Midfoot Pain: When to See a Rehab Specialist

Pain in the middle of the arch of the right foot?

Hello, I experience pain in my foot when I walk, specifically during plantar flexion, but I am not overweight and have not been injured or engaged in sports.
I don't believe it is a case of plantar fasciitis.
The pain has been intermittent since the night before last, sometimes severe and sometimes mild.
Should I see a rehabilitation specialist to check for bone spurs, or should I wait and see if it resolves on its own?

abc, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/20

Dr. Wang Zhaomin reply Rehabilitation

Although plantar fasciitis commonly occurs in the heel, inflammation can also affect other areas of the foot where the plantar fascia extends towards the forefoot.
If there is no improvement after rest, it is advisable to consult an orthopedic or rehabilitation specialist for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Reply Date: 2020/02/20

More Info

Midfoot pain can be a frustrating and concerning issue, especially when it interferes with daily activities like walking. Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing pain during plantar flexion, which is the movement of pointing your toes downward. Since you mentioned that you are not overweight, have not engaged in any recent sports activities, and have not sustained any injuries, there are several potential causes for your midfoot pain that should be considered.

One possibility is that you may be experiencing a condition related to the soft tissues in your foot, such as tendinitis or a strain of the muscles or tendons that support the midfoot. These conditions can occur even without a specific injury, especially if there has been a change in your activity level or if you have been on your feet more than usual. Additionally, overuse or repetitive stress can lead to inflammation in the tendons, which may cause pain during certain movements.

Another potential cause could be related to the structures of the foot itself, such as the ligaments or joints in the midfoot region. Conditions like midfoot arthritis or ligament sprains can also lead to pain during movement. While you mentioned that you do not believe it to be plantar fasciitis, it is worth noting that the pain can sometimes be referred from other areas, and a thorough examination is necessary to rule out any underlying issues.

Regarding your concern about bone spurs, it is indeed possible for bone spurs (osteophytes) to develop in the foot, particularly in response to chronic irritation or inflammation. However, the presence of bone spurs does not always correlate with pain, and many individuals may have them without experiencing any symptoms. An X-ray or MRI can help determine if there are any bone spurs or other structural abnormalities contributing to your pain.

Given that your pain has fluctuated over the past few days, it is advisable to consult with a rehabilitation specialist or a podiatrist. They can perform a comprehensive evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly imaging studies, to identify the root cause of your pain. They may also assess your gait and foot mechanics, which can provide valuable insights into any contributing factors.

In the meantime, you can take some initial steps to manage your pain. Resting your foot, applying ice to reduce inflammation, and avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain can be beneficial. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may also help alleviate discomfort. Additionally, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for the foot and calf muscles may be recommended once the acute pain subsides.

In summary, while it may be tempting to wait and see if the pain resolves on its own, seeking the advice of a rehabilitation specialist is a proactive approach that can lead to a more accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. Early intervention can help prevent the development of chronic pain and ensure that you can return to your normal activities without discomfort.

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