OT: Foot pain

iain_j

OT cos I don't get the pain when cycling, but hope no-one minds...

Since I started going rock-climbing again about a month ago I've had pain in my left foot, kind of "within" the ball of my foot, near my two smallest toes. I get it I'm walking, as I roll my foot forwards, and when I'm climbing, if I put that edge of my foot on a hold. It's not a serious pain but enough to give me a limp from time to time.

What's come to mind is, about 6 months ago, walking round the house barefoot I stubbed those toes against a table leg - it bl00dy hurt and they were black and blue for about a week, though thinking they were just bruised I didn't go to the doctors.

Could it be I've done some damage, and the extra pressure on that part of my foot from climbing has set it off again? Would it be worth getting it checked over?

mclarent

I bruised/strained the same area of my foot doing the Great North Run this year, just RSI I think but had the same "inside the foot" feeling. It went away after a week or so by itself, if yours hasn't I'd suggest you go to the doctor.

ut_och_cykla

get it checked I would. but theres littel theyll do...

Blonde

It might just be a viral infection (you can get pain in feet and other bodyparts when run down) but if it does not clear up in a few days go to the docs. Could be plantar fasciitis, commonly known as heel spurs, which you can also get on the ball of the foot, not just in the heels - I know, I've had it!. All you can do for that is take ibruprofen (anti inflammatory) and rest, rest and more rest - which is not easy, it means no running, climbing, cycling or dancing for a few weeks and as little walking on it as possible. Shoe pads or gel cushions can help after the initial recovery, to prevent it recurring. BTW do you wear new shoes or are you using your old shoes for rock climbing? Your feet do change shape with ageing, so it might be worth checking your shoes are the right shape and size for your feet (and not too worn) and that you have enough arch support - in fact for all activities, not just for climbing. Plantar fascitiis and other foot problems can result from lack of arch support or ill fitting shoes as well as from excessive pressure or impact.

iain_j

Thanks for the replies.

It tends to clear up after a few days, but comes back again after another visit to the climbing wall, in the same place on my foot. I haven't got my own climbing shoes, I hire a pair from the place and some of them are a bit worn out - first pair I put on last week, my big toe was sticking out!

Went out walking in the hills last weekend for 6 hours with no problems, so it does seem to be something "climbing specific".

ut_och_cykla

It could be plantar thingy but I think the old injury is more likely a cause. Platar fascitis (sp?) is a blinking nuiscance - but I had good help from a physio who gave me special stretching exercises (for achilles etc) and some very adept strapping which took the worst of the strain off even when walking - thus speeding recovery. Running was off tho' and I still get a twinge if I run too far, or crouch down in the garden too much on that foot etc.