What Is the Top of the Foot Called?

Symptoms of problems in the top of the foot can vary depending on the cause and may include: 

• Pain
• Swelling
• Stiffness that lasts a long time
• Bruising
• A lump along a tendon
• Grating or crackling sensation when moving the foot
• Red, hot, swollen skin
• Abnormal toe curling
• “Pins and needles” feeling or numbness

Within the foot there are muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, and nerves, all of which can be injured or not function properly, resulting in problems with the top of the foot. 

There are many different causes of problems with the top of the foot, such as: 

• Sprains 
• Strains
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Stress fractures
• Tendonitis
• Osteoarthritis 
• Lisfranc injury (also called Lisfranc fracture)
• Nerve problems 
• Medical conditions such as gout

The cause of problems in the top of the foot is diagnosed with a patient history and a physical examination of the foot. 

Depending on the suspected cause, tests may include: 

• X-ray
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
• Blood tests

Treatment for problems in the top of the foot depends on the cause. 

For many types of foot problems and foot pain, the RICE method can be used: 

• Rest: keep weight off the affected foot
• Ice: to decrease pain, swelling, and redness
  • Use an ice pack or ice wrapped in a towel
  • Apply crushed ice for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, several times daily
• Compression: to support the foot and prevent inflammation
  • Use elastic wraps such as Ace bandages
  • Do not wrap too tightly
• Elevation: prop up the affected foot to help reduce fluid buildup in the injured tissue
  • Elevate the foot above the level of the heart if possible

Other home remedies for problems in the top of the foot include: 

• Wearing roomy shoes with a low heel and soft sole
• Using soft insoles or pads inside the shoes
• Losing weight if overweight
• Gentle stretching exercises of the foot and ankle
• Taking acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) for pain
• Avoiding sports or other activities that may have caused the pain
• Not walking or standing for long periods
• Avoiding wearing high heels or tight or pointy shoes

If problems with the top of the foot cause severe pain or difficulty walking, treatment may include:

• Crutches
• Splint or cast if a bone is fractured
• Orthotics (prescription shoe inserts)
• Physical therapy
• Acupuncture
• Foot surgery (uncommon)