Toe Pain

[Emmyjake]

I just got new shoes about a month ago. I've been noticing since I switched that I've been experiencing pain in my toes, mainly on my left foot but occasionally on both feet. A friend told me about the nerve between your second and third toes and it feels like that's what may be irritated when I run. The same friend said that a wider shoe may help. I've been through two new shoes since I got that information and nothing seems to help.

What happens when I run is at first my toes will sort of tingle and feel numb, but around mile three to four, the toes in my left foot are in major pain and I have to walk or stop and put it up. The pain seems to be more bearable when I run on grass (or snow in this weather) but that's just not always the best surface while the ground is thawing and turning into mud. Any ideas? One friend said her mom used to put a piece of foam in between the second and third toe. That just sounds annoying, but I'll try it if it really works! I'd love to hear any advice.

[Heidi]

Hi
Have you thought you may be tying your laces too tightly? Is that possible?
Otherwise, it could be a nerve impingement, this is definately possible. You can wear foam inserts, either between the toes or under the forefoot to spread the metatarsals (long foot bones).
Have a look here:
http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/cybertherapist/front/foot/mortons.htm