Extreme (and getting worse) foot pain on entire base of foot :(
by Libby
(Australia)
Hi!
I am desperate for anything that could help me - I get really really severe foot pain which has bothered me for years but it's getting to the point of not being able to walk at all... I'm 25 years old.
I get pain everywhere that contacts the ground when I stand or walk. If I had to localise the pain I'd say heel area but it's almost as bad everywhere my foot touches the ground (heel, arch, side, and up to the toe region). It's bad in the morning but gets worse the longer I stand or walk. By the end of a day where I've only had to stand long enough to walk between lecture theatres or cook dinner I'm almost in tears.
I have had orthotics for years, have tried every form of conventional therapy known to man but I just can't find anyone who has ANY idea what could be causing this problem.
I am overweight (but not obese) but had this problem before I became overweight as my feet prevent me from doing any form of weight-bearing exercise.
Any ideas? :(
Thank you for any help you can give
Libby
Hi Libby,
Usually severe pain when ambulating in a young women is usually due to a foot structure abnormality of some sort. (very low arch, high arch, no fat on bottom of foot, etc.) Weight can be a contributing factor as well as poor shoe selection.
In most instances these problems are addressed through the use of orthotics. I realize you have had orthotics but perhaps you need one of a different material or support.
I would recommend you seek medical attention, bring the orthotics you presently have and let the doctor decide if a different orthotic would better serve you.
Marc Mitnick DPM