Lately I've noticed that the ball of my foot will swell. Though it always causes serious discomfort, it is not always painful- sometimes just feels tight and slightly numb. I have felt for a lump with my fingers but can find nothing. However, when I am standing on it, the area in question (it has occured with both feet in generally the same areas) feels hard. like maybe it is packed with cotton, or occasionally like there is a stone lodged under my skin. This is always preceeded by a very insistent itching sensation, which is difficult to describe... Its like the itch is not on the skin, but under it. As if its not my skin that itches, but deeper like the muscle is what itches. It generally lasts several hours, sometimes all day long if it starts in the morning, but usually fades and disappears completely by morning. Staying off my feet does not seem to help, since it has begun before I go to bed at night, and still been swollen in the morning. Any ideas what this could be, or advice on how to relieve the pain/discomfort. So far the only thing that seems to have helped before, is using an anti-inflammatory cream to quell the itching, and wrapping my foot snuggly with a cloth bandage. Please help, I'm worried this may be something serious!

Well you are exactly correct that swelling to that nature could be a serious condition; one which warrants a medical evaluation. You should first begin with a visit to your primary medical doctor who can then refer you to a vascular doctor if necessary. Swelling can result from circulatory conditions, high blood pressure, lymphedema and a host of other conditions. My suggestion is the medical exam which can tell so much and get you on the proper medications, such as anti-inflammatory or water pills ( diuretics) and possibly compression stockings if necessary. Keep us posted.

Foot.com staff member