2/3 Toe Pain when running

[gasco]

When running, I often get pain in the 2 and 3 toes and the bones they articulate with. It feels as if my toes are dislocated. On most occassions the issue seems to right itself, but sometimes I am forced to stop. Any thoughts?

[George]

I think, it would be helpful to know more details about these incidents. For example, does it occur when running on grass, or hard surface? Does it occur when running long distances or even in short ones? Type of shoe (sufficient absorption ?), etc
regards,
George

[Ruth]

Hello,

It could be the fact that the biomechanics of your feet are not quite right, and when running you are putting an awful lot of force through your feet! Even if you are fairly light, a small discrepancy in your foot alignment can really cause problems!

Nowadays with the wonders of modern technology it is actually possible to get the forces measured across your foot when walking and running (it's fascinating, I had it done and it showed up all the things I had wrong with my feet without telling the man who was demonstrating what my previous history was!).

Although this technology might not be available to you I think you would certainly be advised to seek out a podiatrist and explain the problems you are having when you are running. Be sure to take your running shoes with you as s/he might want to examine them as well.

If your shoes are super-duper old or brand-spanking new, this can cause some problems, but it'd be a good idea to get your feet checked out anyways just to rule that out first!

Hope this is of some help, please let us know how you get on!

[gasco]

Thanks for the info / advice. Surface and distances seem to make no difference, sometimes short speed work (800 repeats) seem to hurt more - an indication that a harder foot strike is bothering the foot??

Having had achilles problems before I wear orthotics and use a stability running shoe, and I change them regularly. I shall seek help with a podiatrist. Thanks again.

[lennoxlew]

sounds like something I get.

My toe problem sounds similar, almost feels like a severe numb, cramp pain in bones at base of 2nd & 3rd toe. Mine flares with certain trainers, I find I get less problems when sticking with my old faithfuls, so bought new pair in same type. Now no problems for long time. Worse when running daily. I now run alternate days and not too far, say 3k on treadmill. but I'm not mainly a runner.
My physio said she thought something was pinching and tried a small piece of felt under the ball/toes to spread the feet bones. Didn't help me but then I was very sore by that point, its worth you trying at home, by the time I went to see her it was so bad I could barely walk, even went for x-ray. You can get stress fractures in the feet bones if you run a lot.

Mine cleared up after stopping jogging for a while, say 2 weeks, stuck to boxing & cross trainer stuff. I also replaced my old trainers, check your orthos don't need replacing or if they're new are they a diferent type.

Good luck