[59F] Experiencing intermittent foot pain and tingling

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible causes for your symptoms include:

• Stress Fracture: This is a small crack in a bone that occurs over time due to repetitive force, often from overuse — such as repeatedly jumping up and down or running long distances. Stress fractures are most common in the weight-bearing bones of the lower leg and foot.

  • Treatment typically involves rest and refraining from the activity that caused the stress fracture. In some cases, surgery may be needed.

• Peripheral Neuropathy: This is a result of damage to your peripheral nerves, often causing weakness, numbness and pain, usually in your hands and feet. It can also cause tingling in the feet. Diabetes is a common cause, but it can also result from injuries, infections, and exposure to toxins.

  • Treatment involves managing the condition causing the neuropathy. Pain and physical therapy may also be part of the treatment plan.

• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: This is a compression, or squeezing, on the posterior tibial nerve that produces symptoms anywhere along the path of the nerve running from the inside of the ankle into the foot.

  • Treatment usually begins with non-surgical methods that may include rest, immobilization, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotic devices.

What you can do

It would be best to consult a doctor about your symptoms so that they can provide a formal assessment and order relevant tests if necessary. In the meantime, you can try the following to relieve your symptoms:

1. Rest your foot and avoid activities that make your symptoms worse.
2. Apply ice to the affected area.
3. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help with the pain.
4. Wear shoes that fit well and provide good support.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently:

• If your pain becomes severe or unbearable
• If you notice swelling, redness, or warmth in the affected area
• If your symptoms do not improve with rest and over-the-counter treatments
• If you develop any new symptoms

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I am not a doctor. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide you with a formal diagnosis and treatment plan.