Having pain on the top of your foot may not be as common as other foot problems, but it can make it challenging to wear shoes and move comfortably. The cause of pain on the top of the foot may be tight-fitting footwear, foot or ankle sprain injuries, and certain diseases like gout and arthritis. Since the pain can radiate to the top of the foot from other areas, be sure to see your foot doctor to determine the precise cause and proper treatment.

Some of the possible causes of pain on the top of your foot include the following:

• Acute or hairline fractures—The bones that make up your toes are quite fragile and can be easily injured when something heavy like a laptop or a phone is dropped on your foot. Hairline fractures can radiate pain to the top of the foot. Imaging studies are often needed to confirm the location of stress fractures.
• Poorly fitting shoes—Tight-fitting shoes can cause pressure on the top of the foot, causing rubbing, swelling, blistering, pain, and discomfort.
• System-wide diseases—Arthritis, gout, diabetes, and peripheral artery disease can increase joint and immune system problems and increase pain, numbness, and tingling on the top of the foot.
• Hormone imbalances—Undergoing pregnancy or menopause causes hormone changes that may increase pain on the top of the foot.
• Aging—As you get older, the bones and soft tissues weaken, and pain on the top of the foot is more likely to happen.

If it hurts when you put any weight on your foot, or if you have pain that doesn’t subside after a day or two of rest, seek the help of your foot doctor. Call Syracuse Podiatry, located in East Syracuse, New York. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, and Dr. Donal M. Erickson, and their staff will help you diagnose and treat your foot or ankle condition. Call 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online today.