Preparing for an appointment

You'll either see your family doctor or general practitioner or be referred to a bone specialist (orthopedist) or a foot specialist (podiatrist).

Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment.

What you can do

Make a list of:

• Your symptoms, including any that may seem unrelated to your foot pain, and when they began
• Key personal information, including sports you participate in and your medical history
• Questions to ask your doctor

For metatarsalgia, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• What's causing my symptoms?
• Do I need tests?
• Is my condition likely temporary or chronic?
• What treatment do you recommend?
• Do I need to restrict my activities?
• Are there brochures or other printed material I can have? What websites do you recommend?

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you a number of questions, including:

• What type of shoes do you wear?
• What activities do you do?
• Does your daily routine involve a lot of walking or standing?
• Do you often go barefoot? On what types of surfaces?
• Are your symptoms continuous or occasional?
• How severe are your symptoms?
• What, if anything, seems to improve your symptoms?
• What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms?

What you can do in the meantime

While you're waiting to see your doctor, rest your foot as much as possible and wear properly fitting shoes. Over-the-counter pain relievers might help ease your discomfort.