Interesting thought as my foot pain began about three or four years ago when I was 43. Not menopausal yet, but I'd gladly welcome it!

I laid my pain to the effect of having to lose a bit of weight and pounding around on a ceramic kitchen floor all day in my socks. I have orthotics, helps some; but my real relief came when I bought a pair of clogs that have a raised heel. I wear those most of the day in the house and my feet feel better than they have in years. Getting the pressure off my heel with just a bit of a wedge has done wonders for me. I literally remember crying some nights because my feet hurt so. Now I'm at least enjoying life more and have become much more active because I feel so much better. I even run through parking lots now, (with my boots because there is so much snow) when I couldn't even walk fast before. I know your pain, it's a real bummer, isn't it?
On the flip side, my brother-in-law who is about 50, has the same pain. He's on his feet most of the day with his job, but he definitely is not overweight. I showed him the stretching exercises I did for awhile, (not sure if it really helped but I was willing to try anything).
[This message has been edited by Dianek (edited 02-24-2003).]