Foot spasms - locking toes - Foot Problems Message Board

bostonbeth · 04-13-2005, 11:03 AM

Hello -

I'm female, 25, and have genetic bunions that I treated with splints as a child but never had surgically repaired. They normally do not cause me discomfort unless I wear heels for an extended period of time.

Recently I have been experiencing intermittent foot spasms, that will occur perhaps once or twice a month or so in one foot or the other, never at the same time. Basically, I get a sharp pain in the area where the bones to the toes jut out and the 2 or 3 center toes will lock straight. I'm unable to bend or flex them or walk properly. I've found that by deeply massaging the foot and manually manipulating the locked toes seems to "unlock" them. I've also used a a cylindricular object (i.e. soup can) to roll my foot on, which can help. The spasms will last for 1-5 minutes and I never have any lingering pain afterwards.

I've found that these spasms tend to occur after I've been on my feet in heels for an extended period of time. Has anyone else experienced this and have any input? Obviously, wearing heels less frequently seems to be an option, but I'm curious what is causing it and if I may have an issue with compacting nerves etc.

Thank you.

sharonssorefoot · 04-13-2005, 11:25 AM

I just had a bunionectomy in January because my left foot was becoming so painful like you describe. I was having the spasms, cramps, burning pain 24/7 and had enough of it. I am 12 weeks post op and all pain is gone. It may be time to look into surgery. The bunions to affect the nerves. Look for a recuperation time of about 6 weeks and don't let a doc convince you otherwise. Read all the posts on these boards so that you will have an idea what to expect.
Sharon

anotherpatty · 04-14-2005, 06:37 AM

Hi,
I get that same thing and have for many years. In my case, it's due to various factors. A big one was foot neuromas. When I had surgery for them it entirely went away. However, six years later (now) the spasms/locking has returned very badly and my neuromas are back. I suggest asking your doctor about checking into that. I also have back problems which affect my feet in a similar way and I also have poor foot structure which also can contribute to it. I'm not familiar with the bunions as I never had those. I suggest asking your doctor about such things.

imhdab · 04-14-2005, 07:41 AM

I also had that same problem but with my big toe -- VERY painful. I have hallux rigidus in both feet and just had surgery on my left foot. I would talk with your doctor (and get a second opinion too, if surgery is suggested.)

Good luck!
~Heather

TerriC · 04-14-2005, 08:47 AM

I have these kind of foot spasms for years - waking up in the middle of the night with my toes contorted - and having to jump out of bed and walk it out - sometimes quickly and sometimes it took awhile. My GP said to take calcium with magnesium which did help - Tonic water with quinine also helps (gin added makes it better!) I also stopped wearing high heels. I did have one spasm which resulted in a charlie horse in my calf which did not release - I had to go to physical therapy for a month to get that spasm to release. My extremely flat feet have a lot to do with that. Good shoes, and listening to your body helps - I got to the point that I had a pretty good idea that if I did an extreme amount of walking that I would have issues. Good luck1