Ask a doctor on the topic of Orthopedics

Midfoot pain - what could it be?

February 3, 2016 | 15,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med Ralf von Seckendorff

Ten days ago, I woke up in the morning and suddenly had pain in my left midfoot (4th toe from the inside). Since then, it has been practically unchanged: Mild to moderate pain when bearing weight (walking), but I can still walk. It gets slightly worse in the evening. As soon as I relieve the foot (sitting/lying down), the pain disappears instantly. Strangely, there are no visible changes from the outside: no discoloration or noticeable swelling. However, when I pull the 4th toe upwards, I experience relatively strong pain.

Before these ten days, I ran very quickly and suddenly to catch a tram. However, I didn't notice anything strange in my foot afterwards, until the next morning when I got out of bed.

I am male, 32 years old, normal weight, occasional jogger.

Could it possibly be a midfoot fracture, or would I definitely have stronger symptoms if it were? I don't want to go to the doctor immediately, but it has already been 10 days. How long can I wait, and could it also be a strain or something similar?

Dr. med Ralf von Seckendorff

Good evening,

I am a general practitioner with orthopedic experience. It is possible that you are suffering from a strain or irritation in the middle foot caused by overuse. It is advisable to initially apply ice, rest, elevate the foot, and take pain relievers such as ibuprofen or Voltaren. If there is no improvement after 10 days, it would be advisable to see a doctor for a foot examination to assess the less likely possibility of a stress fracture. In that case, an X-ray may be necessary. Best regards