Foot pain can be frustrating, especially when it interferes with daily activities like walking, running, or even wearing shoes. If you’re experiencing pain on top of your foot, with or without swelling, it’s important to understand the possible causes and how to find relief.
At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, we help student-athletes, adults, and older individuals manage foot pain effectively. Book an appointment at one of our locations in Chardon, Chagrin Falls, or Middlefield, OH. Our specialists are ready to provide expert care to get you back on your feet.
If you have pain on the top of your foot but no visible swelling, you may have one of the following underlying conditions.
Damage to the peroneal nerve can cause pain to the top of the foot. Peripheral neuropathy can be caused by conditions such as alcoholism or diabetes.
Over time, the cartilage in the foot joints can wear down, causing pain and stiffness. While this condition is more common in older adults, it can also affect athletes with a history of foot injuries.
If you have pain on the top of your foot with visible swelling, you may have one of the following underlying conditions.
A fracture in the metatarsals or other foot bones can cause significant pain, swelling, and bruising. If you suspect a broken bone, it’s essential to seek medical care immediately.
Tiny cracks in the bones of the foot, often caused by repetitive impact, can lead to pain on top of the foot. Runners and athletes who increase their training intensity too quickly are at higher risk.
A twisted ankle or overstretched ligaments can result in inflammation and pain on top of the foot. Improper footwear can make these injuries worse.
Gout is a form of arthritis that can cause sudden, severe pain in the big toe joint and foot. It’s triggered by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints.
This condition occurs when the tendons that run along the top of your foot become inflamed. Overuse, wearing tight shoes, or excessive pressure from certain activities can contribute to this type of foot pain.
In rare cases, an infection in the foot can lead to swelling, redness, and pain. This may occur after an injury, surgery, or due to an underlying medical condition.
Treatment for pain on the top of the foot depends on the underlying cause but often includes:
At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, we provide personalized treatment plans for foot pain, whether it’s due to extensor tendonitis, stress fractures, or other conditions affecting the top of the foot. Our specialists will assess your symptoms and recommend the best course of action to get you moving comfortably again.
If your foot pain persists for more than a few days, worsens with activity, or is accompanied by severe swelling or bruising, it’s time to seek medical attention. You should also see a doctor if you have difficulty walking, numbness, or any signs of infection, such as redness and warmth in the affected area.
Ignoring foot pain can lead to more serious complications, including long-term joint problems. At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, our experienced team can diagnose and treat a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, including flat feet, helping you recover faster and get back to your normal routine.
Don’t let foot pain slow you down. Whether you’re an athlete dealing with stress fractures or an adult struggling with degenerative arthritis, Precision Orthopaedic Specialties is here to help. Our board-certified specialists provide advanced care for foot and ankle pain at our convenient locations in Chardon, Chagrin Falls, and Middlefield, Ohio.
If you’re experiencing pain on top of your foot, schedule an appointment today and take the first step toward relief!
Medically reviewed by Mark J. Mendeszoon, D.P.M.
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