Dear Sir,

I went onto your site to see if I could find details of the condition which I have. This condition involves the very top of my right foot, from front of my ankle. The top of my foot is always swollen, and stiff, only my toes will bend; its like having a metal bar across the top of my foot which stops it bending. As a result, I have problems walking, and my back and hips are affected.

Can you tell me what this could be? Thank you so much.

M. McAlear

Hi!

I've been looking online for other people with the same symptoms my boyfriend has been complaining about for more than a year and it sounds like you fit the bill!

I have been bothering him forever to see a doctor. Just recently, within the last couple of months, he finally went. Well the doctor told him they could not find anything wrong with his feet (even though they look extremely huge and swollen on the tops just below the ankle) except that his weight was straining them. So I made an appointment with the Podiatrist. He also couldn't find much wrong except he thought that his big toe wasn't working properly (mainly just stiff) so he gave him a shot of steroids in both feet and told him he needed $400 orthotics. He claims the steroids didn't help and his feet are still in severe pain to the point where he has trouble walking.

I'm not sure if the orthotics will work but it just seems a shame to spend $400 on something that won't work. Especially after we have already spent tons of money on sneakers/boots, inserts, foot creams, medicines, etc...

I would be interested to find out if there is anyone else out there with these same problems and if so, what are they doing about it?

Thanks!

Noelle

Try another Podiatrist or Orthopedic Surgeon for another opinion. Good Luck !!

You need to first find out what is causing the swelling. You may want to discuss the different types of test that can be done to rule out possible causes. For example, is it duE to your blood circulation (vascular), lymphatic system or possibly an arthritis. To address the pain when you are walking I would suggest not only an orthotic but also a shoe with a rocker bottom sole. The rocker bottom sole WHICH will take some of the stress off your foot. There are also ready made orthotics that can help support and control the foot. You will find several options on Foot.com.

Suzanne Belyea, DPM, C.Ped.
Medical Director
Foot.com