Pain on the Top of the Feet - Midfoot Arthritis

After playing 18 holes of golf, I can hardly walk the next day because of an intense pain in the top of both of my feet. Any ideas as to what is causing this pain?

Dr. Johnny L. Lin:

Pain on the top of the foot after long period of walking is most commonly the result of mild arthritis in the middle of the foot. This injury is appropriately called Midfoot Arthritis. Midfoot Arthritis injuries can be caused by two unique and differing situations. The first cause of Midfoot Arthritis is a traumatic event or sprain to the midfoot. This trauma causes a partial dislocation of the midfoot, which turns into arthritis over time.

The second cause, which sounds like your injury, is the degeneration or loss of cartilage in the midfoot due to abnormal amounts of "wear and tear". This wear and tear is usually emphasized by chronic and abnormal range of motion in the midfoot, which leads to arthritis. This form of Midfoot Arthritis can also be accompanied with a burning or tingling sensation over the top of the foot, which radiates toward the toes. This is due to irritation of the nerves that normally supply the sensation to the top of the foot. Swelling is also common.

Treatment Options:

An orthopaedic specialist usually verifies the diagnosis of Midfoot Arthritis with an examination and X-ray. Initial treatment consists of over the counter anti-inflammatories for the pain and swelling, purchasing shoes with good arch support (this includes inserts and custom orthotics) for the abnormal midfoot motion, and maintaining good flexibility of the ankle by stretching the Achilles tendon.

Another possible cause for the pain you are experiencing is a stress fracture. A stress fracture can also be diagnosed with an X-ray and treatment usually consists of casting and rest. Due to your pains existence on both feet this seems unlikely however.

Overall, in order to keep yourself active during this golf season, while taking the next steps to heal or improve your arthritis I recommend driving a cart instead of walking the course.

For more information about Dr. Lin and the Foot and Ankle physicians of Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, call 877 MD BONES or contact us through this Web site.

This information is not intended as a substitute for the professional advice of your physician, nor to be a complete description of every aspect of a condition, nor a complete list of possible side effects of any medication. Decisions concerning your treatment should be based on your own health care provider's evaluation of your personal health history and current condition. Consult your physician before following any of the suggestions on this Web site. All articles on this Web site represent the personal opinions of the individual authors and should not be construed as official policy of Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush.