I really don't know what's wrong!?

[brmorris]

I will do my best to describe what is going on! I've looked at all the foot injuries I could find but I can't find any that are the same symptoms as what I have!? The pain started probably about 6 months ago. It is in my left foot and started on the top/middle/outside. When I poke around, I can get to a spot that is more sore than anywhere else- it's in the long bones of the foot and straight down from my 4th/5th toes.

A bit of history... I've worked out a lot in my life, however, have just started working out again after about 2 years- pregnancy and birth to twins just over a year ago. We have 5 kids. In between each pregnancy I worked out and lost a lot of weight and now I'm starting down the same road again.

Weird thing- I hadn't even started working out when the pain started and the only time my foot really hurts or "gets worse" is when I've rested it, like sitting for a while and especially at night. It does not bother me when I'm moving it or when I'm working out. I have been using my elliptical just about everyday, and working out with the Biggest Loser workout program for the wii- cardio, strength and yoga, and I run once a week (for now).

Lately the pain seems to be moving outward toward my toes and up into my ankle. There are times, specifically when I wake up in the night because of the pain that my foot feels really swollen, but doesn't look like it. I also can hardly move my toes- like in flexing. When I get up to walk in the morning (or if I'm up in the night with the babies) my foot hurts unbelievably bad and I can only stand to walk on the inside of my foot and even that is painful. After a minute or so, I'm fine again. When my feet get cold- that makes it all worse!

I hope I've described it well enough to make any sense at all! Thanks for any help you can give! I have already had an x-ray on my feet to rule out a stress fracture.

Rachelle

[Heidi]

Hi
Any tingling or numbness in the foot? It could be mortons neuroma or similar: http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/cybertherapist/front/foot/mortons.htm

Who have you seen regarding this? Doctor....physio etc?
Although it started before you started exercising again and doesn't hurt during exercie, I would still rest from anything which puts impact through the feet.

[brmorris]

Thanks for some help! Once in a while I get what I think is some numbness, I think, in my toes. I looked up the link and it sounds very similar. I have only seen my family dr. who had x-rays done which ruled out a stress fracture. I haven't been to physio. We moved and I haven't found anyone since. Last night, I started swimming lessons (Total Immersion) and my foot was the most sore this morning as it has been in a long time! I'm not sure why that would make any difference- especially make it worse!? Can I ride a bike still? I have a bike trainer, just need to get it set up, but if I can do that- I will make it happen right away.

How do I go about finding a good physiotherapist? Are there some questions I can ask? I had a great one, but she moved about the same time we did and I haven't looked since. I would really like to find another one really close. I know of a couple places, but am worried to just walk in... for instance, this for sure needs to be dealt with, but I also want someone who has some experience with post (double) c-sections.

Thank you so much for all your help!!
Rachelle

[Heidi]

Hi
If you can ride a bike without pain or without stiring it up the next day then yes go for it. I would imagine this would be better for it than running or anything which causes impact. Having said that, I would have thought swimming would be ok.

It is difficult to find a good physio. The best thing you can do is go on recommendations from others and also ask about their experience and background. Most will be happy to tell you about themselves in order to put your mind at rest.

Good luck

[mattw]

Rachelle, check out the book Pain Free for Women by Pete Egoscue. It will explain why you have the pain and how you can get rid of it. The book talks about in detail pregnancy and the recovery from it and will help you not only regain your body but your strength and energy while becoming pain free. Have fun with it!