Common causes
Metatarsalgia
A general term for pain and inflammation under the ball of the foot, often from pressure. It's common with high-impact activity, high heels, thin-soled shoes, and high arches.
Morton's neuroma
A thickened, irritated nerve between the toes, most often between the third and fourth toes. It can cause burning, tingling, or numbness in those toes, or a feeling that your sock is bunched up under your foot. Tight, narrow shoes usually make it worse.
Joint and ligament irritation
Irritation of the joint at the base of a toe, often the second toe, can cause pain and swelling there and may let the toe start to drift.
Stress fracture
Pain and swelling on the top of the foot that gets worse with activity, especially after increasing your running or walking, can be a stress fracture. Stop the activity and get it checked.
Which visit to book
Book the Focused Pain visit ($199).
When not to wait. If you can't put weight on your foot after an injury, have a wound, spreading redness, warmth, fever, or a foot that suddenly turns cold, pale, or dark, go to urgent care or an emergency department, or call 911. This clinic does not provide emergency care.