Question
I woke up 2 days ago with some pain between my 4th and 5th toe, about halfway up the left foot. I went to my chiropractor and she noticed my 4th metatarsal had dropped. I pronate excessively on my left foot (I pronate on both feet but the left is worse) and have been having issues with a tight left piriformis and tight peroneals. The area on my foot is very tender to the touch. Can this ever be fixed so I can walk without pain? I do not have orthodics but know I should get some.

Answer
Hi Mary,

If you have developed recent pain in your toes, you should have an x-ray and exam by a Podiatrist.  Typically, we don't see metatarsals falling suddenly unless an injury has occured.  You should be checked for a stress fracture or a condition known as Morton's neuroma.
See below:
http://www.thetampapodiatrist.com/document_disorders.cfm?id=136
Since you pronate, you likely have an abnormal walking and weight-bearing pattern.  This may cause various foot deformities and pain.  Custom orthotics are certainly a good idea to help realign your feet.

Hope that helps and good luck.

Sincerely,

Marc Katz, DPM
Tampa, FL
Advanced Podiatry
www.thetampapodiatrist.com
www.tampacryosurgery.com
www.fix-my-foot.com