pain is a recent development and always in my sleep.

Recently I started doing a few things before bed in hopes of sleep.

1. Wash my feet and thoroughky massage them during the washing with the assistance of a pumice stone focusing on acupressure points. Added benefit silky smooth feet.

2. Continue with a softening cream that has arnica as an ingredient.

3. (3) Advil

4. I am taping my index and middle toes together with athletic adhesive tape.

5. A banana before bed.

It's not a 100% "cure" but it feels like it against the previous pain - from about a 14 to less than 1.

The toe taping seems to ease the pressure on the nerve all of you have identified by ever so slightly straightening it out against the shape of my foot.

Good luck. Hope this helps you as much as it has for me.
Jul 09, 2016
Rating
starstarstar 		Stabbing exploding pain on big toe & top of feet out of the blue!
by: Kobi

Last nite I was exhausted so I went to bed at 9:00 pm only to have this exploding hot pain start in my right foot big toe & then after 5 second the same excruciating pain on the top of my left foot. I could not rest & finally at 1:30 am I called Telegraph. My nerves very shot at that point. They just advised me to go to a doctor in the morning.. No pain medication seems to knock it down. This pain breaks for 20 seconds or so & then starts all over againso it has gone on until now which is 6:00am. I have no answer & almost feel embarrassed to go to the hospital because it is so strange. Sadly Dr. Google doesn't have any suggestions. I would love to hear from others with this problem.
Jun 24, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Top of foot pain
by: Kelly

I've had pain on the top of one foot half way between toes and ankle. It started as searing pain at night and became continuous. X ray, MRI and EMG normal. Had cortisone shots and now wearing cam boot for 8 weeks and taking gabapentin and vicodin, both help. I still can't walk in regular tennis shoes. Had sesamoidectomy 3 years ago and have arthritic big toe. I'm not sure what is going on.
Jun 08, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstar 		suggestion...
by: MR PALEO

I have been researching "prolozone" therapy to see if it will also work on cartilage/nerve damage/degeneration as a possible solution...
Jun 08, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstar 		Recovering from herniated disc and sciatica
by: Laurie

So I've been experiencing in the last 2 nights a sharp quick electrically sharp burning pain that comes in waves, lasts about 2-5 seconds as described by others. It also feels like pins and needles now that I'm awake and sitting up. It prevents me from sleeping, can't just rub it away. I had a bad bout of sciatica and herniated disc L1 S5 about 7 months ago. Only residual affect has been a slight numbness and sensitivity on top of my right foot along side of big toe and on top. Not painful just there. I'm 58, swim 3 days a week.

Seems to be worse at night . Any thoughts? Exercise, diet?

------------------------------------------------------------------
Give a few days and see if it calms down or resolves on its own. If not then a visit to a foot specialist would be indicated.

Marc Mitnick DPM
Jun 05, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sharp stabbing pain directly behind little toe on right foot
by: Doug

What a relief to read the other comments! In desperation I decided to search for an answer to the sharp stabbing pain that I have had in my foot and off for the past couple years. I am 58 and have an auto-immune system disorder that is being treated with several drugs that have diminished the symptoms but are not under control yet. The intense sharp pain in my right foot 1 to 2 inches behind my little toe last for 2 - 5+ seconds at a time on and off for hours at a time and then not reoccur for hours or even days and them come back for no obvious reasons. I do put a cup of Kale and blueberries in a vegan smoothie mix from The Vitamin Shoppe. I will discontinue the Kale and see if that helps. I will post a follow-up.
Apr 06, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Vitamin A?
by: Patty

Barbara, I would never have thought to even look for excessive amounts of anything in my diet, less even for a "healthy" vitamin. I guess finding this website with all of its suggestions by real pain people was a God-send. Thank you for sharing.
Apr 06, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstar 		Stabbing Foot Pain
by: JR - Anonymous

Like many others here, I also experienced the stabbing sensation in the top of my right foot for the first time this past February. The sensation would last anywhere from 2 to 20 seconds and only present once a day, lasting for a few days. It would only appear while sitting or laying down. After the pain disappeared, I thought I was in the clear, until it reappeared a month later, this time with more frequent appearances (5 - 10 times a day) and lasting for almost 2 weeks. The second round, I had constant pain for two consecutive nights - not a wink of sleep.

A trip to a a local podiatrist suggested it was strictly biomechanical, and I wasn't walking evenly on both feet and needed to strengthen the muscles of my right foot. I went through the motions and attempted to strengthen my foot with the standard supersizes (e.g. ball under foot, thera-band, etc.). The pain disappeared, but I'm not certain this was truly the reason.

Another doctor suggested it was a trapped nerve which there is apparently nothing that can be done to resolve the issue.

One tip that really helped me - I purchased the throw-away heating packs (sold for the neck and back) from the drugstore (suppose to last 8 hours) and taped it to my foot, put on a sock, and was able to get through the night pain free. When I feel the pain starting to come back, I use the heating pad and it seems to help greatly.
Apr 04, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		It has stopped, Yeah!
by: Barbara

Wakened Thurs. night by a sharp, stabbing pain on top of left foot. Intermittent, would burn like an electric shock a second or two and then nothing for maybe a minute. Sleepless all night, and continued all day Friday and that night. Asked Jesus for healing and for help. Found this website with its shared experiences.
Pondered any changes in my nutrition or activity: 1) I've been sitting at computer and meal table with left foot crooked on rung of chair. Now put footrest on floor in front of chair. 2) Nine days ago, I had begun eating daily Energy Greens powder taken in carrot juice. Researching labels, I learned that I have been taking a massive dose of Vitamin A, which accumulates in the body and can be harmful by affecting the absorption of other minerals or vitamins. In each of those nine days, my percentages of "daily nutritional values" for Vitamin A were: GNC multi-vitamin..100%; 8 oz. carrot juice..630%; scoop of Greens..28%. Plus that Thurs. night I had eaten a can of pumpkin...980% (a serving size of 1/2 cup at 280% x 3.5 servings in a can). Good grief!
Saturday I stopped Greens, carrot juice & pumpkin. Thru Sunday (yesterday) the shooting pains diminished gradually. I slept without interruption last night, and today I am completely pain-free. Hallelujah! Praise God. Thank y'all for the suggestions shared. In about a week, maybe will try Greens in small carrot juice and no pumpkin to learn if this is for sure the connection. For me, for now, Yes. Gratefully...
Mar 31, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		The pain is back
by: Celia

I have not had this for about 5 years, so was shocked and upset to be woken in the middle of the night with the terrible pain in my right foot, which feels as though someone is stabbing me with a white hot knitting needle. The pain comes about every 5 seconds, then it might stop for a minute or so, then it will come back again. This usually lasts 2 days or a little longer. This time I am putting the pain down to midfoot gout (like I did before) and think it is due to eating extremely rich and fatty food over Easter. So I have only myself to blame. The last straw must have been a Devon cream tea with loads of clotted cream on scones with strawberry jam, plus a very rich cheese omelette and thick chips later on in the evening. The day before I ate a very rich roast meal followed by creamy sherry trifle and had several glasses of champagne beforehand. Yesterday for lunch I had a large chunk of Dolcelatte Italian cheese!
Mar 30, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Be aware of first diagnosis by podiatrist
by: bfburkejr

My Podiatrist decided that the pain in my left foot between my second and third toe(from the pinky in) was a Neuroma and gave me Corticosteroid Injections. They did nothing to help and the third one made my foot near my toes and the pain turn all black and blue. So then he said he needed to operate to remove the neuroma. He used a self administered Anesthesia consisting of some Sodium Pentobarbitol (they use Propofol most times now I believe) and he also put a pressure cuff on my leg and used Local Anesthesia Probably Lidocaine or something similar and Epinephrine to help reduce bleeding. I remember his first comment was, "This doesn't look very big at all." Well within a year I was in the Neurosurgeons office with Left Foot Flop due to a herniated disk in my lumbar region, I believe it was L4-L5, S-1 nerve root. He4 said the "neuroma was probably NOT a neuroma, but nerve pain from my back and that the Podiatrists are operation happy due to the income operations generate. He told me that if it has been a neuroma the steroid injection would have had some effect, at least one of the three and that the black and blue was because he hit a blood vessel and that he should have know better how to inject than that.The same podiatrist did a bilateral plantar fascia release and heal spur grinding. That worked OK except he should have used an anesthesiologist as he ran out of either the pentathol or the versed or both and only had more local and he kept injecting that until my blood pressure went sky high as the lidocaine or whatever had gone systemic. It was pretty bad, definitely the worst operation I have ever had and the last time I went to see him. So I guess what I am saying is check your Doctors Experience and record and get a second opinion with an orthopedic surgeon who is a foot/ankle specialist, or even check out a neurologist they can test to see if your nerves are pinched and where, I had that done before my Carpal Tunnel Surgeries. I am in the Process of getting my "Stabbing top of the foot pain diagnosed." It feels like someone is sticking an ice pick in my foot just in front of where the foot meets the lower leg, it is bad enough to make me stumble, I have even fallen due to it a couple of times. If injection are suggested I will go to the Pain Treatment Center after some imaging and get then to do the injection with a Fluoroscopic (x-ray) guide to help to Dr. place the medicine exactly where it is needed.
Mar 20, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Lightening bolt pain
by: Anonymous

Me too. Started at work after standing for a long period. It felt like a lightening bolt struck the top of my right foot. Horrible pain, happens so fast. Never know when it is going to hit. Scared to walk on my foot in case that triggers the pain. Feels like a bone fracture, but no swelling or injury to the foot. The left foot is fine. Weird.

I do have high arches and am prone to spasms along the bottom of my feet. So I wear arch supports and eat bananas. I feel like the best thing to do is elevate my foot and maybe get a compression sock.

I'm 49 and in excellent health. I'm long and lean and sometimes have issues with circulation in my hands and feet.
Mar 12, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Foot pain
by: Sandy

My foot doctor told me to wear compression socks. They help immensly. I originally started with knee highs, but have since purchased low rise socks -- they aren't cheap, but I did find a pair on Amazon for about $10 that I like. I don't have to wear them all the time, but I do whenever I'm going to be on my feet for any length of time -- walking, shopping, cleaning, etc. If the foot pain comes back, I'll wear them for 24 hours if I have to, but they definitely help.
Another thing that helps me is shoes with stability support -- specifically if they have a metatarsal support.
Mar 11, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I got it too
by: Anonymous

Same as others have stated

Quick sharp pain

Wondering if it is related to arthritis of the big toe

My podiatrist wants to pin it
Mar 11, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Dangerous nonsense
by: Teresa

I am very surprised that Marc would allow 'Mr Paleo' to use this blog to propagate such dangerous nonsense as saying that Type 1 Diabetes can be 'eliminated' through a change in diet.

This is simply untrue, and there are documented cases of children dying because their parents believed this rubbish.

To put it simply, Type 1 Diabetes is an auto-immune disease in which the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas are destroyed by the body's own immune system. These cells cannot be restored through any kind of diet and that person is left with a life-long reliance on injected insulin in order to control their blood sugar levels.

Just goes to show, don't believe everything you read on the internet.


Hi Teresa,

You are 100 percent correct that Type I, Juvenile onset diabetes cannot be altered by diet.

Having said that I would like to think that I am the only expert on this site (and even I am subject to errors and omissions) and that any one else contributing to this forum is either relating their experience with a given problem or expressing their layman's opinion.

I may be wrong on this, but I think most people reading the forum part of this site would realize that most people are just putting in their "two cents" and that medical advice should be gotten from medical professionals, not from a poster, for any medical problem, but especially for a serious problem like diabetes.

So, even though I am inclined to leave Mr. Paleo's post up, let this part of the thread point out that a change in diet will NOT cure Type I diabetes.

Marc Mitnick DPM
Mar 09, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Younger person experiencing this pain.
by: This is awful!

I won’t say that I am glad to see others having this pain, but it’s comforting in a way. I’m a 27 y/o male who has been very active most of my life. I was a distance runner in school and was in the Army. The past year or so I have been having random excruciating pain in my left foot. It seems to happen the most when I’m "at rest" sitting or laying down. It feels like a nail is being driven through my foot and there is a burning sensation. It’s one of the worst pains that I have ever felt before.

My foot is not tender to the touch and x-rays didn’t reveal any issues. I feel like doctors almost thinking I am making this stuff up. They gladly take my money to keep visiting them, but I don’t believe they understand what is causing this issue.
Mar 09, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Temporary Remedy?
by: Penny

Any suggestions anyone? Icy Hot & Infomercial foot pain relief creme doesn't work. I was thinking about buying a numbing spray if one exists or try to shock it in extremely cold water . Going to the doctor is not an option right now. Thank you.
Mar 08, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Dear Brian...
by: MR PALEO

"Diabetes" et al (types 1,2 and 3) is easily ELIMINATED (not "controlled") by changing one's dietary habits. I have NUMEROUS clients who have seen a COMPLETE reversal of all symptoms, including neuropathy. You should really Google those meds you are taking....
As for your comments, thank you for the input. It would appear (at least to me) that there are several problems occurring which may (or may not) be related. Are you taking any supplements that contain B-12 ? If yes, then check the form... it should be Methylcobalamin, NOT Cyanocobalamin. Do you take D3, and not D2 ? Do you have any known allergic reactions ? Do you take any other meds for other "conditions ?

In Type 1 diabetes, the pancreas is essentially a non-working organ. I have never heard of any dietary supplements or special diets that will "regenerate" the pancreas. Any one reading this post should question their endocrinologist before embarking on changes in their diet.

Marc Mitnick DPM
Mar 05, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Adding my report
by: Brian

I just wanted to mention that this has begun happening to me as well.

Prior to last week, I had felt it randomly in either foot maybe a half dozen times in as many years. Every once in a while I'd get a single random stabbing pain at the top of my foot, and wouldn't experience it again for months or years.

The last week, though, has been a different story. Tonight I am suffering the pain in my left foot. It has prevented me from sleeping. Several days ago, the exact same thing was happening in the exact same spot on the right foot.

As others have described, it is a sharp, hot stabbing pain that lasts barely two seconds and recurs about every thirty seconds on average. It varies in magnitude but is usually strong enough that an involuntary spasm of most of my leg muscles is triggered as a response.

Also as others have described, it is far less frequent when standing/walking but comes right back when sitting or lying down.

I am diabetic and have experienced sensory neuropathy many times, and this certainly isn't that.

Currently my blood sugar is controlled. I am taking Metformin, Lisinopril, and Tradjenta.

Something worth noting is that I have been experiencing a potential neurological issue lately. My eyeballs have been twitching and for most of two days last week I had involuntary spasms of my right index finger. I am also showing nervous behavioral symptoms at the moment, in the form of compulsively picking and chewing the nails and cuticles of my left hand (the same side on which I'm currently having foot pain ). I'm not a doctor and have no idea if these symptoms are related, I'm just including them for the sake of completeness.

My diet has been well rounded and should not be suffering a deficit of any necessary nutrient. I take a daily multivitamin and omega-3 supplement in addition to a rather liberal and diverse diet.

Finally, I've observed that while this is happening, the skin of the affected area (which shows no visible signs) is extremely sensitive, and the pain can be triggered by slightly brushing the skin or gently touching the hairs on the top of the foot. Pressing firmly on the area does not trigger the pain and in fact usually prevents it from occurring while pressure remains applied.
Feb 27, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Gout, et al...
by: MR PALEO

I would have to agree with Marc, gout presents with a differing set of symptoms, but is definitely DIET related... having said that, "blood pressure" meds are normally not something I would recommend, as there are other means to bring BP into a "proper" range, but then I am not an allopath...
Feb 27, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		someone say blood pressure meds
by: Anonymous

I just started with this pain yesterday, top of left foot just below big toes. Couple episodes already when sitting. Does seem to radiate around other parts of foot/ankle and experiencing tingling while sitting that seems to move around as well. Only change in my life is started high blood pressure meds beginning of December (not quite 3 months ago). I was wondering if that could be cause and saw some of the comments here. I am taking 12.5mg hydrochlorothiazide. Just a few minutes ago I tried putting on my winter boots to go outside with dog and just about went through the ceiling with an excruciating pain in foot I never felt before. Now about 30 minutes later the foot is tingling and feels like mild cramping. I do have a herniated disc in the lower lumbar and have been noticing mild pains and burning in that area for a couple weeks now. Not a debilitating pain yet, but I find I start backing off activities to not again get to that point. Anyone who has suffered with sciatica knows that. I guess my point is, that I feel something is happening with my lower back, so that could be culprit. But the blood pressure meds question caught my attention...


Thiazide diuretics are a known factor in gout attacks which, in the majority of the cases occur in the big toe joint. BUT, your pain occurred while trying to put on your boots, so either you bent over and did something to your back (herniated disk) or the movement of the big toe joint, putting on your boots, set off your pain.

Gout, on the other hand, presents itself differently. Out of nowhere, usually early in the morning, you will experience an excruciating pain, the pain will be relentless, the joint affected will be red, hot and swollen. If not treated, the pain will be intense, then gradually diminish over the next couple of days.

So, although gout is always a possibility when there is pain in the big toe joint, most of the comments in this thread do not sound like gout.

Marc Mitnick DPM
Feb 21, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstar 		only while resting
by: vince

Just had my first night with the pain. If I'm up and moving it feels fine. Once I attempt to rest I get the stabbing and twisting pain between the 1st and 2nd metatarsal of left foot. Last for 2-3 seconds, 20 seconds to 3 minutes between bursts. Put foot in bucket of ice and it went away until the foot warmed back up. Tried elevating it, hanging it off the side of the bed, and every position I could think of without relief. Motrin has no noticable effect.

Mid 40's
5-10
185lbs
very active

Walked 27 holes of golf yesterday.(not uncommon)
Foot joy contour shoes with gel inserts.
Feb 20, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Thank you for your input...
by: MR PALEO

As I have said in an earlier comment, this situation is most likely an impingement of L5/S1. Bananas are naturally high in potassium, I would not recommend eating six at a time, since this can cause a magnesium imbalance to occur. Hypokalemia (lack of potassium) symptoms are:
•Constipation
•Feeling of skipped heart beats or palpitations
•Fatigue
•Muscle damage
•Muscle weakness or spasms
•Tingling or numbness
I have never heard of a nerve response, but it could be possible...
The next question would be; have any of you been diagnosed with an electrolyte imbalance ?
Feb 20, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Eat banana
by: Anonymous

I had the same problem in my right foot since a month ago and the worst was 10 days ago. Every 10-15 minutes I got this attack last for 5 seconds. I couldn't sleep well because of this. Then I ate about 6 bananas then I feel better and eventually at the following night I didn't feel the attack anymore and I can sleep well. Until today no single attack come back to me and I keep eating a banana after my meal. I don't know if eating banana is really cure this problem but this the only thing I did after the attack. Hope it helps.
Feb 19, 2016
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starstarstarstarstar 		follow up question
by: Jillibean

working in an office I sit all day
Feb 19, 2016
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starstarstarstarstar 		Regarding sitting question
by: Kathy W.

I don't sit for long periods. Yesterday I had a steroid injection so I'm monitoring progress on that.
Feb 18, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Right handed right foot pain
by: Anonymous

I was having this in my right foot and I am right handed. After I had extensive chiropractic treatments with laser treatment on my spine the pain in foot went away. only occasionally now I get the sudden pain in the same place as before and I somehow get the feeling the pain is connected to my lower back as it comes on usually when I am adjusting back position. I feel sorry for anyone who is experiencing this kind of foot pain consistently as it is torment.
Feb 18, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		reply
by: Anonymous

Thanks J... I have a follow-up question... how many of you SIT for long periods of time on a daily basis ?
Feb 16, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		replied to Mr Paleo
by: Jillibean

any suggestions or information is good in my books :0)
Feb 14, 2016
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starstarstarstarstar 		question for all of you...
by: MR PALEO

As this is not my "primary" line of expertise, I would like to know how many of you are right-handed, and if you have ever suffered from Gout ?

I can be reached at: Dragonmaster9@hotmail.com

Or thru my old blog: www.misterpaleo.blogspot.com
Feb 14, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		feeling sorry for everyone
by: Jillibean

oddly enough I only experienced it the one night (before I posted) I have had a slight twinge since but that's it, it is so random it seems uncanny that most people are experiencing it in the left foot to start with, sorry to hear you folks are still having problems,
I will keep looking on this site for any further diagnosis thanks to all
Jillibean
Feb 13, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Looking for an answer!
by: Anonymous

Well it is good to know I'm not alone, but there is very little here to help me figure out why this is happening.
With my insurance deductible thru the roof this year, I hate to start seeing specialists. My pain is same as everybody but I get in both feet and sometimes my toe or random foot places. I think maybe more often on left but never really paid attention..
It only happens when I lie down but I am sick and tired of it. Pain so bad I have to squeeze eyes shut and wait it out. Thank god it only lasts for a couple seconds at a time. It hits me so hard that my foot will often jump.
It has been going on for over 6 months but it kinds subsided for about a week and I don't know why. I was wearing my ugg boots all week pretty much.
I wear flats a lot and not sure if related. I am going to pay attention to my diet and maybe keep a journal. Looking for answers here and I can't believe nobody on here has been able to get a diagnosis and a fix to problem. Somebody please figure it out and let me know. I'm going to bookmark this site and check back

Even though the symptoms all seem to be similar, the cause of the stabbing pain can be from different causes for each person who has posted on this thread.
Like most aches and pains, you either live with it or do something about it.
I totally understand the high deductible issue on your health insurance but if your pain is agonizing enough, only a specialist will be able to figure out why your foot is hurting and then will give you specific advice to remedy the problem.

Marc Mitnick DPM
Feb 11, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Oh dear, left foot pain for me too.
by: Vanessa

I have to say that I'm finding it a little strange that most of us are getting this foot problem starting in the left foot. Anyway, I have to say that I am feeling it with all of you. I have had this pain for nearly 2 months and it just keeps getting worse and worse. There is so much I can and can't do because of all the other stupid medical conditions I also have and I really didn't need this on top. It sort of fits part descriptions of all sorts of conditions including tendonitis, arthritis, gout and the list goes on. At 45 after suffering from leukemia, rheumatoid arthritis, low potassium, high blood pressure, irregular heart beat, fluid retention just to name a few, I thought there wasn't possibly anything else I could get, but this just seals the deal. Can't sit, can't stand, can't lay, can't any thing without pain. Yep, I get the stabbing knife feeling along with the burning heat in the top of the left foot along with aching in the foot and the ankle. Maybe soon a wonder doctor will work it out for us and 'then we can all get some sleep'.
Feb 10, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Voodoo Dorsal Syndrome
by: Anonymous

I experienced exactly the symptoms the original poster, Bob F, described. This is an entirely symptom based condition so I can’t post the ton of info I have, so I’ll just post the three most important things (for now). One, there’s no medical name for this according to every doc I’ve seen in WA/OR and a group called Best Doctors, a network of top doctors my company provides. Closest thing they said this resembles is "Anterior Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome" or Neuropathy. I call it "Voodoo Dorsal Syndrome" because that perfectly describes the symptoms in every way. Two, the pain level is insane. Level 8-9 easy on hospital chart that ranges from the exact feeling of being stabbed with a needle to a steak knife or pin point severe electrical attack. This isn't a condition you can simply "live with". It's torture. The way it comes and goes is almost like a random muscle spasm except it's just the nerves at the very top of the foot. Three, I found a successful treatment. Gabapentin 300MG 3X/day (150MG had NO effect). This stopped the steak knife stabbing and severely lessened the duration. Everything stopped when I had a cortisone injection DIRECTLY at the center of the attack (not in the ankle as you would for Tarsal Tunnel). Nothing else had any effect and I tried EVERYTHING minus surgery. I will find a way to link more info later. Hang in there people.
Feb 09, 2016
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starstarstarstarstar 		Left foot stabbing pain!
by: Anonymous

Reading these comments as I agonize through the shooting stabbing pain in the left foot. Came on out of no where but have had this happen before. Neuropathy, diabetes and back pain are all a daily battle for me so this is like insult to injury. I do remember that this pain has come and gone in the past and for me an all of you suffering I hope it passes soon.
Feb 08, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		OMG
by: Jillibean

Experienced this for the first time last night woke me up from a deep sleep, i have never heard of it until I found your posts, the pain was definitely not something I would like to experience regularly, what on earth is it
Feb 06, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		suggestion...
by: MR PALEO

To all of those who have taken the time to comment here, thank you. For what it is worth, it is my "professional" opinion that this particular situation is a result of an impingement of l5/s1. This commonly occurs due to long periods of sustained sitting with the knees at the same level as the hips or below, and while certain "supplements" may be beneficial for reducing or eliminating pain of this nature, the best solution is eliminating the postural problem in the first place. If you cannot reduce the time you sit, then at least raise the knees, such as sitting on a core ball, and get up and move around at least every 15-20 minutes during the day. I CANNOT recommend ingesting chlorine, this is nonsense...
Feb 06, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I hope this helps
by: Anonymous

I feel slightly embarrassed that I can't diagnose this symptom as I am a Podiatrist and also suffer with the same complaint.

Originally this started after I suffered a sunburnt left foot and symptoms started in the middle of the night and continued to do so every 18-20 seconds / heartbeats.
It was so severe that I wanted to smash my foot with a hammer, a little unprofessional perhaps but I would have preferred to get my moneys worth for the pain as there was literally nothing to see.

A this point I should say I assumed that the sunburn was the cause of the symptoms.

As I write this I have experienced the second episode, now in the other foot but located in exactly the same place ( the apex of the Dorsal Venous Arch) and this time it has been so severe I have come into work in the middle of the night so my wife isn't disturbed. The symptoms subside when standing but its not the ideal sleeping position!

Many of you have mentioned Protein balances and mostly appeared to be middle aged ( apart from our 18 year old friend)
I am also middle aged with a fairly physical lifestyle. I also suffer with Asthma and restless leg syndrome.

So far I suspect that this is a cutaneous problem involving the Medial Dorsal Cutaneous nerve which may be linked to a nerve entrapment.
I say this because in my case I have suffered a twisted pelvis in the past and I have recently been carrying build work which may have woken this nasty little demon up.
This is all I can think of.

I hope you can all find a resolution!
Feb 03, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Wonder If Protein Has Something To Do With It?
by: Randall

About 9 months ago I first had this pain, and thanks to the suggestions to some of the people on here to use vitamins the pain went away.

Since it has returned at times, although no where nearly severe as it was when it first began occurring.

I was very very poor almost unable to afford food when it first began (very little protein), and I have since been blessed with access to much better & more nutritious food (and more protein). Right around the time I transitioned to eating better food (and much more protein), the pain went away for multiple months.

Then, in December I became a vegetarian (less protein), and I've noticed a mild form of the pain occurring from time to time. When it occurs it is often when I haven't had enough protein (like when I was very poor last year & unable to afford much protein), so I focus on eating more protein shakes & soy protein products (since I'm a vegetarian now), and it seems to get rid of the pain again.

So while I'm not sure about it, it seems when I eat more protein the symptoms occur less often

I can't guarantee it but hope that eating enough protein may be of help to some people. As I've stated in the past, you should always consult with a dietician and doctor before making any changes to your diet, and I can't guarantee the results you will have.

I don't know if this will help anyone, and can't guarantee this is causing the foot pain but felt the coincidence of my pain and protein intake might be worth mentioning to others in case there is a link.

Randall
Jan 19, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Pain top of left foot
by: Bill

Ditto to everyone. This started about a month ago for me. I am 65 and in reasonably good health. I walk 6-10+ miles daily with a goal to reach 12 -15 miles daily all in preparation for an extended trek next year. I have been assuming the pain was from compression caused by some new walking boots but the pain has persisted and I have been getting the intense spiking pain at night when my foot is outstretched. Normally lasts 5 seconds or so per episode. Interestingly its not tender to the touch so its is deep in the bones or tissues. I am going to let time pass before I will see a medical professional. Sometime that is the best remedy. I feel for everyone also having this issue. Hang in there.
Jan 17, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Top of foot pain
by: Anonymous

I have this problem too! Started in left went to right. Felt like bones breaking. Went to DPM , have bone spurs on top but not bad. Had to get solid arch supports because of my high arch. Helped a lot for most pain but now have soreness near ankle but always have excruciating pain at night when in bed. Will continue my sure for relief n appreciate this forum
Jan 10, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		To Laura
by: Kathy W.

If your pain persists I strongly suggest you get an xray done. A competent doctor might want an MRI of the foot if the xray is inconclusive. There are ligaments and tendons that run up your ankle from this area of the foot and tendonitis can be part of the pain. One doctor explained to me that it can be like carpal tunnel (wrist) but on a particular area on the foot. In my case, it took perseverence on my part to find a doctor who could get a proper xray showing a problem in the joint. Apparently the naviculocuneiform joint is difficult to see on an xray. At least that's what I've been told. I'm certainly not trained in that field. Good luck to you and I hope you find a solution soon.
Jan 08, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I thought I'd felt everything now this.
by: Laura

My left foot pain just started a week or so ago during the night when sleeping. Top of my left foot felt like someone was stabbing it with a knife. Happened a few more times. Then today at the Dentist I was having a root canal when It happened. Dentist thought the pain was from his work when I just about jumped out of the chair.No, just a stabbing pain worse than any root canal on the top of my left foot.

I am 61, no changes in diet or weight or anything before this began. Is it related to coming neuropathy for me?
Jan 02, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Same pain
by: Anonymous

After reading all these comments I noticed most of them were posted by middle aged or older adults. Well I am an 18 year old female and I'm experiencing the exact pains all of you are describing. It's on the top of my left foot and it hurts way worse when I'm lying down or sitting rather than when I'm standing. It's starting to climb to my ankle it seems too.
Dec 29, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		STABBING TOP RIGHT FOOT PAIN
by: PAIN IN NC

I HAVE THIS SAME PAIN, IN THE RIGHT FOOT. IT LIKE MOST EVERYONE ELSE SAYS, COMES AND GOES. BUT WHEN IT OCCURS IT IS HORRIFIC PAIN. I HATE OTHERS HAVE THIS PAIN, BUT AT LEAST THIS FORUM ALLOWS US TO LEARN FROM EACH OTHER. THANKS FOR ALL THE POSTINGS.
Dec 28, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Update on my previous posts
by: Kathy W

After trying numerous treatments as described in my previous posts, I went to an orthopedist. The initial consultation and x-rays show severe arthritis and bone on bone at the naviculocuneiform joint. My consult was with a Fellow at the clinic and she is referring me to the head orthopedist for further evaluation. The outcome will likely be a joint fusion surgery. My visit with the surgeon is not until Feb. but it feels good to possibly be on the right road finally.
Dec 27, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Unexplained Pain on Top of Left Foot
by: Anonymous

All -

I am a 44 year old male in pretty good shape. About 5 or 6 months months ago, I began having a sharp pain in the top of my left foot for no reason (no recent or old injuries). The pain would just randomly occur. Sometimes I would be sitting at my desk at work and all of the sudden it would feel like I was being stabbed with a knife on the top of my left foot. The pain would last for 5 to 10 seconds. It would also happen sometimes at night when I was sleeping. This pain would occur maybe every couple of days. I went to the doctor but he couldn't come up with a diagnosis. I took several x-rays of my feet and neck but everything came back normal. I have gastric reflux so I am on Prilosec daily. I have been on Prilosec for probably a year and a half. About a month and a half ago, I ran out of the Prilosec and didn't take it for at least four or five days. During this time, I noticed that I wasn't having the pain in my foot anymore. I have now been off of the Prilosec for about 6 weeks and I haven't had any sharp stabbing pains in my left foot. So, if you are currently taking Prilosec you may want to discuss it with your doctor because it may be the source of your pain.
Dec 27, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Could it be arthritis?
by: Anonymous

I seem to have these problems. A very sharp pain like a knife stabbing into your foot. However, mine lasts for most of the day - fading then stabbing again. I do have osteoarthritis so am assuming it is something to do with that.
Dec 08, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Pain in the.....FOOT
by: W.Conaway Jr.

Like most on here, I share the same pain. At this very moment my foot is sending sharp pains for no reason. I don't understand it but, I am on my feet all day, everyday. This started just recently after a day of "up and down" a ladder for the better part of 10 hours. My metatarsal boots are my everyday wear when I work, at home I often shuffle from my sneakers to my loafers and yes, even my slippers. I'm 43, 6'5" and "fluffy." (350lbs give or take.) I make it a point to exercise regularly, I eat semi-healthy foods but, I have a sweet tooth. I love cookies and milk. I've not seen a doctor yet, I don't feel it is that bad. It hurts like hell but, I'm confident that it should go away on its own (or get worse,) but I will address it when necessary. I was just wondering if anyone had a clue as to what the hell is going on... Always the top of the left foot, why? Good luck to everyone, I hope for you all, your pain goes away.
Dec 03, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Itching pain on top of left foot.
by: Bob

I have experienced the pain described by many of you for about 5 years. It seems to come about 3 or 4 time a year and always starts at night. Sometimes it lasts for a few days and sometimes only one night. I describe it as an itching sharp pain that cycles about every 20 to 60 seconds. Fortunately my pain is not debilitating but it does cause me to lose sleep. I'm 81 and in generally decent physical condition except for back problems. Within the past five years I've had back surgery for a ruptured disk, a left hip replacement and suffered several broken ribs and a ruptured spleen as the result of a fall. I presently take Oxycodone for back pain and have received epidurals for several years in an attempt to alleviate back pain to no avail.
Even with all the back pain I have, none of it is as disruptive as the pain in my left foot. I've done everything that has been described by all the people on this site to no avail. I'm convinced my foot pain is a nerve pain origination somewhere in my back, but who knows?
Nov 23, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Doctor's Dx
by: Anonymous

I saw a podiatrist and he says my pain is from shifting bones in my foot. (Quite possibly from weight and age). He told me to use ice packs and to wear good shoes even when at home -- no slippers. He also told me to get compression socks. I tried all this and it all helps. The compression socks worked all day, but the minute I took them off, I had that pain again!
Nov 20, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstar 		Agonising foot pain
by: Hetty S

Yesterday I again had the agonising pain in the top of my left foot. It came and went, as before, about 3 times over the course of about 10 minutes, each episode lasting about a minute. The pain is so bad,so bad that I have to clutch on to something and try and breathe my way through it like childbirth. Actually the pain is worse than childbirth. It lies dormant for a few months than comes out of the blue, with no swelling or other indicator of a problem. What on earth is it?
Nov 17, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Stabbing pain under my left foot
by: Anonymous

I was in my bed when all the sudden a huge sharp pain was under my left foot I whined a little and when I moved my foot it hurt worst I tried different positions for it to stop or calm down and it lasted longer than it usually has before
Nov 02, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Blood Pressure Meds??
by: William

After spending hours reading many of the comments here, I thought I would add a few of my own. Almost daily I suffer from the same symptom that many here have described. I especially appreciated the description of knowing how Jesus felt--as it feels like a spike is being driven through the top of my right foot just under the big toe. It is in this exact spot each and every time it occurs.

The pain is very harsh, lasting 5-6 seconds, then disappears as quickly as it began. It mostly occurs in the evening and often times in the middle of the night waking me up. This has been happening for about a year now. Last night I woke up to the same pain in/"through" my left ankle!!

I also have peripheral neuropathy which began about 5 years ago. This started about two months after I began taking a low daily dosage of Metoprolol, not for high blood pressure, but as a migraine preventative.Also I developed raynaud's syndrome in my hands at about the same time the neuropathy symptoms showed up.

I am 62 years old, not overweight and not diabetic and my doctor has no clue. My right foot is always on fire with the neuropathy and every once in a while the spike is driven through for added measure. It is misery.

Has anyone else here had this occur following any blood pressure medication use? Specifically, Metoprolol?


Lesser occurring side effects of metoprolol include tingling in the feet (neuropathy) as well as paleness (Raynauds) in fingers and toes.
Marc Mitnick DPM
Nov 02, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Solution for me!
by: Don

I have had the feeling of%
Nov 01, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Vitamins
by: Sandy

I started taking B Complex Stress vitamins yesterday and today, there is very little swelling and no pain in my foot. I did have x-rays taken on Friday, but haven't received the results yet. I hope the vitamins did it, that would be an easy fix! I've actually been eating a lot less sugar lately, so I don't think that affected my feet. I am also on double my dose of lasix, so that probably helped too, but I've been on a double dose for over a week and still had a lot of pain yesterday.
Nov 01, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		This is not the club I wanted to join
by: Jonny

I was awake most of last nite with the same symptoms that most people on this site have so adequately explained . The pain emanating from the top of my left foot , very tender to the touch and seemed to have a type of swelling that was isolated to a patch that has formed a lump at the top most part of the foot. I have had various episodes of this type, it very painful.
I never thought that sugar may be the trigger for this serious condition .
I have experienced gout a few times before and although the pain is about the same, the gout is always deep in the joints especially the big toe.
I have laid off the sugar stuff today, and although the residual pain from last nite is still there and hurts to touch, l am sure I will get some sleep tonite.
Oct 28, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Same Pain as the rest of you
by: Sandy R

A few months ago, I noticed a soft lump on the top of my left foot. Meant to ask the podiatrist about it, but forgot. It never bothered me. Then just last week, I started with this sharp stabbing pain in the same area, but the lump was gone. The pain would come at random times, sometimes in clusters. Then the pain left that foot and I now have it in my right foot. It doesn't matter what I'm doing, what position I'm in or what time of day.

I am 68 obese and have fibromyalgia, arthritis, bursitis and ashthma. I just recently started lasix, but noticed some ankle swelling anyway. Yesterday I took twice the dose of lasix and now my feet (both) are really swollen. Doctor of course was not in today. I'll call tomorrow.
Meanwhile I'll take some vitamins. I do take lots of pain killers and flexeril at bedtime. Nothing new there.
Oct 25, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		SHARP, STABBING PAIN ON JUST LEFT FOOT; AT THE SIDE AND
by: Anonymous

This happened at 5 a.m. yesterday episodic pain lasting from seconds to a full minute; no diabetes; only left foot affected. Hurts wen I'm sitting or lying down; I need to sleep! Btw I'm 88 years old, a bit overweight but walking 1/2 hour every a.m. Still healthy and on only one med, thyroid med. X Strength tylenol no help.
Oct 06, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Update on my earlier posts
by: Kathy W

Laser therapy is not helping foot pain. Getting pain again at night, though not as severe as previously. Pain during the day is the same and can be debilitating for the short time it lasts. So far I have been to a podiatrist, physical therapist, acupuncturist and chiropractor. Treatments have included shots, oral meds, topical gel, exercise, ortho boot, acupuncture, laser therapy and bio-wave therapy (which made it worse). My next doctor might have to be a psychiatrist!
Oct 06, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Excrutiating foot pain
by: Anonymous

I think most of the people who have commented here have the same pain as me. It happens about 4 or 5 times a year and lasts for a couple of days. The pain always starts at night and is worse at night. Been to the doctor who just looked at me as if I was daft. There's nothing to see but the pain takes over my whole body and my foot sometimes jumps off the floor. I thought I was the only one but clearly not. Thanks for all the advice.
Elizabeth
Sep 20, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		sharp stabbing left foot pain
by: Janet

I am a 54 yr old woman who is on her feet alot. My left foot gets very sharp pains which goes from the outside edge to the top in the middle of foot. Only happens when im on it and makes me yell in pain. It only lasts a few seconds then comes back. Very little swelling.
Aug 28, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Update on Laser Therapy
by: Kathy W

On July 22, 2015 I started a series of laser treatments for my ongoing foot pain. I am sad to report that now, after about 12 treatments, I still have the pain. The only improvement so far seems to be that I don't get the stabbing pains during the night that I had been getting. My pain seems to be centered around the navicular bone and is tender to pressure in that area. Sometimes the pain radiates up to the ankle area.
Aug 13, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		someone mentioned HBP meds
by: Paul

I have been getting this same occasional stabbing pain on the top of right foot now for the last couple months. Lately I have been getting leg cramps at night also.
Someone mentioned High Blood Pressure meds and that rang a bell. I have never had this issue before and have been on HBP meds now for about a year. Beginning to think there might be some correlation there.

Paul
Aug 13, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Same shooting, stabbing pain
by: Marge

And I thought I was special. I started with this pain a few weeks ago. Short stabbing pain at the top, left side of my left foot. I kept thinking it would go away if I could crack something in my foot. I'm physically active, exercise a lot. Thought maybe over usage. The first episode lasted an hour or so during a spin class, eventually subsided. Last night it hit again, worse than before. I had been kayaking with my son. Thought it had to do placement of my foot in the boat. Very disheartening because I am very physical. I had a very hard time going up and down stairs last night, and, again this morning. After reading through posts it seems useless to see a doctor. I do take some of the supplements others have mentioned. Not into the pain meds because they tend to not help and they bother my stomach. Geez... BTW-I'm 51, 5'11", 185 lbs. Not diabetic, but it runs in my family. On meds for high blood pressure (Lisinopril), and high triglycerides (Trilipix). Both inherited issues which is why I exercise.
Aug 08, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Read up on RSD or CRPS
by: Anonymous

I have had this problem for years, starting in right foot and now in left. It is in the instep and can happen at any time and is excruciating. When it first happened I could not believe the pain in bones and nerves and had to support myself on a walking stick. I used to ice my foot as it burned.

Now it is just constant especially when I take my shoe off!

Lyrica, a nerve pain drug, does help but has nasty side effects if too much taken daily.

My husband massages the instep for me if really bad and that helps!
Aug 08, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Exactly my symptoms!
by: Alicia

Hi!! This has just happened to me, exactly as you've described. I was sleeping and the sudden pain woke me up. The pain, like you said, came in episodes. And I felt like it radiates a little towards my leg at times!

Like you, my diet and exercise are very good.

I need answers!

Thank you!
Jul 22, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Response
by: Kathy W

Thank you Marc Mitnick. Since I have had pain for quite some time and many other treatments have not helped, I'm hoping this will provide some relief.
Jul 22, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Laser Treatment
by: Anonymous

I had laser treatments but they were given to my lower back along with other chiropractic treatments and within 2 weeks the pain in my foot had subsided. Well worth the money for me as the foot pain was so bad I would have easily gone insane if I had to endure it very much longer.
Jul 22, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Trying new therapy
by: Kathy W

I have just started a new therapy for my foot pain. It is expensive and not covered by insurance but at this point I have to try whatever I can. It is Class IV laser treatments provided by a chiropractor. I have had two treatments so far, the plan calls for 22 treatments. If anyone has experience with this treatment I would like to hear about it.

RESPONSE

Laser works by increasing the blood flow to the affected area. Increased blood flow helps to heal the injured area.
I do not know how much you are being charged, but 22 treatments, I assume, will take about two months or more to complete, assuming two to three treatments per week.
It is more likely the foot would have healed within that period of time with simpler treatment.
If the chiropractor will cease treatments when you feel better, even if it less then 22 treatments, then it is probably worth pursuing. If he or she insists that you must have all 22 treatments, then find yourself another chiropractor.

Marc Mitnick DPM
Jul 21, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Top of foot pain
by: Anonymous

My pain is from my toes to top of foot where I have a tremendous bunion. In fact, all my toes but small one are growing sideways. I figured the pain is caused by toes pulling wrong direction. Could this be so? The best results are from castor oil rubbed into foot. Aspercream does not work. I also have RA and the castor oil helps fingers at night.
Jul 18, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstar 		RSD/CRPS
by: AB

Has anyone been told that it could be RSD - Regional Sympathetic Dystrophy or CRPS - Complex Regional Pain Syndrome?
I injured both feet at various times and first it was in right foot. Was in no pain for months, then suddenly, it started with agonising shooting pain as though foot was in a vice, hot and cold, purple and other colors etc! Nothing helped and I just supported myself on a walking stick, used cold foot baths and stayed off it as much as I could.
Then it changed to left foot and has stayed, in varying degrees of pain. Mainly feels like instep has been crushed! If I put any shoes on, they are tight on that foot, and even a small heel makes it hurt like it is being tortured into shape!
I can stand on my toes easily but shoes cause me grief and any that are a nice snug fit are worse!
It was diagnosed as RSD some years back but nothing to be done as it is in the bone and they don't know why the nerves react like this.
Anyway, read up on the conditions and see if that helps identify problem.
Jul 05, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		stabbing foot pain
by: Anonymous

I have occasionally experienced stabbing foot pain. It happens randomly and usually lasts from 24 to 48 hours and then goes away again. I've had it on the top of my left foot and also in the toes of my right foot. When it starts, it happens every 30 seconds and lasts just a second or two of stabbing pain. It is like clockwork. It is worse at night and keeps me awake. During the day, I notice it less and can pretty much ignore it. I am sure glad when my feet quiet down again. It always seems to go away after a couple of days which I am glad of. I am diabetic and it seems to come on after an episode of high blood sugar or some times after being sick from something I eat. I glad it does not happen often.
Jul 03, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		sudden sharp foot pain
by: Anonymous

I too have the sharp sudden foot pain i my left foot. I am 48 and fit. Wondered on reading the comments .....do any of the sufferers take medication for blood pressure or thyroid problems? This is the only recent change to my lifestyle ..could this be the link.Medication ?
Jul 02, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Foot pain
by: Anonymous

I have tried creams, NSAIDS, muscle relaxers, cortisone shots, cam walker, rest, ice, ems (electromuscular stimulation), xrays, and MRI. The stabbing pain that would wake me up at night so bad that I needed to sleep with the boot has gone away.
I have been seeing a Chiropractor for 3+ months, and found that I have moderate to severe scoliosis, as well as misaligned hip, and spinal stenosis.
It is believed that sciatica is the culprit, since sciatic pain can run from the buttocks/hip all the way to the big toe on the foot.
The MRI showed mild to moderate inflammation in (3) spots, and appears to be PTTD (posterior tibial tendon dysfunction). However, I was told that an MRI would not show if there were any micro-tears or ruptures.
So, for me I think it's the sciatica pain mixed with the PTTD, which is causing the pain on the top/side of my left foot. I also seem to have the ability to crack my big toe at will, no hands.
I bought basketball shoes, hi-tops, with a very firm bottom. It's important that your footwear is very firm and solid. If your shoe bends easily, that's a problem.
Thanks for all who share here, take care.
Jul 02, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Nerve pain
by: Anonymous

What you just said is very interesting. As I stated before the sharp stabbing pain I had in my right foot has now disappeared after having extensive chiropractic treatment for my spine.
I do have another problem that possibly be related to something like the condition you are reading up on. that being I have horrific pain when I eat hot or warm food. The pain is very strong nerve like pain in my mouth so strong I have to keep cold water on standby to make the pain subside. My dentist and endocrinologist assures me there is nothing wrong with my teeth. Anyone else experiencing this kind of pain?
Jul 02, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Update to 6-12-15 post
by: Steve

Thanks for the commends and advice from your experiences. I have been doing a good deal of research on my own to see if I can connect a common cause. Still have the stabbing pain and Advil, which has never seemed to affect me seems to lesson the pain to make it tolerable.

I am thinking that it is a nerve compression issue and have a Dr Appt to get a referral to an osteopath to examine lower to mid spine for compression or pinching. Don't know if that will help.

On the foot Neuropathy front, since the Dr's call mine an undiagnosed cause I was going into detail about what part of the nerves are damaged, what can be done to stop continued degeneration etc. Ran across a site tonight explaining Genetic disorders/mutations that cause various neuropathic conditions. It named the disease as CMT (CHARCOT-MARIE-TOOTH DISEASE), Named after the Dr's that discovered the defect. Since 3 of my Ant's & Uncles have the same condition I am wondering if this is the cause of my neuropathy?

Since it is genetic CMT can be determined by genome testing. So why was I never told about this and offered a test to rule this out? Is such a test not covered by insurance? (mine is, or, was, pretty good coverage before it got mandated).

I intend to raise the question with my Physician and explore more of this condition. The good news is that for the 5 conditions names, a Collaborative Medical/Pharma team has been able to replicate conditions in a lab and identified for a TMC1B cause, 4 compounds that appear to counter the mutation effect. They are working on pre-trial testing the drugs for human use. While they have found methods to tests these conditions they will or have started the same effort for the other mutation effects (CMT1B, CMT2A, CMT2B, CMT1X). There was a ton of new terms that I am going to have to research about this, just wondering if anyone else has seen the site or heard of this group and work they are doing?

I'll check back later after I research a little more.

On the not so news for me, my finger tips on both hands are becoming numb. Isn't there any way to stop the progress of whatever is causing this? My Wife says I have no feelings anyway and this is soon to prove her right..... ;)
Steve
Jul 01, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Adding to previous post
by: Kathy W

I have also bought a very expensive arch support system which has not relieved the pain.
Jul 01, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		These posts sound like me
by: Kathy W

I have been having this same pain in my left foot for over a year. Been to podiatrist, had shots, pills, immobilization boot, physical therapy, exercise, rest, acupuncture and essential oils. Still have the pain and it feels like I live my life at about 50 percent. I am pretty healthy otherwise. Had to stop things I enjoyed because of the pain.
Jun 24, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		And it happens at night
by: Teresa

And, by the way, Greg, most of the people on this page say that their sudden, intermittent, stabbing foot pain happens at night. The description of metatarsal fault doesn't mention this at all; rather, the pain occurs while up and walking. My pain only ever happens when I am in bed at night, not while walking around during the day. Sorry!
Jun 23, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Not sure it's metatarsal fault
by: Teresa

Re Greg's post, I'm not sure this sudden, stabbing pain on the top of the foot is caused by metatarsal fault. The description of metatarsal fault that Greg refers to does not mention sudden, intermittent, stabbing pain at all. From the description it seems that the pain is constant, worsening or improving depending on the type of footwear worn. Also, the point of the foot where the metatarsal fault occurs is much higher on the foot than the site of this sharp, short, recurrent pain that I and many others here suffer from. This pain typically seems to occur just above the toes, usually between the third and fourth toe. Sorry, ?Greg, but I don't think you've found the answer ... Yet!
Jun 22, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Same foot Pain
by: Greg

I have the same foot pain as everyone is describing. I saw my doctor today who had no idea what it could be. I have done some reading and think its called Midtarsals Fault. In our cases the nerve had become trapped between the 2 bones causing the extreme pain that lasts for up to a minute. The following website has some good info for treatment options:

https://www.foot-pain-explained.com/midtarsal_fault.html

Hope this helps!!!!
Jun 13, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Midtarsal fault?
by: Anonymous

This sounds like a pretty good explanation of what I've experienced.
https://www.foot-pain-explained.com/midtarsal_fault.html
Jun 13, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Interesting Steve
by: Anonymous

Sorry you have joined the club for foot stabbing pain. I am glad to say after several weeks of chiropractic treatment mine went away. However I notice that lately if I have tacked my spine in anyway such as lifting something too heavy I will momentarily get the pain back. After all the money I put out for chiropractic treatment I try to be very careful now. I cannot afford any more series of treatments. The treatment I had consisted of decompression therapy, manipulation of spine with the small instrument (can't remember what is called), tens treatment and laser therapy. All of which together did wonders, for my pain level in my spine also has relieving the foot pain.
Now I am keeping myself in Aqua therapy and also going to have foot surgery to correct feet where the bones are not staying in a normal walking position. They turn in and have been affecting my knees too. I have no way of knowing if any of my relatives every experience the stabbing foot pain I do know that degeneration of the spine runs in my mother's side of the family.
Like you say it does seem that we all have to be our own doctor now days. I think that is due to the fact that there are so many doctors who specialize in the different parts of the body but have not been taught how to discover how one body part effects the other.
Jun 13, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Flip flops the culprit?
by: Anonymous

I had recently changed my exercise routine, starting to do more yoga and spin classes, so attributed the return of this condition to that, but then I realized I had been walking several miles yesterday in flip flops, and I'm sure that's what it is. I'm still not sure exactly what the condition is... I've researched tendinitis, bunions, plantar facaitis, and stress fractures, but none sound exactly right. This board has come to closest to describing the condition. Oh, I'm a 34 year old female in very good physical condition.
Jun 12, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Why is it so hard to find answers?
by: Steve

Hi all of you commiserating pain suffers.

Can only poke fun and laugh or else I would be crying....

In my case, Peripheral Neuropathy began 15 years ago. Usually traced to diabetes, test negative, so it is called "undiagnosed Neuropathy". Pretty miserable.

Neurontin helped but diminished over time. Cymbalta next, takes the edge off, still uncomfortable. Dr’s I ask, what is new with Neuropathy, any progress, studies? "Not yet!"

Then, one of you rats must have shared your pain. Shooting/stabbing pain, top Left foot (Sorry all you righty pain people). Dr’s think blood clot. Left leg ultra sound, shows nothing. "All we can do" I am told. Take Advil. Helps but no piece prize from me.

6 months, no answers. Online spend lots of time researching symptoms. Find a ton of information. Never of all these possible causes, treatments, and even reversal.

My spine could be the cause of all this? Why didn’t you say for before? And also could be chemical deficiency, and could be Genetics, etc., Why did they not rule these causes out?

Guess it is getting to the point "You got to be your own Dr. I hope I get his pay.

Made chiropractic Apt. Then, one step at a time to see if cause can be found. Then an figure out treatment. The drugs are making me loose muscle and hard to keep weight low, messes with cholesterol, etc.

Then, found neuropathy probable causes. Two ring true, 1 chemical imbalance, 2 Family Genetics.

Asked my Dad if anyone in the family had these problems. "not that I know of". He passed away early in April. My 3 sisters came from East to West Coast for funeral. I ask them, do any family members have these symptoms. Geez did I hit the jackpot.
2 of 4 of my Aunts, 1 Uncle, all for over 20 years now. Genetics?
Reviewed list of symptoms. Yup, all cut form the same cloth.

I guess Genetic tests in the near future.

But, how can I get the Dr. to order the tests? Any ideas?

If I find anything that really helps me, I’ll post it here in the future.

Meantime, nice to vent.

Hope all you find peace and a pain free life somehow.
Jun 05, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Eva Ohio
by: Anonymous

I am 90 years old, had a lot of pain in my life but nothing like this,I woke up around two this morning with this stabbing pain in my left foot.
I also have foot cramps a lot. It is now 9 in the evening, and it still did not ease up. Is there something I can do?
Jun 01, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		shocking foot pain
by: Anonymous

I had this shock like foot pain that felt like someone had just stabbed me or zapped the top of my foot with an electric shocker a few years back. I went to the doctor and was told it was from sitting and crossing my legs. Sure enough. I stopped sitting that way and it stopped. It has come back a few time and so then I stop sitting that way again and it stops. There is a nerve or something that gets pinched when sitting that way.
May 23, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I hear ya! Add me to the list.
by: Sherry

It started very early this morning for me, hours before I was going to get up. About ever 30 seconds it felt like a searing hot needle was
being quickly jabbed into the mid-right side of the top of my left foot. It shoots through me like a shock wave. It's probably not quite as bad as some of the people who are saying that it feels like being stabbed by a knife, because it's a very specific small spot, but it seems to shoot from the skin then deep into my foot. Well, so much for trying to sleep. It happened less frequently once I got up, but is still continuing now. And a minute ago, I felt a much smaller one on my left foot! I am type 2 diabetic and did have a ice cream cake last night...but this is not like any diabetic neuropathy I've ever had before. I'm trying the supplements, but I just hope that it goes away!!!
May 13, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Right Foot pain
by: Anonymous

Most people here seem to be referring to L foot pain. Mind was on the Right and I am right handed and I am certain the pain was being referred from my back as like I said earlier Chiropractic Care cleared it up. Like everyone else said it was sudden and out of this world pain. Sure glad it's gone.
May 13, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Back Problem and Foot Pain
by: Anonymous

I am absolutely certain that the stabbing foot pain I was experiencing was caused from my back, at a point in the middle of my back. I went for chiropractic treatment over a period of weeks and the pain went away by the second week.
Recently however I was doing some back stretches on my bed and suddenly I felt a sharp pain in my back and then a sudden sharp pain right in the top of my foot same place as the previous pain had been occurring.
Since then I have been really babying my back. I AM refraining from picking up any heavy objects or bending too far out of my normal range of back movements.

I have a degenerative disk disease and I am learning to take better care of my spine. I also learned to that my flat feet have led to scoliosis which really makes sense as when your body frame is out of alignment it creates wear and tear of the rest of the body. I wouldn't recommend buying a $300 pair of custom insert like I did as they only led to more pain in my feet. I am now looking in an alternative to that if anyone is interested. I will let you know how it works out.
May 11, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Crazy pain is making me wonder what's going on
by: Nancy

First I want go say I was happy to see so many people posted about their
pain on top of their left foot. Pain is scarey and doesn't want to be singled out. I hope we all find what is causing this odd pain. Mine is on the top left side of my left foot, it stabs intensely for 5-10 seconds then comes back over and over for long enough for me to take Tylenol.
I have patella femoral syndrome and sciatica. This may be coming from my knee or back? Don't know what to do. I will make an appointment with my PCP.
It's tough getting old...59 years old and relatively healthy.
Apr 30, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		what is our commonality
by: Becca

Have been experiencing this sudden hot, intense pain, on the top of my left foot for about two months now. Like others have explained, this pain is incredibe. There is no gradual warning that it's coming on, merely strikes anytime day or night. After reading many of the comments here, I am asking myself; what do we all have in common?
1.) If it occurs in the left foot, are you right handed and vice versa?
2.) Is there a pattern of sleep disorders? I myself have never needed much sleep, averaging two to three hours of sound sleep and then the rest is broken up and very light.

I noticed many say they can't sleep whether its due to foot pain or another reason. Also bad food certainly affects us all. Everything is processed or has been sprayed with chemicals. All I know for certain is...it hurts like hell! Yesterday I was grocery shopping and it hit, wham. It would let up for 15-30 seconds and then hit again. Each time lasting longer than before. Twenty minutes later I'm trying to get out to my car and start hyperventilating and crying in the parking lot. Today my muscles hurt in both thighs and my foot is sore.

So far for me, all roads lead to something occurring within brain activity. WE MUST FIND THE COMMANALITY!! I refuse to sit back and allow this to ruin my life.
Apr 29, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		Stabbing Pain in Right Foot Gone
by: Anonymous

In a previous comment I stated I was going to see another chiropractor which I did. After about 4 treatment two weeks in a row the pain finally went away. It definitely was caused from my back problems. The new doctor used a Pulsestar treatment on my spine along with laser treatment, tens, and a modern decompression table. The treatment has greatly helped my lower back pain as well. He also had be placing an ice pack on my spine 10 min on then 10 min off, moving it to different parts of my spine which were hurting. Glad that pain is gone it was horrific and I never want to experience again.
Apr 29, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		!!CORRECTION TO PREVIOUS COMMENT!!!
by: Randy K

With regards to my previous long post, I need to make a correction after glancing through it.

Where it says:
"I took 200mg Ibuprofen - Followed instructions, taking 400mg - four times per day for two days in a row"

It was meant to say:
"I took 200mg Ibuprofen - Followed instructions, taking 200mg - four times per day for two days in a row"

Regardless, I took 200mg (not 400mg) four times per day as directed on the label. I think I could have taken it up to 6 times per day, but I only took it 4 times per day in addition to the vitamins mentioned.

Hope this helps. As mentioned, always seek a doctors guidance prior to using the solution that worked for me, or for anyone else.

Randy

RESPONSE
As rightfully noted by the poster, always check with your doctor prior to taking any medication, even over the counter medication, especially if it is going to be for a prolonged period of time.

Over the counter anti-inflammatory medication does have side effects which include stomach irritation, possible kidney damage and since they retain salt, can be harmful in people, especially elderly individuals who suffer from high blood pressure.

Marc Mitnick DPM
Apr 29, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		MY PAIN IS GONE!!! HERE'S HOW!!!!
by: Randy

I THANK THE LORD FOR THIS SITE!
PAIN IS GONE - I HOPE THIS POST HELPS YOU TOO!

Always check with your doctor prior to taking any actions that I mention in this post, but here is the solution that worked for me.

After reading numerous posts on this page I found that several of the people who have found freedom from pain mentioned some great information.

I'm a 41 year old guy, who is not physically fit, mildly overweight (could loose it pretty quick).

For me the pain was on the top of the right foot, although I've noticed many if not most people on this site are having the pain on their left foot.

While I am not a diabetic I've noticed many of the people affected by this pain are diabetic.

Although I'm not a diabetic, and the issue occurred to my right foot instead of my left foot I'm completely convinced that my explosive pain was the same condition as is being identified by most others on this site.

One kind person on this site offered great advice, mentioning that they noticed a high blood sugar was present every time the pain began, so it sounds like diet can help reduce the likelihood that foster this painful condition will start up again.

While I'm not a diabetic I have eaten excessive levels of carbs lately due to my poverty I'm eating really cheap which seems to equal a lot of bread, potatoes, rice, noodles. Maybe I need to get checked for diabetes again myself.

Regardless, as mentioned above, the solution for me was:
I took 2500mcg Vitamin B12 - Two days in a row
I took 800iu Vitamin E - Two days in a row
I took 200mg Ibuprofen - Followed instructions, taking 400mg - four times per day for two days in a row

During these two days I also highly reduced my carb & sugar intake since it may possibly be linked to this condition, and I also highly reduced my sodium intake since my foot was slightly swollen from soaking it in freezing ice water numerous times to try to find any possible solution to my problems before finding this site.

After the above two day program was complete (i.e. after discontinuing the above listed vitamins & ibuprofen) after two days, my pain was greatly reduced, and also the frequency of pain jolt outbreaks was greatly reduced to a point where I could finally start sleeping through the night again. On the second night I don't recall even having a single jolt of pain that woke me up.

The next day (day 3 of this vitamin treatment) my foot swelling was almost completely gone - it seemed to reduce along with the pain jolts. On day 3 I also began taking a quality Daily Multi-Vitamin that I bought a bottle of from a vitamin store (not a low cost synthetic daily vitamin).

The next day (day 4) I finally felt zero pain jolts at all to my great relief. The pain was completely gone. Completely. I prayed thanks to God who I had been asking to heal me.

As you likely know - the pain can be so excessive that you become dysfunctional. It was so severe I was nearly unable to walk. I literally felt that if the pain would not leave I would prefer to have my foot amputated so I could live a functional life again - even if it was with crutches or an artificial foot. The pain was so intense I was afraid to leave home as people thought I was a freak for yelling out and grabbing my foot out of the blue, and even going to the ground in pain at times.

This was the second time the condition had surfaced for me. The first time it seemed to disappear out of the blue - but not until after I went to the hospital out of fear that this pain was a blood clot that would kill me. I hadn't been to the Emergency Room for 20+ years.

Anyway, today is the second totally pain free day I've had since this latest occurrence just less than a week ago.

This thread literally changed my life, and I made a commitment to myself that if the solutions I've read about in this post worked that I too would make a post in hopes of helping others who visit this site. I don't know if this solution will work for everybody or not but as I mentioned ask your doctor and if they say it's ok to try you have very little to loose.

I wish I knew if there was a name for this condition so I could learn more about it.

Regardless, thank you for reading this post & God Bless everyone who has this problem and is seeking relief.

Randy
Apr 23, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Stabbing sudden foot pain on top of foot
by: Debby

Oh my gosh. This started for me a couple of weeks ago and I can't believe how many people have this. I am 66, very fit and have a very messed up left foot but this is in my right foot, the good one! It stabs and last from 5 seconds to maybe 20 or 30 seconds. It is not muscle pain, I know that. Apparently it can't be diagnosed according the multiple entries on this page. If anyone figures this out, please post.
Apr 01, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		what is it?
by: Carrie P

I am 33 yr old mother, and currently pregnant. I started feeling stabbing pain on the top of my left foot about 24 hrs ago. Its intermittent, but it lasts 3-10 seconds and repeats every minute or so.
I have had cortisone injections in my left wrist for tendonitis, but didn't think it would happen on the top of my foot :(
it doesn't get worse or better when i walk, sit, stand or even palpate the area.
i thought maybe it could be pregnancy related.
Any advice would be appreciated.
Mar 22, 2015
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starstarstarstarstar 		possible cause
by: Anonymous

my left shoe was laced too tight across the top.
intermittent stabbing pain has been gone for 2 days since loosened shoe.
Mar 21, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Stabbing Pain on top of foot.
by: Anonymous

I started having stabbing pains intermittently on the top of both of my feet not at the same time but now it is mostly in my right foot. I've suffered with foot pain for a few years but nothing like this.
I have a bad back and have been going for decompression treatments. This has started since my treatment began So my thinking is that the pain is related to the nerves in my spine.
I'm going to go to another doctor this coming week and get his opinion about it. The pain comes on so quickly and is so excruciating I can't help but yell as I see other people have said previously.
Mar 16, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Right Foot
by: Anonymous

Stabbing pain in left side of right foot. Went to podiatrist. He said I had changed my workout routine. I had not. He wanted me to Pain is more intense now and has moved up where I now feel it on top of the same foot but on top. Never have had any problem with the left foot. It is a stabbing pain that last for several seconds. I never know when it will start. I work out every day from 30 - 40 minutes. Very disheartening. Doctor wanted me to do steroids but told me that it would bring immune system down so low that I could not be around anyone sick (Hello I work). He had me start all over with my workouts and only do half speed and incline for 6 weeks. Pain never went away but then went to the top of the foot.
Mar 12, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Reply to Ananymous
by: Teresa

Dear Anonymous, Please don't panic! As you can see from all the contributions to this page, you are not alone in suffering from these sharp, stabbing pains on the top of your foot. I am very confident in assuring you that it is NOT caused by being sexually over-active! It may be a neurological problem or a problem with a tendon in your foot. Some people here recommend taking supplements etc, but the medical profession seems to have very little knowledge of this condition and so far there is no known cure. It is a most distressing affliction and I really hope you (and everyone else) find some relief. Please talk to your doctor about it and maybe show him/her this page.
Mar 12, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		PTTD
by: Anonymous

Foot Doctor told me its PTTD, basically A worn out or torn tendon in my foot and causes the arch go collapse.
I'm in a Cam Walker tall boot, and the stabbing pain has gone away. I even sleep with this boot on. Only take it off when I take a shower. Hope this helps.
Mar 11, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Knife Stabbing Top Of Right Foot
by: Barb

So sorry to hear all the comments. I got my first knife staffing pain on top of right foot by 3rd and 4th toe in pain last night and it brought me to tears.

I just turned 60 and am not as active as I used to be as I've been unemployed for 1 year. I go barefoot around the house which I know you need to wear some sort of supportive shoes.

I have plantar fasciitis and this year got a herniated disk at L3-4.

I have tingling and numbing in both feet and lower legs. I got prescribed Ketoprofen-Cyclobenz 20% from my Podiatrist for my Plantar Fascitis. You get this at a Specialty Pharmacy. It has helped a lot with both feet. I also have a muscle stem machine and it is also helping. Also took B-12.

In a little bit will try some red wine.

I would really like to find out what this pain is.
I am also glad I am not the only person with this.
God Bless to All.
Mar 08, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		What the heck
by: Anonymous

What is it, I am 26 year old. Is it normal to have it in this age???

I know nobody knows the reason and I know no doctor would able to tell why it is, but please suggest me guys what should I do if anyone of you know how to treat this...

Is it because I am sexually over active or it is the diet I am totally blank please help..It is affecting my work life!!!!
Mar 04, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstar 		Me too!!
by: Anne

My foot pain started well over a month ago. The searing, stabbing, electric cattle prod pains has a mind of its own and visits me any time and anywhere. It can occur over 7 times a day or none at all. The pain ( as in many of these posts ) occurred on the top of my left foot and lasts anywhere from a few seconds to 15 seconds. It just about brings me to my knees. I tend to swear a lot during these attacks!! Not so good when one is in public. I haven't been able to find out much on line about this foot problem and am worried with so many people just " learning to live with it ". Quite a scary prognosis. I am currently away from home for another month, but upon my return will certainly be heading to my Doc. to see if he has any suggestions. Hanging in there seems to be what I have to look forward to. It is good to know though that I am not alone with this problem…
Mar 04, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Stabbing pain left foot
by: Anonymous

While sitting in a recliner, I experienced a pain on the top of left foot that quickly evolved from annoying to excruciating. This stabbing sensation occurred every 15 to 20 seconds, lasting about 2 to 4 seconds. This pain was located just behind the 3 middle toes, accompanied by some numbness. The next 48 hours were spent almost sleepless, with no relief. An exam by FP produced no diagnosis, and no treatment. Medical history: 67 yrs M, type 2 diabetes well controlled; stage 4 kidney disease; 75" 250 lbs. Active, former high level athlete. Doc ruled out any relation of pain to conditions above, including neuropathy.
In reading previous blogs on this site by other sufferers, I saw one recommending dose of super B12, Mg, and Vit E. Not a believer in supplements, but took it anyway. Pain GONE within 4 hours.. It works.
Mar 04, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Worked for me
by: Tad

I recently suffered from the same intermittent stabbing pain in the top of my left foot. This was worse at night and kept me awake for several nights.
Applying an ice pack was suggested and helped some but was not practical while asleep.

My doctor prescribed Buspirone. An internet search revealed that this drug was meant to treat anxiety.
I figured I'd give it a try and took one pill during the afternoon. Then another the next morning. I got some relief and took a pill the next two nights before bed. It has been two painless weeks since taking only four Buspirone pills.

Hope this helps.... Tad
Mar 03, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Left Foot Stabbing Pain
by: Jane - South Florida

I thought I was the only person with this til I decided to check it on line. So reassuring to know that I'm not alone. I'm a fit 60 year old woman and this pain just started about a week ago. Hits me at night after work and is happening right now that I have my feet up. I'm up and down all day at work so it's not something that is caused by lack of circulation or being sedentary. When it happens, it makes my foot jump. Position of pain is much the same as most of you - top of left foot. I've practiced yoga most of my life and eat well. What on earth is causing this?
Mar 02, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Agonizing, knife-like stabbing pains on left foot
by: Neo

Hey, it's unfortunately good to see that I'm not alone. I have been awakened by a sharp, agonizing pain many times, as if someone is sticking a sharp knife into the side of my left foot. I've also gotten that horrific pain while driving. It's one of the worst painful experiences in my life, and I've been through a few.
It's not gout: my big toe is not deformed or inflamed. I don't think it's plantar fasciitis, because I have no heel pain. My pain is focused on the side of the left foot, beneath the toe but not on the toe itself. This pain also seems to radiate to the top right side of my foot, where bones and ligaments are. It also radiates into the sole by the top of the arch.
I don't think it's Mortons neuroma, because my pain is not under the 3rd & 4th toe.
Does anyone else experience what I am experiencing? Does anyone know what to do: see a Neurologist? Hand and Foot Specialist? Rheumatologist? Chiropractor?
I am not diabetic. I have neck and back pain as well. I think it's a nervous system issue, but we'll see. I hope everyone feels better from this terrible affliction.
Mar 01, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Top left foot stabbing killer pain
by: Caroline

Caroline from Sweden here.

Was at the movies - when this red hot electrical stabbing on the top of the left foot made me scream out loud. People thought a murder was taking place.
WTF?!?!
Out of nowhere. This "jump out ot my skin" pain has returned several times now, always at the same spot, top left foot. Happy to have found this page, although there seems to be no answer to the unpleasant phenomena.
Feb 06, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		The horrible stabbing pain
by: Joe

I do recognise the common descriptions of the horrible intermittent stabbing pain in the top of my right foot. I was awake all night. I have been shocked by how debilitating the experience was. I am saddened for the people who have experienced this for years. I will be following this site to get valuable insight because I cannot allow myself to have it again without taking some action to prevent the horrible experience.

I thank people for sharing their experiences and I hope from these collective insights we arrive at a range of accessible remedies.
Feb 04, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		It's not gout!
by: Teresa

To the person who said it could be gout, I doubt this very much. Gout is an inflammation of a joint,typically the big toe joint, with acute arthritic pain, swelling and heat in the joint and deposit of uric acid crystals. It can come on suddenly but the pain is not intermittent like the pains described in this thread. No one in this thread has described swelling, heat or arthritic pain in a particular joint or joints. The pain is sudden, sharp and stabbing and comes and goes in a matter of seconds, repeating for minutes or hours, while the pain of gout persists for days or weeks with remission in between attacks.
Feb 04, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sudden Horrific Pain on Top of Foot
by: Bonnie

I have experienced relief after reading the comment by the guy who resolved his sudden top of foot pain by taking supplements. I had 2 months of unpredictable, sometimes repeating sudden brief pains (level 9 on a scale of 1-10) that happened 1-3 times per day (including nights). After a visit with a neurologist I realized I was on my own with this. The neurologist assured me it was not neurological. I realized for the past year I had made a big dietary change to eating a mostly vegan diet AND, probably more importantly, I had mostly stopped taking supplements. Now, I probably take too many and will get around to seeing a naturopath, that I trust a lot, for her advice. But the great thing is that by the next day, after I started taking supplements again and added a B-complex to my already large list of supplements, I have had no further sudden excruciating top of foot pains now for a month. I am so grateful!
Feb 03, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		horrible paini
by: Anonymous

Sounds like your foot pain could be gout
Feb 01, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Horrible Pain!
by: Anonymous

Stabbing indeed!...I now know what Jesus felt when they rammed the nail through the top of his foot!

I have this pain also...It's horrible!...The only thing that seems to give relief is to hang my foot over the side of the bed to let the blood flow there better...Not much you can do when it hits while your driving or sitting...Red wine should help a lot.
Jan 30, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Like someone drives a nail through my foot!!
by: Dr. Ken

All of the sudden @ 2am it happens and I jump out of bed with the feeling that someone had just shot my foot with a nail gun, or scorpion sting, or electric shock, I just have many things it would feel like. The pain is sudden and lasts for about 5-10 seconds and occurring every 30-45 seconds or so. I have had it last anywhere from 6-8hrs to 18-24+hours. I cannot understand why the medical community does not know what this is?? I am fairly confident it has something to do with disc and nerve pain but I have recently had 5 discs (L2-thru-S1) and not a fun surgery so ya would think the surgeon would have taken care of thAt somehow?? But yet HERE IT IS!!!
I truly relate to all of you with this type of pain but I continue to take major narcotics and neurontin and NEITHER even touch this pain!! Any help appreciated!!
Jan 27, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		AND YET ANOTHER
by: Anonymous

I AM AN 82 YEAR OLD FEMALE WITH A LONG LIST OF MEDICATIONS AND ILLNESSES. TWO YEARS AGO I HAD SURGERY FOR LUNG CANCER; AM COMPLETELY FREE NOE.
SEVERAL MONTHS AGO I HAD BACK SURGERY, A LAMINECTOMY. I HAVE BEEN GOING TO PT, AND IT HAS BEEN WORKING. A FEW NIGHTS AGO I STARTED EXPERIENCING A STABBING PAIN IN THE LEFT FOOT, ABOUT THE ANKLE AND INSTEP AREA. IT HURTS MORE, AND OCCURS MORE FREQUENTLY WHEN I AM SITTING. HAPPENS SEVERAL TIMES EVERY 5 MINUTES. RIGHT NOW I AM BEING DRIVEN AWAY FROM THE PC BECAUSE OF THE PAIN.
I DO HAVE PEMPHIGUS. ANYTHING MORE ON THIS TOPIC? WISH WE COULD START A ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION.
Jan 24, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		... And guess what?
by: Teresa

And guess what: after posting the comment below yesterday, I had a perfectly UNinterrupted night's sleep last night with never a sign of my shooting foot pains. Have I inadvertently discovered a cure?! I did nothing different yesterday, ate nothing different, but the pains that have been plaguing me at night for weeks - months,even - simply didn't appear. These pains are indeed most mysterious. I wonder how long I will experience this relief before they come back again ...
Jan 23, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		This is amazing
by: Teresa

I am female, 70 years old, and a Type 1 diabetic for 40 years. I also suffer from this sharp, stabbing pain on the the top of my left foot above the third and fourth toes. It starts to come on the evening when I am lying on the couch watching TV and then gets worse after I am in bed. It is an intermittent pain, not as intense as some other people here experience ( it doesn't make shout out or cry), but no amount of moving or rubbing my foot makes it go away. I usually end up taking a Panadeine tablet to allow me to sleep. Completely gone when I wake in the morning and I forget about it all day until it starts up again in the evening. I also sometimes suffer from restless legs in bed at night but this seems to be a separate problem. My GP prescribed Magnesium tablets and they seem to help a little bit with the restless legs but not with the stabbing pains on top of my foot. I am amazed to read of all these people suffering from the same problem and I wonder why it seems to be so little understood by the medical profession. I am going to mention it to my Endocrinologist at my next diabetes checkup in March.
Jan 08, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		sharp ice pick level pain on top of left foot
by: Barb

It is oddly comforting to read how many of you are managing this same phenomenon. What has been the most effective treatment? Though I've never experienced a heart attack, the top left portion of my foot, off and on in the past two days has created momentary screaming pains for seconds. Hoping I don't feel it again tonight or tomorrow.
Jan 01, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Planar fasciitus
by: Anonymous

I'm 67.... Here again. No repeat for 3 weeks. Googled ,foot overuse, and planar fasciitus may be problem. I was wearing flip flops around house, and walking too far for my age maybe. P.f. Says heel pain mostly, but some sites describe arch area pain too.

Flip Flops are notorious for causing plantar fasciitis.

Marc Mitnick DPM
Dec 26, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Inserts and less walking
by: Anonymous

I'm 67, good health/weight/diet,etc. Had 2 events of shooting pain last few months, 1 in each foot. Momentary with no repetition. Last on Dec 14th.
Also, have minor prickly sensations legs,hands,arms,feet. Sleep well at night. Regular Doc said L metatarsal_ neuroma maybe. Podiatrist appnt. Jan 12th.
But_ r doc said to get Superfeet inserts. I did and wear them everywhere,_indoors around house also. I wore leather soled street shoes too much and laced tight over the years. So maybe the problem. And last pain shock was after a long walk when sitting in a chair back in the house. Now exercise on bike in gym, and looking for a pool to join.
Dec 21, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Stabbing Pain on Top of Foot
by: Anonymous

Hi all,
A weird phenomena indeed. I too had these stabbing pains on top of my left foot for the past few days and of course at random times. My wife suggested I try Slow.Mag ... this is a magnesium capsule, I did and so far for two days now absolutely zero sharp stabbing and no pain.I hope this is the last of that.
The weirdest for me was walking and getting these jolts, people around me thought I was having a seizure of sorts ...
A scientific explanation would be good though. Good luck
Dec 21, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		stabbing pain on the left foot .
by: masville

I read most of the comments and someone posted that he used the pain cream or spray called NEURAGEN .This would gradually reduce most of the pain .I purchased it at CVS pharmacy in the diabetic section .I hope this help you too .God bless! Feel better !
Dec 14, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Started last night
by: Dan UK

Well one Google of sharp stabbing pain in left foot led me straight here. I am 26... 5f10 and in good health/shape... I am currently on a snowboarding holiday in France. Started last night in the middle of the night I thought I rolled over and landed my
Foot on a pike! Then Nothing for a few hours and then bang... Hit me again.wole
Up this morning with no pain spent the day on the slopes and thought nothing of it. Went to bed and all was well... Been awake since 3am
Started as one hit maybe every 30min now it's every 10/30 seconds and its 5:53am it's reassuring to hear I'm not the only one... And it's crappy to read no one knows what or why really it sounds different for most people.

Will keep this updated through the week
Going to try and cut out some sugars and sleep differently as step one.

Wish me luck and I feel your laint of everyone on here!
Nov 22, 2014
Rating
starstarstar 		Red hot poker pain
by: Anonymous

Hi I am a 51 yr old female and the last 6 months I get woken out of a sound sleep ,not all the time but enough that I can't take it anymore, I have back problems all the way from l-2 to s-1,it feels like some is sticking either my left foot or right foot with a red hot poker and it happened again last night does anyone know what this is ?? and how to make it stop ,my husband says I wake up screaming .
Nov 19, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		wow me too....
by: Anonymous

I'm a 51 year old male in good health. I woke up around 4am last night and started to experience pain in my left foot like i never knew was possible. Out of nowhere, like someone driving a spike through the top of my left foot, the pain was unreal. Lasted only a few seconds, then gone like it never even happened. Happened several times the first hour, then stopped a few hours, and then hit at random all through the morning. Took 3 motrin and a couple aspirin, that may have helped. I have NO clue where this has come from, I did nothing to my foot, it doesn't hurt to walk or touch. No foot problems at all. The pain makes me cry out whenever it happens, it's that bad. A few seconds and it's over. Seems a lot of you have experienced this. No idea....What on earth?
Nov 18, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		32 Year Old Health Male
by: Anonymous

I found this website today because last night and this morning I experienced pain similar to what others are describing. The pain feels like a hot poker or needle being inserted in my right foot, near the toes. Last night it occurred on and off for about 10 minutes while I was falling asleep in bed. It occurred again this morning for 5 minutes while I was sitting in an office chair. Each occurrence lasted no longer than 30 seconds. I am a 32 year old healthy male; 6 feet 1 inch weighing 180 pounds. I tore ligaments in this ankle once, 6 years ago, but this pain is completely different.
Oct 19, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Foot pain on top of foot
by: Anonymous

We tried the remedy of b12, ibuprofen and my husband (50 yrs old)experienced a significant decrease of pain. He typically eats sweets before bed. I believe the pain was from his body not being able to metabolize the sugar. Try this remedy and cut out the sweets.
Oct 05, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Follow-up on Neuragen
by: Anonymous

Sorry folks, the Neuragen that I tried did not last long at all. It seemed to give me relief for a short time but never took the pain away. Once I get the severe hot stabbing pain, my skin actually becomes so tender to the touch that it is painful to put a sock on. I see my Dr this week and we will see what he can tell me.
Oct 04, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		foot pain
by: matt b.

my stabbing pain is every 5 min day or night,lasts for 5 seconds then goes away, went to urgent care,xrays showed nothing. got a shot in the rear, and two types of medications.
nothing has helped..its soooo annoying !!!
between the big toe and one right next to that..WTH!!TODAY IS DAY 5!! PLEASE HELP !!
ITS got to be something to do with my tendants nerves

If it is a problem local to the specific area then a cortisone injection directly into the area may be more beneficial then the one you probably got in your rear.

You may also want to consider seeing a foot specialist.

Marc Mitnick DPM
Oct 02, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Stabbing pain in top of right foot
by: Anonymous

Thank you for all your comments because now I am not as shocked. I am 49 and I was just driving and all of a sudden it felt like someone stabbed my foot with a hot poker! It hurt so bad that I could barely walk for about 10 minutes. Now I am having aches all through my ankles and a different type of pain. I sure wish we had more answers on all of this. I took all my vitamins when I got home but my feet are still hurting. I exercise, eat healthy to the extreme, and I am a small person so I am baffled. My mom does have neuropathy so that scares me a bit. Does anyone know if neuropathy is genetic?
Sep 29, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Srarp stabbing pain in inner arch n top of foot
by: Illoozions

I had this last year to the point that I was walking with a cane and in intermittant severe pain in my inner arch radiating to the top of the foot. After a month or two it finally subsided. July of this year it came back again and as others have said it brings me to tears. it is so painful that the surrounding skin cannot even be touched without more pain. I have a total knee replacement on that leg and I also have chronic back pain from prior herniated discs and cracked vertabrae. I take pain medication infrequently for my back pain when it becomes too much,and tried it for this pain. It doesn't affect it at all, I have tried anti inflamatories,ice,heat wrapping also to np avail. In desperation I rememebered a medication a podiatrist gave me a couple years ago for another foot issue it was called 'Neuragen" I rubbed it in and almost immediately the pain subsided. I will re-post here in a few days and let you know if this will continue to work or how long it gives me relief. Keep you fingers crossed.
Sep 08, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		left foot pain
by: Barry

My pain feels like someone thrusting a hot needle into my left foot,on the side of the foot and spreading to the top. The pain makes my leg jump, but only lasts a second or two and is slightly relieved by rubbing or just some form of contact with the skin by my right foot.
My pains started a few years ago and I attributed it to old age and lived with it - I'm 74 now. Eventually I went to a podiatrist who said I must get better shoes. This I did and it worked for about 12 months with no recurrance.
But last night, about 1 am I was woken by a stab in the foot again. It has repeated since with no regularity - sometimes every few seconds, then a gap of a minute or two. Sleep was hopeless. I have been wearing good boots.
My condition lasts for about 3 or 4 days before going away. Neither my doctor nor podiatrist have any idea what it is. I wondered if it may be a constricted blood vessel with blood forcing its way through, but it is not regular enough for this I don't think.
It is interesting to find people have the pain in different sites on the foot, but, it seems, always on the left foot.
I am pleased to find this site to know I am not alone in this condition.
Sep 05, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Thank you Dr. Mitnick
by: Anonymous

Thanks a ton! That is the first I've heard of tarsal tunnel and that seems to describe it exactly. I did a lot of walking on crappy shoes over this past weekend and exercised yesterday for the first time in over a week. I bet that triggered it.

Going to try some arch supports and see what happens! Thanks so much again. I think it's great you put time into helping people over the web for free.

Best
Sep 05, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		First felt in 2011, now back again in 2014
by: Anonymous

I'm 5'4" female, eat healthy (clean/organic/lots of chicken, fish, fruit and veggies), take my vitamins and supplements, exercise 2-3 times/wk however, I do love my beer on weekends.

First felt the same fast lightening bolt pains folks described back in 2011. My pain is in the left foot, inner side of the foot, just below the ankle bone. Lasted about a week in 2011. Short 5-10 sec intervals at a time, without warning as others described. Went away for over 3 years and felt my first one ever since then last night about 3am. Just one, but the fear of it repeating kept me up the rest of the night. It is, like others said, the worst screaming pain ever felt.

Saw a general practitioner, orthopedic, neurologist and podiatrist all during that week in 2011. X rays, blood tests, nerve tests...nothing. Chaulked it up to stress as I was getting married that weekend (was not cold feet as many joked!). Today, I'm not experiencing any stress so I'd have to rule that out and my diet today is 10 times better than in 2011. I'm at a loss.

I cannot make a diagnosis without actually examining you, but I would suggest to you that the pain is of mechanical origin, probably as a result of exercise. Your diet and stress, or lack thereof, probably have nothing to do with it. Two conditions that I would have looked into include tarsal tunnel and posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, based on where your pain is located.

Marc Mitnick DPM
Aug 22, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		pain in left foot
by: Anonymous

Hey, so i read about your pain and thought that it sounded so similar to mine that i had to share what i did to 'cure' it.
Arch Support. I cannot stress it enough. Wear them and you'll be walking fine. Forget and you'll find yourself limping like you no doubt do now.
I swear i was skeptical myself but after visiting doctor after doctor and finally being seen by a specialist he recommended arch supports straight away, and i could tell the difference after one shift at work.
I forgot to use the inserts the other day and am paying for it now. Goddamn i forgot how painful this got! Good luck.
Aug 22, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sudden sharp stabbing pain in the top of one foot
by: Debbie K. Tomball, TX

58 year old survivor of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma 4 years ago. Chemo induced neuropathy started during round 7 or 8 rounds of very poisonous chemotherapy in 2010. Became type 2 diabetic 3 years after treatment, when in Nov. 2013 I went cold turkey of of several extremely powerful, doctor prescribed opiate regime because I believed I would rather try to deal on my own with the extreme pain that my chemo damaged body now lives with... so many after cancer damages to my once healthy body. All caused by chemo. The horrible tingling/numbing and unbelievable burning pain in both feet are now managed by a special prescription cream applied topically 3-4 times daily... formulated by a pharmacy in Dallas... prescribed by a "God-send" podiatrist I now see. All this being said... tonight this horrific, intermittent, stabbing pain at the base of my toes in one foot is taking my breath away for several seconds every few minutes. I can't believe that I may have something new to deal with. "Chemotherapy. The gift that keeps giving year after year." {{huge sigh}} :-(
Aug 14, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Have experienced this pain also.
by: JC

I have been to my primary care about this and she thought it could be Morton's Neuroma. I saw my podiatrist who tried a cortisone injection. No relief. No one seems to know why this pain comes when it does. I am not diabetic. It's not related to activity. Some days I walk a great deal, some not so much. I do know when the pain comes it is horrible. I am usually in bed when it strikes. I try ice, heat, Advil, anything to make it go away. Nothing works. I have to believe it's nerve related. It had gone away for about a year and a half and came back two nights ago without any warning.
Aug 08, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Lightning stabbing pain
by: Anonymous

I am 37 years old I have this lightning stabbing pain that comes out of no where it could happen anytime of the day even when you are sleeping, I woke up at 2am this morning with a severe painful lightning stabbing pain that brought me down to my knees on top of my foot. I want to know what causes this sharp pain to form I have been feeling this foot pain 5 years ago and the doctors that have seen me don't know what causes it. I need some help guys.
Aug 05, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		nail in the foot pain
by: Anonymous

had for yrs went to pod has no clue took steriods nothing it is aweful just have to live with it
Jul 17, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Returning Pains due to High Sugar and Food
by: Andrew - Dallas, TX

Hey everyone, glad you are here, but I am sorry for the pain that drove you here. I may have some very good news for you, however!

Well, I am back here because the nemesis of our sound health, "demon foot stabber" has returned to strike me again in the middle of the night, this after months of relief(since April, see post below). Same pain, different day. Woke me up at 4:00 this morning with a small, tingle on the top of my left foot, and I knew what was coming. Another sleepless night, filled with these stabs of intermittent shooting pains. The good news is I now know how to fight this! First thing I checked was my blood sugar, and it was very high. I took some fast acting insulin to bring it down, and 2 hours later, I'm at 300 and it is still dropping. Then I took 2 B12, 2 Vitamin E, 2 Ibuprofen, 1 Gabapentin and 2 pints of water to flush my system.

This pain has happened 3 times this week, and each night it is the result of high blood sugars, sparked by eating a bowl of Special K with strawberries. Now, I eat this cereal every night because I love it and it helps me fall asleep, but NOT EATING TOO MANY OF THESE BERRIES then, NO PROBLEM! It’s when I eat A LOT of the cereal, and A LOT of these berries, that these pains strike!

There is something in this cereal; there is something in other foods with a certain shared ingredient or process, which causes this effect! As a type 1 insulin dependent diabetic, we may be more susceptible to these nerve issues, but I have run high blood sugars before multiple times and not had these pains.

Three (3) other nights this week I woke up with these pains and I took the above mentioned steps AND GOT TOTAL RELIEF in about 6-8 hours, but I took two Super-B Complex and an aspirin instead of the B12 (ran out) along with the other items/steps. Again, I GOT TOTAL RELIEF IN 6-8 HOURS.

I am going to keep this comment open until I get relief. If my relief comes by 12:00 noon today, PLEASE CONSIDER THIS REMEDY its 7:00 AM, talk with you soon.

Ok, I just woke up at 11:00 AM and the sharp pains are gone! Amazing! Take (2) 1,000 mg B-12 or Super-B Complex, (2) 400 mg Vitamin E, (2) Ibuprofen or Aspirin, (1) Gabapentin 400 mg prescription drug and (2)-(3) pints of purified water! TRY II PLEASE! Hope this helps you.
Jul 11, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstar 		Please Help, Any info would help.
by: Daniel

I'm am 21 years old, 125 lbs, a smoker for 5 years, very low physical exercise, an a terrible diet on top of it.

I don't know how else to describe the pain, besides exactly how Bob of CA described it. I'll be laying down, walking, sitting down, anything. An this very sharp throbbing pain will come out of nowhere, an last for however long it will want to.

I have looked on multiple health sites an I have an appointment with a podiatrist in a few days. None of the stuff I have found online fit my exact symptoms. Yes there was the occasional "sharp pain" or something like that. But everything I looked up describe pain as long lasting or not going away.

This pain will go away for 5 seconds, 40 seconds, 5 minutes, 50 minutes, 4 hrs, all night, anything it wants to. It will come for a second, 3 seconds, 10 seconds, up to about 40 seconds has been my longest episode so far.

I have never experienced this kind of pain in that area in my life. It started happening about 2 weeks ago an I had just brushed it off. Like this isn't a problem, just a muscle being tired or something right? figured it'd go away after a day or so of rest.

If anyone has any information on what this could be or a way to relieve it, that would be phenomenal. This pain is debilitating, crippling. And sorry for the bad explanation of my symptoms, but the main post in this forum describes it word for word like I would. I read it an even thought "Did I type this?" Because he pulled every word an feeling from my mouth. If anyone has anything I can do to help these pains, even to just slightly relieve it, I would like to know. Thank you.
Jul 05, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Good to know I'm not alone
by: Tex

I am a 57 year old male these sharp pains in the top of my left foot started over 30 years ago I have gone as much as 5 years with no pain and then it strikes like lightening sharp pains that last 2 seconds to 2 minutes and from once a day to many times a day and this may go a few days to many weeks or months. It goes away as fast as it came. As I get older it's more frequent. I am 6'3" 240 lbs and the pain is so intense at times it will take me to my knees and bring tears to my eyes as fast as the pain comes it goes. I was asked during one episode if I had tourettes. The only relief that I have been able to find is before I go to bed I rub the top of my foot with a hot pain relief cream and then put on a sock. It gives me relief through the nite to be able to sleep without the pain. Good luck to all of ya.
Jun 21, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		reply to Marc
by: Peter UK

Many thanks to Marc for his interest.

Have been suffering with asthma for a very long time and it is being treated , when it flares up , with prednisolone in quite large doses which does the trick usually.

Will try and recall if this coincides with lapses in the pain.

Surely if the condition , which many seem to be suffering from , could be identified then specific and definitive treatment would follow ?
Jun 11, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		new development
by: Anonymous

Interesting that today I was able to bring on the foot pain while rolling my upper back on a hard foam roller (this releases pressure in my upper back). As a PTA/personal trainer, I am aware that the L5 dermatome maps out the exact point on my foot where I experience this excruciating pain. Up to now, I have not been able to bring on the pain on my own. I tried the foam roller again and again was able to bring on the pain. I did not bring the roller past the thoracic spine.

Needless to say, I will be checking in with my chiropractor this week. Three times the roller test brought on pain in my foot. Will report back....
Jun 11, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstar 		Sharp pain on top of foot
by: Edna Texas

I too have been experiencing the top of foot pain for the last couple of weeks. I am glad I am not the only one and that this site has saved me time from seeing a doctor for now. I am diabetic, overweight, over forty and spend half the time walking at work. I changed my diet months ago and really lowered my AIC to a 6.9, when it used to be in the 8's. Lost a few pounds too. So I am confused as to what could be causing the intense pain that wakes me up in the middle of the night and continues off and on for who know how long. I am too tired to check the time. I have never experienced this kind of pain before. The doctors check my feet every three months too. Anyways, I will try the soaking and rub my feet more often than I do now and hope that it works. I am trying to remember if the days I get the pains are the days I were the one pair of tight shoes. I will have to track this too. Thanks though for everyone's posts. They were informative.
Jun 09, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstar 		Sharp pain/right foot
by: Anonymous

Looks like I am not going crazy. I have been experiencing extreme sharp pain between the third/fourth metatarsals for a couple weeks now. This pain is just distal to the highest part of the arch, but deep in the foot. There is no pattern or reason to the pain. When it strikes, it is so painful, I let out a scream. It can last a second to as long as 20 seconds (feels like eternity).

Thought at first I may have a hairline fracture or need my foot adjusted by my chiro. I had a massage a couple weeks ago, and also wondered if a bone shifted.

I am going to try Bromelain (worked magic on joint pain in my hand from an injury). Will report back if I get great results.

I eat clean, take quality supplements, exercise, no vices to speak of, so am stumped where this came from.
Jun 06, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		GOOD TO KNOW I AM NOT ALONE
by: Peter UK

Thank you for having this forum available. I am a UK resident (Wales actually) and am suffering with this awful intermittent debilitating affliction. Have had this for 30 years and it is still as painful as ever.
The pain in the middle of my right foot comes out of nowhere and reduces me to tears and the fear of it coming back at the same intensity.
Have had,over the years, MRI scans, tests, neurologists, podiatrists, faith healers, diet experts all scratching their heads.
The pain is horrible and overtakes every second of your day and night anticipating it striking again.
Nothing and no-one seems to have a solution.
It is comforting to know that I am not the only one suffering such pain.
Take large doses of Gabapentin with Tramadol and Nortriptyline when it is at its worst but believe this pain can surmount any amount of medication.
Cannot identify any foods or drinks that cause it. Have broken into tears in front of people when it strikes and live in fear when it is performing.
True to say it has ruined my life (I am 66 now).
Please, please, please dear American friends
let me know if you find a cure to stop this horrible affliction.
Mine is middle of right foot always the same place.
Neurologists have said try cortisone and podiatrists have said certainly do NOT use cortisone. No-one seems able to help and I am desperate (have even considered suicide at bad times).
Please fellow sufferers stay in touch with this website and keep contributing any advice.

Hi Peter,

I am a podiatrist and assuming there are no contraindications you should certainly consider cortisone, either an injection or oral prednisone to see if it helps.
If you are in as much pain as you say, then what have you got to lose?

Marc Mitnick DPM
Apr 14, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sharp stabbing pain, top right of left foot
by: Anonymous

I too have been having the same kind of pain in my left foot, keeps me awake almost the whole night.

I find it hard to believe that with so many people having the same sort of pain, no doctor has been able to diagnose what the cause and cure is for this.

Apr 02, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		Left foot lightning pain!
by: Andrew - Dallas, TX

You know why I am here, and I know why you all are here, it's because we share the same ailment! At 5:30 am today, I was awakened again by another round of "left foot lightning stab!" Got some of the conditions that lead me to believe some of mine results from being a type one diabetic for 30 years, as there is nerve damage and a good deal of sensation loss in my lower left leg, foot and toes.... BUT, not when this demon strikes! I feel every bit of sensation, but I actually have some concrete cause and effect, that I would like you to consider. I have noticed, that whenever I eat certain foods, this pain will lash out at me later in the middle of the night - usually from 1:00 - 5:00 AM, and after eating Special K with Strawberries, or any chocolate, more than just a bite or two. There is a correlation, as Hershey's, and Dove chocolate especially, will bring on the torment with some ingredient. When I stopped the Special K, chocolate, and certain cookies,the pain does NOT happen. BUT, late last night I had a bowl of SK, w/strawberries and wham, the needle stab began about 3 hours later. Right now, I will check the ingredients in both the SK and the chocolate.

Here's the best part, I HAVE A PROVEN REMEDY - FOR ME! I drink 2-3 pints of filtered water, washing down 1-2 Super Vitamin B complex, an E and an aspirin or two. Please try this and be patient - I am led to believe it also is dehydration, to some extent, and additional water seems to dilute the pain and help me get deliverance. Relief will come anywhere from 2-6 hours later! God help us and bless us all!!!
Mar 10, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		Years of abuse ...
by: Sirrunalot

I have the same pain all of you have described. Right foot only. I have been playing drums for years. I have been a runner for years. I play ice hockey weekly. And I have a part time job that believe it or not overworks my right foot (while standing) as I tap a pedal. Simple but awkward.

The stabbing pain comes on without warning. It is excruciating. Lasts anywhere from 5 seconds to what seems like an eternity. Always at rest.

Anywho. I do not lace my shoes. So overly tight shoes is not it. I am not overweight. I am not diabetic.

I've chalked it up to overuse. Or repetitive stress. Think about the things you do. Most issues can be traced to lifestyle. The best advice I can give: Rest your body a while if you can. I know it's easier said than done. But with time the body will heal itself.
Feb 22, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		piercing pain on top of right foot
by: Debbie

last night I awoke to a piercing pain on top of my right foot. i got up and walked to other side of house and put salonpas patched on it. i sometimes get pains like that on my shins. was in a recliner tonight and sams sharp piercing pain on top of right foot. this pain reminds me of pain i experienced during chemo almost five years ago. it felt like someone took a paint roller without the pad, just the metal, and rolled it up and down my shins. the oncologist told me it was the nerves being damaged and destroyed by the chemo. i was told it may continue for years. i think for me something in my diet may have triggered it again now. i have to get back to more natural diet with no fast foods.
Jan 13, 2014
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starstarstarstarstar 		stabbing pain in top of left foot at night
by: Anonymous

I have the same symptoms - stabbing pain on top of left foot while in bed at night - lasts all night and nothing helps. I'll got see a podiatrists as someone may have figured it out by now. I have 3 compressed disks in the lumbar.
Jan 06, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		No more pain I know how!
by: David

Ok your going to think im nuts but it stopped my pain.
So you might want to give it a try. And I'm really happy!
You really have nothing to loose.
Brush your teeth! Seems like the wrong end right!
I went to a dentist he said use these little brushes between your teeth. Including the back of the back tooth. Find at walmart. All sizes.
Never told him about the pain I experienced at night with stabbing small pains in the top of my foot.
He also told me to use what he called medi rinse.
He told me I could make my own for less money.
Which I did!
One half teaspoon of Bleach mixed in 8 ounces water.
Not the fragrence bleach just regular. I use publix.
If it bothers you use a little less bleach. Rinse till gone.
Bet you don't get top of foot pains any more:) good luck and pleasant slumber. Takes about a week to notice. But keep using the system. Oh makes your teeth look and feel good too!
Nov 26, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Shooting pain in left foot on top
by: Anonymous

I too have had this episode happen for the last few weeks. I went to see a foot specialist and he was stumped. He prescribed me a medication which makes me high as a kite and does nothing for the pain so I stopped taking it. I sit for very long hours at work and he seems to think it is the cause. He pushed on a nerve in my knee and it hurt like hell....needless to say his conclusion is an inflamed nerve in my leg right behind my knee. I also noticed if I sit with my legs under me it happens more frequently. Solution is to sit with your legs stretched out or at a 90 degree angle. It hasn't been as bad since I changed the way I sit. Hopefully it will go away.
Sep 24, 2013
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starstarstarstarstar 		terrible
by: Anonymous

The stabbing I have is in my right foot but when it happens its so painful and intense it makes you want to cry. I was going to call my doctor and make an appt but after reading how common this seems I'm just going to call it nerve damage and hope it goes away. I have done a lot of research on the internet and I have read that wearing tight or shoes that may be too small can cause this kind of nerve damage. I was always one who was embarrassed about having to wear a larger shoe than my friends so I would try and squeeze in a smaller size, had I known this would be the result when I was a teenager I would have worn the larger size,,,,another cause I read could be diabetes but most that have diabetes already know that,I wish there was a medication for this, on there bright side the stabbing pain only lasts for seconds and then its totally gone.
Sep 24, 2013
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starstarstarstar 		Needle sharp pain
by: Maggie

It is some comfort to read that others experience similar foot pain but am not encouraged about options for treatment or cure. My pain is on top of my foot over third and fourth toes. It began intermittently and is now more steady in a mild tingly form. When it strikes without warning, I can't help but scream. It is that intense. Can't think of anything that triggered it. Am 65 and healthy and walk every day. Not sure if I should rest it as the worst pain always strikes when it is at rest. The only relief for me is to stand on it. Massage doesn't always help. I too went to a well known chiropractor and he made an adjustment and applied back therapy. His explanation makes sense to me but not much relief. I know my foot doctor will suggest a shot but view that as just a short term solution. Am concerned that the condition is worsening. What to do?
Aug 21, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Nerve Damage
by: Tracy

I've been having the same pain. I have described it as reminding me of an EMG where the needle is put into a muscle with light electric shock. If any of you have had that you know what I mean. BUT this pain is far more intense. Mine comes on a few times a year and lasts up to 24 hours. I've noticed no pattern as it varies from foot and location on top of foot.

I am a long time diabetic and thought it was just part of my neuropathy. My endocrinologist stated it was not. He said it is due to nerve damage and he could send me to an podiatrist. He stated that they would most likely not be able to do a whole lot for it. He said he knew that they can inject the site, but since the site varies every time the pain comes on, that might help and the other thing would be surgery on the damaged nerves and that, once again, wouldn't solve the entire problem as it happens at different spots on the top of my foot. So...he said unless it becomes constent there wasn't much that could be done.

I am sure this will help no one...it didn't help me! All it did was tell me I have nerve damage and not much can be done! I have used Lyrica for neuropathy pain in the past that did nothing to help but I see where it helps fibromyalgia pain and I'm curious if that might help!?

If anyone gets a definite answer for help with this problem I would certainly like to see it and get this issue resolved once and for all!

Tracy

Hi Tracy,

It sounds like you have an irritation of one of the superficial nerves that passes down the top of the foot. In general the nerve gets caught between the bone of your foot and shoe, thus becoming irritated.
This has nothing to do with your diabetes and is more a mechanical irritation of the nerve.
Although your endocrinologist is somewhat correct in that there is very little you can do about it, certainly trying a cortisone shot or two would have little down side and perhaps a huge upside if it helps.
If you decide to go for a cortisone injection, wait till you have symptoms, then mark the exact spot with a magic marker, just in case you are no longer having symptoms by the time you get to the doctors office.
Also be aware of any shoes that may be setting this off as it is usually a shoe that causes this. If you can identify a certain pair of shoes, obviously, avoid wearing them.

Marc Mitnick DPM
Aug 17, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Uric Acid (gout) or inter metatarsal bursitis?
by: Anonymous

Exact same pain in left foot, sharp stabbing between big toe and next one, on top of the foot. WOKE ME UP ALL NIGHT, NO SLEEP! I DID use my new inversion table yesterday a few times, which requires tennis shoes, and the top of the feet actually hold the body weight when upside down, so this could be the explanation. I did it once without the shoes, then twice with the shoes. I have every intention of keeping up the inversion table, so hopefully if I pad the top of my feet, I can avoid more top foot stabbing, IF this is the culprit.

I'm 66, but I live life like 45, no extra weight, average exercise (travel a lot, so walk a lot during those months), basically very active one way or another. Female. I DO have extreme degenerative disc and arthritis problems beginning in the hands. I have had uric acid problems before in the same big toe which I corrected with concentrated cherry juice which I keep on hand. I tried it in the middle of the night for this, to no avail. Still it could be related to gout (pain in big toe). The other possibility is the inter metatarsal bursitis which is related to arthritis, which has much to do about dehydration, which I suffer from constantly. When I press on that place where the screaming pain comes from it IS sore, but it could be sore from so much nerve screaming pain in that spot, or it could be sore from arthritis setting in. So, I'm going to give a shot to the stuff I use for arthritis and bone/joint problems, since I've been bad about it lately. I use Zyflamend for inflammation which is life saving, and Glucosamine/Chondrotin for food for discs, joint, bones (1500/1200mg respectively), anything less is pointless. The GC actually reversed my initial disc shrinkage, but the liquid works best, but tastes awful and I get out of the habit when I travel. I'm going to drink a lot of the cherry juice today with my GC as it does take time for that to stop the gout big toe pain, but that does work for that. I will also try the other suggestion on this blog, the 3/4 teaspoon olive oil to 8-10 drops oregano oil as a rub (I've heard oregano oil does wonders). Sinus Tarsi Syndrome (listed on here) doesn't seem to fit the STABBING ON TOP OF FOOT symptom. Gotta try it all! I have horrible insomnia as it is, so I cannot afford ONE MORE PAIN to prevent me from the little sleep I get anyway! Geeezzzz!

PS Thank you for this blog. I'm sad for everyone, but glad to find a resource!
Aug 15, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Ooo mmm gggg the worst pain in my left foot and left leg :(((
by: Samantha

Yesterday morning I started with pain in my left buttocks and down my leg sciatica !! Then over the day it travelled through to my foot and now I'm in the worst pain ever foot slightly swollen increasingly bad shooting pains mainly from joints or top of foot the pains are so bad pain killers arnt working I think chopping my own leg off wouldn't feel this bad :(((((
Aug 08, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Similar problem.
by: Anonymous

I'm 73, female, and today began getting those ice-pick like pains in the top of my right foot, and the inner fleshy part of my right knee simultaneously. It doesn't matter what I'm doing, sitting or standing. I have been dieting and rather successfully, I might add. Saw a physical therapist today for other reasons not related. The pains started a few hours after my appointment ended. I have never experienced anything like this before.
Jun 23, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		New development
by: Anonymous

Since I last had the stabbing pain (it was very recent) there has been a new development. Instead of the terrible stabbing pain, there was a slight feeling of itchiness. By the next morning a large red patch had appeared where the stabbing pain had been. Over a few days the red patch became some sort of boil, which eventually popped and then a lot of pus and blood came out. My whole foot started to swell and the pain went up towards my knee, keeping me awake at night. I visited the Doc who said it was an infected insect bite. It is true I had been putting compost on the vegetable patch and there are a lot of insects in that area of the garden. Anyway, three weeks later and after three courses of Augmentin, which is Amoxivillin + Clav. Acid, there has been an improvement. A small scab has formed and the swelling has gone down. However, the area is still very painful. I wonder how long it will take to heal...
Jun 23, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Stabbing pain in top of foot
by: Lammie ( South Africa )

I allso experience this pain when lying down, and the pain is so severe that I feel like crying.Cannot, as I am a ' macho " male , 68 years old !But it really hurts and ny doctor and even the orthopedist cannot offer any rationable explanation.I had a trombosisis a few years ago and it has been suggested that some small bloodclots may not have been completely dissolved.These may then be stuck momentarily in the small veins on top of my foot.Any opinion on this.?It would certainly explain the instantanous pain and the quick dissipation thereoff
May 27, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Same pain again - absolutely excruciating
by: Celia

My brother has this pain too and says this is mid-foot gout. What do you all think?
I am so fed up with having this terrible pain on the instep of my left foot coming on without warning in the dead of night. I thought gout only affected joints. Maybe my brother is wrong!
May 25, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Same pain
by: Biff

The only difference is that (since they put a new stent in me) my faction times of my heart pumping blood has permanently and greatly slowed down (20-25), normal is 55%.
CAN ANYONE TELL ME WHERE i CAN GET SOME RELIEF FROM THIS SHOOTING PAIN IN MY FOOT?
Thanks,
Biff
Apr 28, 2013
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		same pain
by: Ange

These lightning pains started in the middle of the night 3 weeks ago. They were growing closer together and more frequent until I saw a chiropractor yesterday morning he diagnosed me with a bulging disc in my lower back and sent me for an MRI that says I have two. THe chiropractor did the ultrasound wond on my lower back and the pads that use electricity (sry don't know what it is called) anyway it seemed to really help only had a few episodes for the rest of the day. However this morning I had an episode that lasted twice as long and was twice as intense went back for another treatment and felt better this afternoon but was woken up with the same horrible intensity in the middle of the night. He insist that this is what it is and that it has nothing to do with my sinus tarsi UGH i'm in so much pain :(
Mar 25, 2013
Rating
starstarstar 		OOWWW!
by: Jim from Jersey

I notice most people here have problems with their left foot, mine is the right.Same pain that everyone here reports, i.e.ice pick or nail driven into the top of the foot. I was wakened from a sound sleep thinking someone stabbed me The pain gets to the point where I grab my foot trying to massage the pain from the foot, to no avail.

I suffer from Neuropathy, side effects from Chemo so I'm thinking it could be the cause. If I find out something different, I'll come back and post my findings.
Dec 02, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		pain is getting worse
by: jgobucks

I have had this pain periodically for years. It used to hurt only if i was sitting with my knees fully flexed with my feet under me. The pain to get my foot from super pointed down to a normal position was horrible, then all gone. Now it is more frequent, worse sitting or lying with my foot dangling. It's my left foot on top, closer to the medial (right) side. I haven't driven a stick shift in years. Sometimes a bone seems to be sticking up from the arch, and there is nerve-type pain to touch it. When i drive, the pain is excruciating to put my foot on the ground and the 1st few steps are awful. No one seems to understand so I'm glad I found you all!
Nov 25, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		SEVERE PAIN IN MY LEFT FOOT
by: Anonymous

I'M A SHORT OBESE FEMALE, DIABETIC, HYPERTENSIVE. I AM A LPN. HAD SEVERE BACK PROBLEMS. DOCTOR WOULD NOT GIVE ME PAIN MEDS, OR X-RAY MY BACK. I THINK I HAVE A PINCHED NERVE, MOST OF THE TIME DOWN THE BACK OF MY LEFT THIGH AND THE SIDE OF MY LEFT FOOT AND MY LEFT PINKIE TOE HAS DEAD FEELING, THE SKIN IS HARD. WHEN THESE PAINFUL EPISODES HAPPEN I CAN FEEL BLOOD FLOW IN THESE AREAS. MY LEFT FOOT AND BACK OF LEFT THIGH HAVE A DIFFERENT FEELING. THE PAIN STARTED AGAIN THE DAY BEFORE THANKSGIVING INSTEAD OF GOING AWAY HAS INCREASED: IN BED ASLEEP, WAKING ME UP; IM SCREAMING OUT, ON THE BUS LOW MOANING; BRACING MYSELF. WHEN IM LAYING IN BED IT IS THE WORST. USUALLY IT STARTS IN THE PINKIE TOE MOVES DOWN UNDER THE PINKIE TOE, GOES TO INSTEP,AND MOVES AROUND TO SIDE OF MY LEFT FOOT THE PAIN IN ONGOING ONLY LASTING SECONDS. IM SURPRISED THERE ARE SO MANY PEOPLE THAT HAVE THIS PROBLEM.
Oct 16, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Nerve Damage
by: Anonymous

I've been a type one diabetic for 45 years. The pain I describe as someone spinning a sharpened pencil straight down on my instep of the left foot is very close to what most of you have indicated. I supposed it was Diabetic Neuropathy that I was dealing with, damaged nerves. My pain usually lasts less than a couple of hours with that painful cycle repeating time after time with those little teasers of no pain in between then suddenly, wham! sharp, sudden pain that takes your breath away, same spot, same exact feel. After awhile, that single nerve cluster seems to get more sensitive. It does deprive you of sleep, that's for sure. Nerve damage is hell as there is nothing that can be done. The nerve cluster causing all the problems is...damaged. I wish it could be removed.
Sep 15, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		anyone a drinker
by: Anonymous

started today. very painfull. why the left foot? going to stop drinking and see what happens.
Sep 08, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Stabbing Pain, Some Relieaf
by: Herman

Found this site after experiencing the Stabbing Pain Top Center of my Left Foot. It appears to be just below the skin, with the skin highly sensitive to the touch.

I am 72, 5' 10", 200 pounds with an athletic build, walk two miles 5 times per week & exercise regularly, drove manual transmission cars for years, but have had automatics for the past ten years.

In my review, my pain appeared after spending a day helping a friend, at his house, in a pair of tennis shoes that seemed to rub on the top of my left foot. At home, I would have switched to a better fitting shoe, but was away. At home, I got out of the shoes feeling the top of my left foot being sensitive. Before I went to bed the Sharp Pains Appeared.

This is the first time I have experienced this pain & it is very severe, preventing me from sleeping last night; I progressively put skin lotion, first aid ointment, cortisone cream on the top of my foot with little result. About 4 pm, with little sleep, I brought out the Big Gun.

Big Gun being the best pain killer I have ever come across, that being 100% Pure Oregano Oil, diluted as follows: 3/4 teaspoon olive oil & 8 to 10 drops of 100% Pure Oregano Oil (mix in a small dipping cup with the end of a spoon), apply to the pain area with your finger, pain will go away nearly instantly, but will likely return & require several applications. With three applications to my foot, I finally fell asleep.

I first found the Big Gun when I had a very similar pain in my top left shoulder, some three years ago. This pain came & went for several weeks, with the Big Gun providing relief. Pain eventually went away on it's own & has not ever come back, 1/2 bottle Oregano Oil left from three years ago.

Tip, you can pay $50 for a 1 oz bottle from the big health food stores, But only $15 Webb ~ www.herbalcom.com, lasts a long time, dispenses by the drop. Also note, you will smell like Oregano, once you apply it, not good for most work environments.

Now my top of foot pain, has minimized a day later, but is still there at low level. Please post your solutions, as it is a very nasty pain.

Looking for answers, thanks for posting your experiences.
Jul 22, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Interfering Pain
by: Anonymous

All of a sudden, I had a terrible, sharp pain on the top, left side of my left foot. It remained as a dull ache with shooting pains if I moved it. It feels like I had dropped a can or something on the top of my foot and something is broken. It hurts to move or walk on. I drive an automatic and I am right handed. I am wondering if the old pair of sandals that I started wearing a few hours a day, walking in stores has caused this. The sandals are old, but I only wore them once in a blue moon as they dig into the toenail area. The heals, therefore, are not worn down. Another pair of sandals (with thick rubber soles)that I had been wearing were hurting my feet and giving me leg cramps so I stopped wearing them...now this????? Any co-relation do you think?

RESPONSE

Certainly a pair of sandals that do not adequately support your feet could be the source of your pain,(midtarsal fault, read about it to the left) so the simple solution would be to stop wearing them, purchase a shoe or sandal that adequately supports your feet and see what happens.
If the supportive pair of shoes/sandals does not alleviate your pain then you will have to look for a problem directly within the foot.
One caveat; if you try this little experiment, you have to wear the shoes all day long. Most of us have a tendency to walk around the house without shoe and that can be just as bad as wearing broken down sandals.

Marc Mitnick DPM
DISCLAIMER

May 23, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		could it be prunes?
by: Bob F.

Since starting this thread some 3 years ago this problem has continued to come and go. I will go many months without a flair up only to be blind sided again by this sudden pain.

But, most recently I changed jobs and noticed something. As we go through life different foods come and go. And I stumble across an old favorite dried prunes. Odd, I know but I have a point. There was a large box in the break-room as a healthy snack ... sweet, high fiber, low fat, etc. So I helped myself to a few. Next day a few more and that night the stabbing pain was back.

What was different I thought? the prunes/ ... really? So I experimented and laid off for 2 weeks and the pain went away. Then a few on day 1 and a few more on day 2 and wham ... the pain was back with in 12 hours. So I laid off for 2 weeks and the repeated with the same results.

Now it may not be the prunes - it might be the potassium sorbate they use in packaging as a preservative but it's something to look at.

Any thoughts from our experts?


Cause and effect, or just coincidence? There are certainly foods (and additives) that will cause inflammation in the body just like there are foods that will reduce inflammation.
Although I cannot say with any certainty whether the prunes are the culprit, I will say this: if prunes do have the propensity to cause inflammation in the body, I would think you might be having pains elsewhere as well. Secondly, most musculo-skeletal pain in the feet without a history of trauma, are biomechanically induced, meaning they are either the result of the way a person walks, or the types of shoes a person wears or the types of surfaces a person routinely walks on.
So...unfortunately I do not have an answer but your post is certainly "food" for thought. Perhaps some one else has some insights.

Marc Mitnick DPM
May 22, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I have had this for over 10 years......
by: Jane

There does not seem to be any reason why all of a sudden it will come back and attack.

Sometimes it lasts for 24 hrs. Then it goes and doesn't rear it's ugly head until I am least expecting it.

I am certain that I have something floating in my foot and sometimes it gets near to a nerve and gives me horrendous pain until it floats away.

There is one common denominator though. It always happens when I have been knelt or sat in the garden doing some weeding. 9 times out of 10 I can do this leisurely task without any ill effect.
Apr 17, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		medical mystery
by: Anonymous

I'm a 21 year old fit female right handed and experiencing the same shooting excruciating pain in the top of the right side of my left foot near the ankle. Based on the comments below, there doesn't seem to be any correlation between gender/age/physical shape to this weird phenomenon. If anyone figures this out I'm sure we'd all appreciate an explanation.
Apr 03, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		same
by: Bruce

Same left foot pain, near ankle,slightly outside. Pinched my psyatic nerve 2 years ago. Left handed, auto-transmission. pain every few days , then multiple times tonight.
Mar 31, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Possible reason for this excruciating pain
by: Celia

I posted my comment onto this site last year after experiencing the worst imaginable pain on top of my left foot, which kept me awake for one entire night amd half the next night. The pain came every few minutes with such intensity that at one point I screamed. I took several painkillers but they made no difference. On thinking back to what happened the day before the pain first started, I had been invited to a function and had stood around talking to people for 2 or 3 hours without sitting down. I was wearing a pair of comfortable bt very high-heeled shoes that I had not worn for over ten years due to lifestyle changes (i.e. not working in an office any more and not needing to wear smart high heeled shoes very often). These heels obviously put an unaccustomed strain on my foot and maybe that somehow caused the nerves to get inflamed or the tissues around the nerves to get inflamed. What do other women sufferers think of this? Or what do other male sufferers think of this - perhaps men who suddenly have to drive a manual car after being used to an automatic? Comments please!
Mar 31, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Same pain and how my pain is triggered
by: Living with it

I've had this pain for several months. Until last night I've nailed it down to 2 specific motions that cause the pain - sharply extending or flexing the foot. Either of these 2 motions will cause the pain but the pain doesn't start for several seconds to a minute after I've done the motion. That's what threw me off for a while. As long as I was aware not to move my foot like that I was pain free. I have a recliner and I noticed the pain was triggered when my foot was hanging off the recliner in an extended position. The pain was triggered again when I woke up in the morning and streteched and I naturally flex my feet which triggered the pain.

But last night in the early morning hours I started getting the pain every few minutes. It was like someone jabbing a needle into my foot and then withdrawing it quickly. It kept yanking me out of my sleep no matter what position I slept in.

Hopefully someone will figure it out.
Mar 31, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Same pain and how my pain is triggered
by: Living with it

I've had this pain for several months. Until last night I've nailed it down to 2 specific motions that cause the pain - sharply extending or flexing the foot. Either of these 2 motions will cause the pain but the pain doesn't start for several seconds to a minute after I've done the motion. That's what threw me off for a while. As long as I was aware not to move my foot like that I was pain free. I have a recliner and I noticed the pain was triggered when my foot was hanging off the recliner in an extended position. The pain was triggered again when I woke up in the morning and streteched and I naturally flex my feet which triggered the pain.

But last night in the early morning hours I started getting the pain every few minutes. It was like someone jabbing a needle into my foot and then withdrawing it quickly. It kept yanking me out of my sleep no matter what position I slept in.

Hopefully someone will figure it out.
Mar 31, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sharp stabbing voodoo doll like pain on top of right foot where the foot meets the ankle
by: Living with it

I've had this pain for several months. Until last night I've nailed it down to 2 specific motions that cause the pain - sharply extending or flexing the foot. Either of these 2 motions will cause the pain but the pain doesn't start for several seconds to a minute after I've done the motion. That's what threw me off for a while. As long as I was aware not to move my foot like that I was pain free. I have a recliner and I noticed the pain was triggered when my foot was hanging off the recliner in an extended position. The pain was triggered again when I woke up in the morning and streteched and I naturally flex my feet which triggered the pain.

But last night in the early morning hours I started getting the pain every few minutes. It was like someone jabbing a needle into my foot and then withdrawing it quickly. It kept yanking me out of my sleep no matter what position I slept in. Hopefully it is temporary. Hopefully someone will figure it out.
Mar 30, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		i;m so glad-sorry,i;m not alone
by: rachel

as everybody else i too have this amazing stabbing,shooting pain on my right foot,its been going on for a few months now,i,ve tried everything you can imagine.
i,ve even purchased 4 new pairs of shoes,boots and crocs over the past 6 months .i wondered if it was because i;m on my feet all day ,walking on a concrete floor.a ligament can also be felt getting tight at the heel.
does anyone else have a lump on the top of there foot???

while waiting to go back to the hospital my breakfast consists of codiene and cornflakes !!!

does any one have any ideas of the reasons y and can any thing be done.
fingers crossed .x
Feb 28, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		So sleepy
by: chris

was woken up at 5 am with sharp stabbing pain on the top of my left foot, tried a analgesic rub, no avail, heat then ice and as a last resort a pain pill, nothing worked. Called my foot and ankle dr. he never returned the call, so assuming this isn't life threatening. Pain has persisted all day it is now 9 pm and am dreading not being able to sleep tonight.It seemed to be less painfulif i stay busy and on my feet. Help !!!!
Feb 03, 2012
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Dreadful stabbing pain on side of left foot
by: Anonymous

I am a 69 year old female in good health. The night before last night I was woken up about half an hour after I had fallen asleep in bed but the most awful, intense intermittent stabbing pains om the side of my left foot near the ankle and instep. Each pain lasted about 5 seconds. It stopped for about 30 seconds and then started again. It went on throughout the night and I got no sleep at all. The pain was the most excruciating pain I have ever felt and I have never had this before. The pain did not go until lunchtime the next day. I am frightened this pain might come again. I took 2 lots of painkillers in the night when this was happening, but the pain was so bad the tablets made no difference.
Dec 15, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Why hasn't anyone figured this out yet????
by: Phil

The only thing worse than this pain is going repeatedly going to different Doctors and having them say that nothing appears to be wrong! I even go to the Doctor with all the comments from this website printed up to show them. The podiatrist doesn't hardly pay it any attention. This is after waiting a month to see him.
I've been suffering from this for about 4 or five months now. My pain is located right behind and between my smallest toe and one next to it. After that, my symptoms are the same as most everyone else's. Especially in the way it comes in waves. The pain is so severe as to be indescribable. That's what I use these pages for, to try to describe to a doctor what it is like. I've had and an MRI and of course everything appears fine.

This topic has been going on in this website for over 2 years and no one has been fixed yet??

Will someone PLEASE post something here that answers questions?

-Phil

Hi Phil,
One point worth mentioning is that many times with this type of pain an MRI will come back negative. Over the years I have removed neuromas even in patients who had negative MRI's.
The two most common causes of the type of pain you are experiencing in that particular part of the foot would be a neuroma and an intermetatarsal bursitis.
Both of these can give you severe pain at any time and at other times not bother you at all.
You mention you have been to a couple of doctors but do not mention if you have had any treatment.
You really need to find someone who can "think outside the box" and treat you based on your symptoms rather than a normal MRI.

Marc Mitnick DPM
Dec 08, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Same pain but big toe and top of foot
by: Anonymous

This has been going on with me for quite some time now, probably a year. Mine started with this sudden sharp pain in my big toe, at the side edge of the nail. I feared an ingrown toenail. It is not that. This intermittent pain continues and now shoots up the top of my foot, staying in line with the big toe. It happens when I am off my feet usually. I notice also that sometimes now I feel it in my second toe. I am worried it will continue to increase. I mentioned to my Dr and she just said hmmm and looked at it. I have Fibromyalgia, so strange pain is on the laundry list of problems when I go to the Dr and this one got swept under the rug. Its embarrassing, I will yell out sometimes and fear this happening in public!! Any ideas?? I cannot afford a podiatrist unless it would be no choice etc.
Nov 01, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Surprised to read so many others have this too
by: Anonymous

Mine started just yesterday. Exactly the same kind of pain all of you are describing - a sharp pain on the top of my left foot,about where the foot and ankle bones meet. Excruciating pain like I've never felt before that lasts about 3 seconds. Mine seems to occur more often than the rest of you report - just when I'm sitting down or even lying in bed. I don't drive (ride motorcycle taxis since I live in Phnom Penh) and while I'm usually quite active I haven't been for the past month or so due to work obligations. But I sure wish I knew what this was caused by! Very strange and painful. Certainly hope it doesn't last.
Oct 20, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		The Same
by: Anonymous

I'm 26 and in very good health. I work out 5 days a week, including running. Recently, I have started to commute to a new job in my manual car. One morning, out of the blue, I experienced a very sharp stabbing pain right in the middle of my left foot. It has persisted ever since. It too comes and goes. It seems to really be active while I am driving, but even hurts while laying in bed, walking, or running. Strange that it seems to be affecting a lot of folks who have a manual car. Its really beginning to concern me, especially since its happening while I'm still young.
Oct 11, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		A pattern is emerging
by: Jon

The previous poster plays the cello - I play the guitar. We can call it stringed intrumentitis.

Seriously this is enough pain to make me yell out and I've broken bones before without a whimper. As someone said above it's like someone hammering a nail through the top of your foot - in my case just where the foot joins the ankle - more or less dead centre.

I'm 54, fit, not overweight, good diet except a bit too much alcohol. I drive a manual car using my left foot on the clutch and the pain is in my left foot. I think it started after I started running for exercise but I haven't run for some time and just recently it's back with a vengeance. Today I was driving and I had to just grab my foot to try to stop it. Fortunately I was just coasting...

The only other thing that strikes me is that I'm too tall for my bed and sometimes I wake with my foot stretched over the bottom of the bed in a unnatural position - pulled really far back. Which reminds me that some time ago I had a massage and the masseur pulled the same foot back so far that there was a lump there next morning. There was no pain then though and it was some years ago but it was in the same place.

Someone please figure it out. It really hurts. No point in meds because it's so random - I've had it today and yesterday but not for a month or maybe 2.
Sep 12, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Treatment of Sinus Tarsi Syndrome
by: Paul

Treatment of Sinus Tarsi Syndrome

Treatment of sinus tarsi syndrome begins with identification of the activity that may be contributing to subtalar joint injury. Rest and bracing of the subtalar joint, using an ankle brace is helpful. Orthotics do help to limit the range of motion of the subtalar joint.

It's important to recognize that most cases of sinus tarsi syndrome are due to mechanical load applied to the subtalar joint. Therefore, the most important aspect of caring for sinus tarsi syndrome is identifying and eliminating pathological loads applied to the subtalar joint. Inflammation within the sinus tarsi can be controlled with injectable cortisone. If cortisone and bracing prove ineffective, ablation (destruction) of the nerve can be accomplished by chemical or thermal means. Chemical ablation is performed using serial injections of 4% alcohol. Relief with chemical ablation is achieved after 4-6 injections. Thermal ablation involves the use of a thermal ablation unit that freezes the nerve of the sinus tarsi.

Surgical treatment of sinus tarsitis focuses on the removal of the soft tissue contents of the sinus tarsi. The soft tissue plug found in the sinus tarsi is called Hoke's tonsil. Removal of Hoke's tonsil acts to denervate the sinus tarsi. Denervation of the sinus tarsi does not correct the mechanical problems of the subtalar joint, but denervation removes the local sensory feedback from the sinus tarsi. Therefore, removal of Hoke's tonsile is simply used to eliminate the pain associate with sinus tarsi syndrome.
Hope this helps

Regards Paul
Sep 10, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I suffer terribly from this too...
by: Anonymous

My podiatrist said, "Ah.... sinus tarsi syndrome." Apparently we have a tendon that is aggravated. Mine comes to me after I've been on my feet alot. But it doesn't come while I'm walking or standing. It comes and stays unbearably, stabbing and stabbing intermittently, when I finally sit down to rest. I frequently get up and walk around because although it hurts, it hurts less walking than it does sitting. Mine has followed a horrible ankle rolling sprain several years ago. A cortisone shot brings great relief almost immediately but it sure doesn't last long. It's a real pain - no pun intended!
Sep 07, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Stabbing Pain
by: Paul

I too have a stabbing pain on the top of my left foot. I do drive a manual car and it has affected me while pressing in the clutch. It seems to happen mostly when I walk. All of a sudden the joint doesn't want to go any further because of the sharp pain.
I am 53 and fit but about 2 months ago I decided to take up playing soccer. Whilst at the park I kicked the ball with my left foot and felt a sharp pain, it has been playing up every now and then since that time at the park.
I don't have a broken foot I run for 5 Klms with ease. this generally only happens when I walk and least expect it.
I found a hot pack does help. It does relieve the pain and loosens up the joint.
I hope this helps.
Regards Paul
Aug 16, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		foot top pain and now side of ankle
by: Anonymous D

I have had this pain for a long time off and on but never more than two nights in a row. Usually several months apart. It was always on top of right foot and now sometimes is just on the outside R. ankle bone. I am 67, female and have small bones, have tried every conceivable remedy, cold pressure seems the best but comes back soon after lying down. Does not bother in waking hours and movement in walking. Had x-rays done, some bone loss, will see bone specialist soon. Maybe all this foot pain is from tiny foot bones weakening and pressing on a nerve ???? but why such periods of no pain sessions
Aug 15, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Mine's just started
by: Ozzie

Last night out driving I suddenly experienced an intense jabbing pain on top of my left foot, lasting only a few seconds. It happened once more about half an hour later 9/10 on pain scale. Then nothing until tonight while I was standing up, when it happened again.

I'm 62, fit and active, right handed, drive a manual car, live in Australia, so this thing knows no borders. I've read all the other posts, and they describe it exactly. I just hope it doesn't persist, as it instantly disrupts whatever you are doing, and you can't help letting out an "ouch"!
Aug 10, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Ibuprofen ?
by: Anonymous

I have noticed an increase in this "bolt of lightning" pain in the top of the foot. (NOT joint pain) when I am taking ibuprofen. Anyone else take ibuprofen and has this intermittant pain ?
Aug 09, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Similar Foot Pain
by: Hank... Owwwww!

Mine started yesterday with an overwhelming and unexpected pain that will send you to the moon quickly. It lasted for a few seconds and was gone. I notice that just seconds before the pain of my life, I felt as if a nerve or something was twiching a bit then wham! This is on the right side of my left foot at the top.

It has happened several times since yesterday and seems to be getting more frequent. I am kinda getting scared. I dont want this to be a permanent situation. Doesn't feel like bone or muscle and has to be a disturbed nerve.

Are there other symptoms elsewhere that could be part of the same issue. I have also had optic migranes in the past that I attributed to nerve stuff... Anyone else?

Pain meds dont work either....
Aug 01, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		me too
by: Tricia

Mine started two weeks ago. The pain actually woke me up. It started at the top of my right foot just behind the pinky toe. I've been having sharp shooting pain every since it started. The pain is very random and just sorta comes and goes. It may last or a few seconds up to a minute or so. It is very annoying but I'm glad to know that I'm not the only one dealing with this. Just wish someone could say what is causing it.
Jul 16, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Sharp Pain under 5th metatarsal
by: Al

I am a 41 yr old male, in good physical condition.

A week or two ago, I started experiencing sudden, acute pain under the right foot, in the middle of the 5th metatarsal, well away from any joint. The pain lasts approx 20 seconds total: it starts suddenly at a 5 on a scale of 10, peaks to an 8 out of 10, and disappears gradually over the last 5-10 seconds. It completely disappears for 2-3 days, then comes back without warning.

The pain is sharp, intense (to the pont of feeling nauseous), as if a needle was driven out from inside my bone. Like the other stories below, this happened when I was at rest, usually driving.

I severely bruised this same bone approx 5 years ago, but it has since healed, and I have not felt any pain for approx 4 years. I don't know if it is related. I assume it might be.

I am booking a doctor's appointment and will advise if I obtain a diagnosis.
Jul 08, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Left foot pain as well
by: Geoff

Why is it in the left foot for the vast majority of us? Do we all drive manual cars or are we all left handed, there must be something which causes this problem specifically with the left foot!
My pain occurs when sitting or resting in bed, sudden stabbing pain.

Manual Car, Left Handed, Runner
Jul 03, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Periodic stabbing pain on top of foot
by: John

A week ago I started having severe stabbing pain about 1 inch back from the pinki on my right foot. The two nights ago it would not go away. It felt like an ice pick being stuck into my foot - lasted for about 1-2 seconds and then nothing for about 10-15 seconds. Then another stab. This went on for two days - no sleep. Yesterday I managed to slip in to a DPM. He took xrays - no problem indicated. During the examination he identified very tender/sore streak from the point the pain occurred to about 2 inches toward the back of the foot. I had severe siatic nerve problems a year ago that were resolved. He stated that the top of the foot is served by a different nerve path and not the siatic.

The treatment was: spray the whole strip with really cold stuff, inject a mixture of anesthetic and cordozoner. (sorry about the spelling) Since I had this very well established pain duration and time period between shots of pain, his theory was to break the pain cycle by essentially temporarly disabling the nerve. Makes the right side of the foot numb. I also took 10MG of Diazepam. Tried to go to sleep last night but the pain persisted. Picked up ibuprofen and took 600mg (perscription strength) and Max-Freeze on recomendation of the pharmcist. After about an hour I was able to get to sleep for almost 7 hours. Woke up due to stabbing pain again but not so much. Tapered off during the day. Tonight there is no pain, no twitching along the nerve, and all feels normal. This might be the first full nights sleep in two weeks.

I think his theory about breaking the cycle was spot on. His speciality is foot surgery so I have confidence that he knows what he is talking about.

So far - so good. I am still puzzeled how the body can set up a periodic pain for 1-2 seconds and make it happen every 10-15 seconds for hours on end. I would really like to understand how this happends and why.
Apr 10, 2011
Rating
starstarstar 		damthathurt
by: bob

47 yr old, good health, good diet, way to much pepsi, beer, active, 6 pm yesterday had severe pain in top and small toe side of right foot, came on very suddenly, about a 6 on 1-10 pain scale, hurt more when I tried to walk, Took telonol and later ibuprofin eased up after about 5 hours, Nearly gone completely this morning. Suspect it to be muscular cramp,, this hurt very badly, at time I thought I had dislocated a bone or something. Thankfully it got better, good luck.
Apr 08, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		ME TOO
by: Tony

I have just started with these identical pains on the left side of my left foot.
I had the same symptoms 10 years ago following an operation on my back to relieve a large prolapse in the lower lumber which leads me to believe i may have aggravated my back while chopping down that bloody tree.
Apr 04, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Same here
by: Anonymous

For 3 weeks I've had sudden stabbing pain in the top of my right foot.

I suspected it had something to do with exercise, because I've been trying to hit the 6-minute mile. Recently I've had bothersome ankle and leg bone pain (which was new to me), and now the sudden stabbing pains in the top of my foot.

It worries me and I hope someone has answers.
Mar 29, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		The Foot Pain Continued
by: Ross

I'm 40, male, reasonably fit and have all the same symptoms - left foot, outside edge usually though - seems to "attack" mostly when I'm sitting or in bed, leading me to believe that this is some how related to poor circulation and perhaps, as someone mentioned earlier, a rush of blood back into veins or a pinched nerve. If I rub the spot (or keep my leg vibrating by pushing down on the ball of my foot - if I'm sitting) after the first shot of pain I can generally keep it from zapping me again, but I need to keep it going for ages and if I stop at some point I generally get zapped again!
Mar 24, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Please Help!!
by: Anonymous

I too am having a sharp stabbing pain in my left foot but mine is at the base of my second toe. I dont recall hitting it or dropping anything on it, its not swollen or red. The pain seems to only last about 30 seconds or so and goes away for awhile only to return...Any Ideas
Mar 08, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		add me to the list!
by: Dee B.

I have the same stabbing pain dead center of my right foot. Happens randomly. Usually when I am on my feet alot. Sometimes if I lift my foot up, it will help lessen the pain alittle. The pain is so sudden and quick I automatically yell "ow" and lift up my foot trying to get the pain to stop. It will stab 2 or 3 times in a row about 10-15 sec. apart and then go away. It sometimes comes back the next day or 2 then goes away for weeks or months. Another thing to just live with I guess.
Feb 20, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		update on ankle pain
by: sheri

Saw a neurologist on Feb. 18th. Had a neurological physical exam. Dr. diagnosed "neuralgia" and prescribed Gabatentin 200-400mg twice a day as needed. Have taken the med. for a couple of days now, but still experincing pain episodes lasting 5-10 minutes 3-6 times a day. Going to continue on med. for a while and see how it goes.
Feb 16, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		excruciating lateral ankle pain
by: sheri

Excruciating/"stabbing" ankle pain on my lateral (outside) ankle -- it comes and goes lasting a few seconds to a minute. I had to leave work today (I'm an RN who works in an Operating room). I had several attacks of pain and was afraid that I would randomly scream out in pain and scare a patient and/or staff. A surgeon x-rayed my foot in the OR but no bone problems detected. Took the bus home as I was afraid to drive home because when the pain comes, it is overwhelming and i'm not sure how I would react.
I first noticed this pain 3 weeks ago - I was shopping and it took my breath away. that same day I had two other episodes. No more episodes until yesterday evening when I had an episode lasting a minute, then was awakened 3-4 times during the night with episodes. I made the mistake of "shaking it off" and going to work today. Have called my primary care Doc for a work-up. Does anyone have any insights??? I'm thinking that I need a full workup with a neurologist.
Jan 24, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Mine started this morning
by: Fred H

It's a sudden sharp excruciating pain in the top of my left foot as described in other posts. It comes on about onece every five minuites, lasts for about 5 seconds, and disappears completely. Apparently no one has posted a diagnosis.
Jan 17, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		No one has a diagnoses ?
by: JD


There are quite a few of us. I will keep watching
so please keep us informed if you see results from
meds, diet, whatever. Geez it hurts, only for 5 to
sixty seconds but still. Eventually we'll ID this.
Jan 17, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		follow-up to left foot left side comment I left
by: Anonymous

Well, the next day, I went to the internist. She said don't worry about a clot. Those occur on large veins, like at the calf. She sent me for an xray--hypothesizing I had a small fracture. But, no dice. The pain was present the following night--for which I took a Vicadin she prescribed. It has disappeared since then. Now I'm thinking it is some slight shingles episode.
Jan 09, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Doc, He said : "In the top of the foot DEAD CENTER
by: Anonymous


I too have been dealing with these pain zaps
since 2007 or so. I think it is uric acid/gout
related but not in nor slightly behind toes at all. Looking down at top of foot its about midway up the arch in the top of foot as it rises to ankle. Veins seem to converge or branch. In my minds eye the pain is so electric intense its as if its a few thousand capillaries suddenly denied blood. But all my frantic rubbing and praying do nothing to stop it. Then its gone - so completely gone that I forget about it. Months at a time no problem then... ZAP !

Somebody's got a voodoo doll with a bigass hat pin ready to stick in top right foot again!
I've had to steer clear of beer as I often have
attacks after.
Jan 09, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		narrow shoes causing pain?
by: Anonymous

My pain seem to start after wearing narrow pointed shoes for a long time.
Jan 03, 2011
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Left top of foot left side
by: Anonymous

Like those listed, I, too, have been awakened by this and cannot return to sleep. I am worried that this is a symptom of a clot. So far, this has been going on almost 24 hours. Ibuprofen seemed to help in the daytime--and evening but not now, during the middle of the night.
Nov 30, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Severe, Sudden, Stabbing pain in foot
by: CW

I have the same, sudden and very sharp pain on my right foot. Similar to what others have reported, it comes without warning and is so sudden and severe that it causes me to cry out in pain. It is as if someone is driving a nail down the top center of my foot. It doesn't seem to be related to activity and happens most when I'm sitting and/or (trying) to sleep. It has been happening on and off for about 2 weeks, but seems to be getting worse. I can go several hours without any pain, but then will have several attacks (lasting 5 seconds to 1 minute) in a row. I had an Xray last week which showed nothing remarkable and have a bone scan later this week. My doc gave me pain medication which is of no use because the pain is so sudden and only lasts for a short time. Would love to hear what other's have found out about this. Is it a nerve disorder? I've fractured my hip twice and know what bone pain feels like. This does not feel like bone pain.
Nov 15, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		top of left foot pain
by: S J

I too have pain on the top of my left foot! It's awful...lasts a few seconds to a minute, and comes in waves. Mine is in the center top of the foot, not near the toes or ankle.
It is so severe it can keep me from sleeping. If I am sitting still, I am shocked from the pain.
It can go away for a couple of days, and then return...happening several times to maybe 30 times a day.
My left foot has hurt for about a year now. I do not have a sprain or swelling. It is so strange.
Sep 26, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Me too
by: Anonymous

43 year old male. Regular excercise and quite fit. Experienced a sudden sharp pain in my left foot six times today. If I am relaxed, the pain causes me to cry out, but when it hapened while I was running, it seemed less severe.
Aug 14, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		same pain
by: Chuck

I started having the same pain about 3 hrs ago. Very sharp on top of my rt foot. Lasts for a second, comes every 15-30 seconds. has lasted for 3 hours now. Woke me up from a dead sleep.
Aug 09, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		What is this ..
by: Shelia

Mine is 1inch in frnu of leg.she was realy trying to find
Aug 09, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		same
by: Anonymous

i am having the same sensation, it just started happening about an hour ago, its in the middle of the night and i woke up because of the pain. it seems my foot has a stabing sensaton every 5 seconds and its not going away, i am in severe pain as of now. idk what to do. it doesnt seem as seriouse as to alert a doctor though,
May 12, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Same pain, but bottom of foot
by: jhrBanker

I have exactly the same pain, except that mine is in the bottom of the left foot, about 2/3 of the way back towards the heal, and close to the outside of the foot. I work from home at a desk, and spend alot of time without shoes. I've seen a Podiatrist, but it seems like she only wants to sell me shoes, and I can't see how that can help when I spend most of my time sitting at a desk.
Apr 12, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I also have the same pain
by: Anonymous

I thought that I must be the only one to experience this type of sharp, stabbing, excruciating pain on the top of my foot because every time I try to explain it to someone they look at me like "yeah, right". I decided to search the internet to see if anyone else was as "crazy" as I was. Apparently I am not the only one suffering from this painful infliction. I too have asked my doctor what this could be. He has no idea. He "could not see anything". Just as anonymous asked and the good doctor refers to toes. I don't think they know actually. If we could only get a straight answer.
Jan 09, 2010
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		I'm feeling you
by: Anonymous

I have your same pain. Left in all.
Nov 05, 2009
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Same symptoms
by: Melissa

I am 26 years old, 5'6", approximately 134 lbs, in good physical shape, exercise regularly (at least 3 times a week - strength training and cardio - with a personal trainer) and have a good balanced diet.

I also experience these intense sharp shooting, stabbing pains on the top of my left foot, ever so slightly to the right of the top center of my foot, above the arch. So it's not near the 3rd & 4th toes - nor near the toes at all actually, it's more in line with the 1st and 2nd toes, but higher up. This pain is incredible when it happens, 'world stopping' as the previous post said - enough to collapse and writhe in pain. It also lasts between a couple of seconds, to a minute. Sometimes it happens numerous times a day or numerous times an hour, sometimes spaced only a few minutes apart - whether or not I am wearing shoes. Then, it won't happen again for days, sometimes weeks, and then, all of a sudden, it's back to numerous times a day.

I sit a lot since I am a cello teacher, so I don't know if this has anything to do with it. But I have been a cellist practically my whole life and have spoken with other cello teachers who have been teaching a lot longer than I have, but they have not experienced this before. I noticed this pain starting a lot this last summer, then it subsided, and now it's back in full swing. I can't work out what triggers it, or what I should do about it. Is this something I should worry about? It's only on the top of my left foot. This summer I also felt it in my hands, but haven't since. It looks like a nerve in my foot..or a vein, or something. I can sort of see a fine line when it starts the severe stabbing pain.

Any help/advice/ideas are so, very appreciated.

Thank you,
Melissa

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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
If you happen to live in the New York - New Jersey area and would like to visit our office

Dr. Marc Mitnick

151 Summit Ave.
Summit, NJ 07901
908-522-0761


To make an appointment online or for directions to our office click Dr. Marc Mitnick.

DISCLAIMER: The purpose of this site is purely informational in nature. It is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any medical condition. This information is not a substitute for advice from a medical professional. Please consult your healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and treatment. The information presented here may be subject to errors and omissions.


SITE LAST UPDATED: MAY 2026




MY PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS
(items I prescribe in the office)


Orthotics for multiple types of foot pain
best buy in a pre-made orthotic
click link below


SuperStepOrthotics

Orthotics for heel and arch pain for those who must wear dress shoes
click link below


redithotics

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Hunterville, NC
….after reviewing your amazing site (great for the avg. jill). So thank you very much!!!

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NY
I am really, really impressed with your plain-speak explanations for the various conditions.

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NJ
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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
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Yvette

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

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Scotland
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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
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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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