Do you have ongoing soreness on the top of your foot but can't figure out why? Sometimes, this soreness is at its worst in the morning when you get out of bed, or maybe it seems to appear after you've walked around a little. It's important to figure out what is causing this soreness so you can treat it properly. Here's a look at three common causes of pain in the top of the foot and what to do about them.

Extensor Tendonitis

This condition is simply an inflammation of the tendons on the top of your foot. It tends to come on gradually, getting worse over time. Sometimes, the soreness may be accompanied by bruising. Extensor tendonitis is often caused by wearing shoes that are too tight and place too much pressure on the top of your foot. It may also be caused by spending prolonged periods walking to running without giving yourself time to adapt to these activities.

If you think you may have extensor tendonitis, switch to shoes that don't put pressure on the top of your foot, and lace them loosely. Apply ice to your foot for 20 minutes at a time, several times per day, and back off on any activity you think may have contributed to the injury. If you don't experience relief within a week or so, pay a visit to your podiatrist.

Metatarsal Stress Fracture

A metatarsal stress fracture is a crack in one of the bones in the top of your foot that is brought on by repeated strain. The soreness with this type of injury is usually quite severe; the foot is usually painful to touch and also swollen. The soreness of a stress fracture gets worse with activity. Generally, a stress fracture is caused by repetitive motions such as kicking, jumping, or running.

If you think you may have a stress fracture, you should visit a podiatrist promptly for a diagnosis. Treatment usually involves staying off of your foot for a few weeks, icing the injury, and perhaps even wearing an ankle brace.

Gout

Gout is an inflammatory condition in which crystals of uric acid accumulate in the joints. The first symptoms are usually experienced in the top of the foot, particularly near the big toe. Gout is more common in older people and those who have a family history of the condition or are diabetic. The pain it causes usually comes on suddenly, but tends to be worse at night. Often, the foot will be red and hot when the soreness appears.

If you think you may have gout, speak to your physician. Treatments involve icing the joint and taking steroid medications to ease the pain and swelling. Many gout sufferers find that following a special diet, which is low in substances called purines, helps ease their symptoms.

If you're experiencing pain in the top of your foot, don't just ignore it. The information above will help you determine whether it's from gout, a stress fracture, or tendonitis – and then you'll have a better idea of how to treat it. For more information talk to a place like Family Foot & Ankle Physicians.