Question
Dr. Katz, I have been experiencing a puffiness in the ball of foot area below my second toe for about a year now. It does not hurt yet seems like something is there and some slight numbness. Thank you for your time.  

Answer
Hi Jerry,

There are a number of possible causes.  Sometimes the joints of the foot can have arthritis and cause swelling.  You may also get swelling of a tendon.  Also, a cyst or mass can also be the cause and these conditions may be pressing on a nerve causing numbness of the toes or foot.  There could also be a mass of the nerve or possible a condition known as a Morton's neuroma.

So, the bottom line is that there are many possibilities.

I would see a Podiatrist and have a foot exam.  You may require x-rays and an MRI.  This is likely not serious, but could be some type of mass that may be of concern.

So please see a Podiatrist as soon as you can.


Sincerely,

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