Help! I have been experiencing acute foot pain for about a year now. The pain occurs along the top and side of my left foot, around the middle of my foot, between the ball and ankle regions. The pain is sharp upon standing in the morning, but lessens with use, only to become very aggravated after any length of time standing or walking (any longer than 15 minutes on my feet and I'm limping!). The pain along the top of my foot seems to be between the bones (metatarsals?) of my pinky toe and the one next to it. Also, I have pain along the outer left edge of my left foot. It is very tender to the touch. It is not the skin that hurts, but rather the tissue/muscle/tendon under the skin. If I probe in just the right spot, I think I can feel a small (pea sized) lump in between the bones (metatarsals) mentioned earlier.
I had surgery approximately five years ago on both feet to correct heel spurs/plantar fascia problems. My doctor at the time told me he was going to sever (???!!!) the tendons along the bottom of my feet. This surgery followed a year or more of unsuccessful treatment including cortisone injections and orthotics. Surgery has left my feet very flat. I have tried orthotics and Birkenstock sandals, but both have left me in worse pain than ever.
I have been to an orthopedist who said it sounded like tendonitis, but offered no treatment other than rest. Unfortunately, rest is not an option. I am a stay at home mom with three little ones, so sitting around with my feet up is unrealistic (although it sounds pretty nice). Because the orthopedist was more focused on a knee problem I was experiencing than my foot problem, I don't think she did a thorough examination. Her advice seemed sort of "off the cuff". I just cannot remain untreated with the level of pain I am having. Can anyone offer me advice about what this could be and where I should go from here. Sorry for all the information, but I hope it helps give a full picture of my problem. I really appreciate any feedback! Thanks! |
