Dropping something heavy on the top of your foot can cause a fracture. Diseases like diabetes can contribute to the top of the foot pain and numbness. Pain on the top of the foot has many possible causes, so be sure to see your foot doctor to get the proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

3 additional causes of pain on the top of the foot include the following:

1. Arthritis—and other systemic diseases like diabetes can contribute to swelling, pain, and tenderness on the top of the foot. If you have diabetes, peripheral nerve damage may also be involved.
2. Poorly fitting shoes—Shoes that are too tight constrict the blood flow and pinch nerves in the foot, which can contribute to top of the foot pain. Strive to avoid wearing high heels and wear shoes that have extra room in the toe box in order for your toes to move more freely.
3. Stress fractures—The fragile bones on the top of your foot and the surrounding area are subject to hairline fractures from a variety of causes. A hairline fracture can radiate pain to the top of the foot even if the actual injury is on the opposite side.

If you have pain and discomfort on the top of your foot that doesn’t subside after rest, ice, and elevation you should see your foot doctor to get properly treated and to avoid any future complications. At Your Next Step, our team of board-certified podiatrists has access to advanced technologies, along with years of experience, to help diagnose and treat a variety of foot and ankle problems, including sports injuries, joint pain, toe deformities, nail fungus, chronic tendon pain, and skin problems. Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich, and Dr. Aliza V. Eisen provide high-quality foot and ankle care to patients in the greater Philadelphia area at our offices conveniently located in Ardmore, Paoli, Woodlyn, and Downingtown. Please contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.