Since January 2004, I have had pain in the back of my foot. I am currently being treated by a podiatrist. I have tried ice, a night boot, stretching every morning, a variety of NSAIDs, pshysical therapy for a month, lifts, and orthotics. I almost had surgury, but there is no spur to remove. I do have a spur, but it's on the bottom of my foot. That only hurts when I put my full weight on it. The pain in the back of my foot hurts all the time, night and day, standing or sitting. I work in retail, but I love my job and will NOT give it up. I am trying a cast now. I have had three X-rays and a MRI. That showed nothing. Why am I in so much pain? I am overweight, but I have lost weight (ten pounds!). I don't know what else to do. I am fed up with the negative tests and with my doctor not having any answers. Should I seek treatment elsewhere?

Dear Saturdai,
It sounds like they are doing everything possible to help you. Have they tried injection therapy? Other alternatives prior to surgery would be Extracorporal Shock Wave Therapy, check with your doctor to see you would be an appropriate candidate.

Good-luck and thank-you for contacting foot.com,
SBarlizo, DPM
foot.com expert