I have pain and/or stiffness
in the midfoot

Across the middle of the foot is a complex arrangement of multiple joints and the attachment of strong tendons. As such, there are many possible causes of pain or stiffness here that can make diagnosis difficult. Gradual onset of pain, perhaps with a sinking down of the foot's arch, may denote osteoarthritis. The small bones act like the wedge-shaped stones in the arch of a bridge. As the cartilage (the mortar between the stones) thins, the bones come together and the arch sinks.

Stress fracture through one of the bones can cause a fairly sudden onset of pain across the top of the midfoot, perhaps the day after a session of unaccustomed walking. Extra activity can also inflame one or more of the tendons in the vicinity (tendonitis). If this causes wear and tear changes in the major tendon on the inside edge of the foot (posterior tibial tendon), it can cause a collapsed arch. Some people have an extra bone just where the tendon attaches (accessory navicular). This can become painful at the inside edge of the midfoot.

It is important to remember that not every foot pain is due to a problem in the foot. Irritated nerves in the spine, perhaps due to a slipped disc, can cause sciatica, with pains on the top or outside edge of the midfoot. Sometimes the pain in the back can be minimal or absent.

 

The following list is a summary of some symptoms you may have. For full assessment and treatment of your particular problems, please contact us.

I have...

• suffered a sporting injury.

• a painful bump on the side of my big toe.

• pain and/or a lump in my heel.

• an ankle injury that's not improving.

• a weak ankle.

• ankle pain and/or stiffness.

• flat arches or a collapsed foot.

• painful toes.

• pain in the ball of my foot.

• an in-growing toenail.

• a stiff or painful big toe joint.

• pain and/or stiffness in the midfoot.

• clawed or curly toes.

• pain in my forefoot.

• pains in my shin.

• a lump on my foot.