Not what you're looking for? CLICK HERE INSTEAD



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

Top of the foot pain

by Christopher Grant
(New Hampshire)

I am 36 years old and in fairly good health. I am 5'10" and about 210 lbs and consider myself to be in reasonable shape.


I was walking on vacation about a week ago in a pair of good condition sneakers. I stopped to open a door, took a first step with my left foot and upon planting the foot felt a "pop" and a sharp intense pain on the top of my foot about two inches behind the base of my second toe. The pain moved into a burning sensation shortly after. Since then, my foot has remained mildly swollen but there is no significant bruising. There is throbbing and sometimes sharp pain on the top of my foot. I continue to have foot pain in the same spot, but am able to walk on the foot with a slight limp. When I bend my toes down, I feel a "vibration" in that same spot but it sometimes feels that it is moving forward and backward as I move my toes. The only description I can think of is dragging rubber across glass, as it catches and then skips forward and catches again. It is a more sharp pain when I move my toes up. I have taken 3-4 advil, two to three times a day since with no significant improvement. I spent the majority of the rest of my vacation in comfortable sandals and shoes other than my sneakers since then with no real improvement.

I have had Morton's Neuroma mentioned to me as something to consider, but when I look up the symptoms online, my gut reaction is that these don't seem to be the same thing. Does Morton's Neuroma seem like a reasonable possibility and what could some other possibilities be.

Thanks,
Chris

Hi Chris,
A "popping" sound is never a good sign. It generally signifies a tendon rupture. Since your pain is on top of your foot it is quite possible that you ruptured the tendon that lifts the second toe up. I have to tell you that this is a very rare injury, certainly from just walking.
Since Morton's neuroma occurs on the bottom of the foot I doubt that is the cause of your pain.
Unfortunately, I think you will have to seek medical care on this one because if there is a true rupture, it is not going to heal on its own.
Good luck.
Marc Mitnick DPM

Comments for Top of the foot pain

Average Rating starstarstarstarstar

Click here to add your own comments

May 19, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Top of foot pain too
by: Ann

Hello Doc,
For the past 4 days I've been speed walking alot more than normal since it's part of my job. I feel pain on top of my left foot. It's like a weird pop, crackling and stretch sensation. I don't know any other way to explain the weird pain. I know it's not broken because I can still move my toes....though it feels really weird when I wiggle my toes. I don't want to go to the doctors because I'm on a very tight budget. Any advice or home remedies you can offer? Please and thank you.
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Sounds like you may have injured the extensor tendon, the tendon that allows your toes to bend upwards, but of course I am just guessing since I cannot examine you.
If you must continue to speed walk make sure you are in some kind of athletic shoes.
You can ice the area as much as possible to reduce the pain.
If you can tolerate them, try Aleve, Advil or Motrin on a regular dosing schedule for one week and see if that helps.
The fact that you may have to keep speed walking may prevent you from improving.
If after a week or so, you are no better, you may have to bite the bullet and see a doctor.

Marc Mitnick DPM
May 13, 2017
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Question to Kari and Chris
by: Leslie

Kari and Chris, Did either of you figure out what the problem was? Same thing happened to me. I went to a doc, but not sure how long recovery will be. Hoping just a few more weeks. I have to travel in a few weeks to help my dad... please let me know the outcome of your situations
Aug 20, 2016
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Foot pain
by: Kari

Hi, about 2 weeks ago i stepped down on my left foot and felt a pop in the top of my foot and side of my foot...the pain goes into my last 2 toes and have a burning sensation in my foot and toes. I have done everything i can for the pain but nothing is touching the pain. Is this something i should be concerned about? I do have fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis...would this cause this pop to happen?
---------------------------------------------
The pop is more suggestive of damage to a tendon, possibly a tear, or damage to a ligament.
If at two weeks you are still in pain, and nothing you have tried has helped, then you should seek medical care.

Marc Mitnick DPM
Nov 09, 2015
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Chris I had the same thing happen to me!
by: Tanya

Hi there, I went online to see about my injury and Chris described his pain the exact same way I would. I was just wondering if you were diagnosed with anything or where I should start with my Dr. It's awful.... Hope your feeling better.

Thank you
Tanya
Jul 23, 2014
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		Same thing for my foot
by: Dean taylor

Hi there doctor.
Last week at boxing, I was sparring - in the 5th round, I felt a massive pop in the middle part of my foot.

I fell to the floor screaming, I can not move my toes correctly and I have lots of bruising around my toes, the side and bottom of my foot. Bit of pain on my ankle. X rays have shown no break but the pain is still quite intense. It's been nearly a week now. Any ideas please, what it could be? Advice?
Email me if you want??
Kindest regards,
Dean

Hi Dean,
You do not have to have a fracture to have a lot of pain. If a week has passed and you are still having serious pain, you need to see a foot specialist.
If this was a simple sprain you would be feeling much better by now and you are not. Sounds like it requires medical care.

Marc Mitnick DPM
Nov 15, 2008
Rating
starstarstarstarstar 		severe sharp pain
by: Anonymous

i have had for 2 weeks now a sharp pain in my second toe. feels like someone is stabbing it. if i press hard on it slowly the pain goes away. but the pain brings me to tears it hurts. what could cause this?

Click here to add your own comments

Return to Ask the doctor.

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

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: APRIL 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

HONESTe Online Member Seal Click to verify - Before you buy!




I've been doing some aggressive research lately (it's how I found your incredible website) and realize now that my symptoms are not consistant with the diagnosis.

Jennifer

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

Liesbeth

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

Jacqueline

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

Jack

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

Jean

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

Andrew

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

Judy

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

L.W.

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

Yvette

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

Anna

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

J. Simmons

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

Yours truly,

J.C. Forbes

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

Steve

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

LH

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

Joe

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

Pete M.

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

Glenda B.

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

Carol

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

Dawn

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

Michael E.

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

Kelly

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

Michael D. Ebeling

Tampa, Florida 33624

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

Steve

UK

Dear Dr.Mitnick

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

I thank you for putting together this incredible website.

Regards,

Dragica W.

Edmonton,Canada

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

Roxy

South Africa

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

Matthew W.

Mansfield Ctr, CT

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

Steve

Placentia, California

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

Unknown

Unknown location

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

Ric J.

Unknown location

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

Ron R.

Pacific Grove, CA

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

All the best,

Victoria

Alameda, California

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

Anonymous

Thank you for your very interesting and informative site!

Anonymous



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

Thanks very much for the wonderful informative site.

Catherine

New Zealand

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

Sincerely

Josette

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

Cindy H.

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

Thanks, Kathy

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

Anna

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

M P

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

Natalie

unknown location


...Thanks for your fantastic service.

Gary

Arlington, VA


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

Kelly W.

San Clemente, CA


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

Pam

location unknown


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

Glen

location unknown


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

Bre

location unknown


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

anonymous



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

anonymous



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

Anna

Poland



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

Esh

Seattle, WA


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

Bonnie

location unknown



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

Bill

New Jersey



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

Debbie

location unknown



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

Chrissy

location unknown



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

Tracy

Evansville, IA



Dear Marc

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

Russ W.

location unknown



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

-Sunny.

location unknown



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

Jackie

San Diego, CA



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

Rivi,

Albany, NY



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

Jill S.

location unknown



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

Jackie

Whichita, KS



thanks again, this site is very helpful.

mark

Boston, MA



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

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

Michelle

Colorado



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

annielou

Colorado

Wonderful advice

by: Anonymous

This is the best site for foot problem info.

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

by: Max

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

Barb D.

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

Bonnie

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

Nancie

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

Julie

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

Renae

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

KG

location unknown

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

Bessie Mae

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

Lynne T.

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

Robert

New Jersey


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

a mom

location unknown


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

Melody

Lenoir, NC


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

Rustam

Bellevue, WA


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

Jodi

location unknown

Recent Articles

RSS

  1. Vitamin D impact on health

    Feb 06, 23 07:17 PM

    Researchers are suggesting that the effectiveness of Vitamin D in fighting and preventing disease is predicated on a persons body mass index (BMI). The thinner the person the greater the positive impa…

    Read More

  2. Foods to speed up healing

    Feb 01, 23 02:41 PM

    One of the best ways to help yourself heal faster after surgery is to eat well. Getting the proper nutrition will provide your body with the essentials it needs to promote healing. Here is a suggestio…

    Read More

  3. Cancer and Type 2 Diabetes

    Jan 25, 23 04:52 PM

    An article revealing that older type 2 diabetics have a higher incidence of cancer then non-diabetics. It is suggested that cancer may surpass CVD as the number one cause of death in older diabetics.

    Read More

  4. Does glucosamine or MSM reduce arthritis pain?

    Jan 22, 23 01:41 PM

    A good review of the possible benefits to taking glucosamine, chondroitin or MSM for arthritis. Always beware of the possible side effects of over the counter supplements.

    Read More

  5. shin splints

    Jan 18, 23 05:12 PM

    A great review on the various causes of shin splints, along with treatment options.

    Read More

  6. Whats new in skin cancer?

    Jan 15, 23 08:32 PM

    A presentation of newer skin protection combinations in an effort to better protect the skin from the hazards of sun exposure.

    Read More

  7. Causes and risk factors of warts

    Jan 14, 23 05:02 PM

    A good review of the causes of warts and protective measures you can take to prevent developing them.

    Read More

  8. Do chronic wounds need to be dressed daily?

    Jan 11, 23 02:18 PM

    Because of supply chain shortages as well as staffing shortages particularly during the pandemic, many institutions extended the time between dressing changes for chronic wounds. Is this really the be…

    Read More

  9. Food choices that raise your risk of type 2 diabetes

    Jan 08, 23 10:07 AM

    A good review of how blood sugars can become elevated and the harm that can do. Certain food groups have a tendency to raise your blood sugars and should be avoided.

    Read More

  10. Outcome stats from Scarf bunionectomy

    Jan 03, 23 03:04 PM

    The Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery recently reported a meta analysis of outcomes in 1583 Scarf bunionectomies that met their inclusion criteria. Adverse events did not seem to be any better or wors…

    Read More