Pain on the top of the foot can range from minor to debilitating. Within the foot there are muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, and nerves, all of which can be injured or not function properly, resulting in pain on the top of the foot. 

There are many different causes of pain on the top of the foot, such as: 

Sprain 

Stretching or tearing of ligaments

Strain

Injury to tendon or muscle

Stress fracture

Small cracks in the bones due to overuse 

Tendonitis

Inflammation of the tendons 

Can be caused by overuse 

Wearing shoes that are too tight

Wearing tight shoes when you have high arches can cause pain

Tight shoes can also cause tendonitis 

Osteoarthritis 

Wear and tear over time of the cartilage that covers and protects the surface of the joints 

Lisfranc injury (also called Lisfranc fracture)

Nerve problems 

Can cause tingling, prickling, burning, and numbing sensations along with pain

Pain may be due to a problem further up the leg where nerves are compressed or damaged

Medical conditions

What Are Symptoms of Pain in the Top of the Foot?

Symptoms of pain in the top of the foot can vary depending on the cause and may include: 

Pain

May range from mild to moderate to severe

May be sudden or severe when anything touches the foot

May start near the bottom of the big toe

May worsen with activity

May be worse after resting

Swelling

Bruising

Stiffness that lasts a long time

Grating or crackling sensation when moving the foot

A lump along a tendon

Red, hot, swollen skin

Abnormal toe curling

“Pins and needles” feeling or numbness

See a doctor for pain on the top of the foot and: 

Go to a hospital’s emergency department for pain on the top of the foot and:

Pain is severe 

You cannot walk

You heard a snapping, grinding, or popping noise when an injury occurred

You feel faint, dizzy, or nauseated from the pain

The foot has changed shape or is at an odd angle

How Is Pain in the Top of the Foot Diagnosed?

The cause of pain in the top of the foot is diagnosed with a patient history and a physical examination of the foot. 

Depending on the suspected cause, tests may include: 

What Is the Treatment for Pain in the Top of the Foot?

Treatment for pain in the top of the foot depends on the cause. 

For many types of foot pain, the RICE method can be used: 

Rest: keep weight off the affected foot

Ice: to decrease pain, swelling, and redness

If an injury is iced immediately, it may prevent some inflammation

Use an ice pack or ice wrapped in a towel

Apply crushed ice for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, several times daily

Compression: to support the foot and prevent inflammation

Use elastic wraps such as Ace bandages

Do not wrap too tightly

Elevation: propped up the affected foot to help reduce fluid buildup in the injured tissue

Try to raise the foot above the level of the heart

Other home remedies for pain in the top of the foot include: 

Avoid:

If pain on the top of the foot is more severe, treatment may include:

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References

REFERENCES: Image source: iStock Images https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/foot-pain/pain-in-the-top-of-the-foot/ https://www.myfootdr.com.au/2020/10/why-does-the-top-of-my-foot-hurt/