Pain on the Top of My Foot After Breaking in New Shoes
Greetings, I’m a 22-year-old woman and recently began working as a server, where I’m required to wear leather dress shoes. The pair I selected are faux leather loafers. I endured two consecutive 11-hour shifts right out of the box with them, which resulted in significant discomfort throughout my feet. However, there's a specific issue that has me worried: on my second day, I developed a noticeable pain on the top of my left foot. Although most of the general discomfort from the shoes has subsided after these two long days, this persistent pain on the top of my foot continues to trouble me. It even aches when I walk barefoot or wear more comfortable footwear. I’m quite concerned about this ailment. It alleviates somewhat when I rest or massage the area, yet it remains present since it first occurred. Could anyone shed light on what this might be? Would it be advisable to consult a doctor in person?
Answers (1)

8/15/2025, 9:21:54 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing persistent pain on the top of your foot after working long shifts in new shoes, which may be due to several factors including irritation from the shoes, strain from prolonged activity, or even mild inflammation. Let’s break down your concerns and provide some actionable steps.
Explanation
Wearing new shoes, especially for long hours without a break, can lead to foot pain as the shoes may not have conformed to your feet yet. The discomfort you're feeling on the top of your foot might be a result of pressure or friction against the shoe’s material or from structural issues like improper fit or muscle fatigue from long standing.
Next Steps
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Rest and Elevation:
- Take breaks when possible and elevate your foot to reduce any swelling and promote healing.
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Ice the Area:
- Apply ice wrapped in a cloth to the painful area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day to help reduce inflammation.
-
Gentle Stretching:
- Do gentle stretching exercises for your feet and calves to relieve tension. Simple stretches include pointing and flexing your toes or rolling your foot over a tennis ball.
-
Footwear Check:
- Avoid the new shoes for now until the pain subsides. Opt for well-fitting, supportive shoes with ample cushioning when you are on your feet.
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Pain Relief:
- If necessary, over-the-counter pain relief medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation. Ensure to follow the dosage guidelines.
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep track of the pain level and any changes. If the pain increases, persists beyond a week, or if you develop swelling, bruising, or difficulty moving your foot, it may be time to seek medical advice.
Conclusion
While many cases of foot pain from new shoes improve with self-care, it’s important to listen to your body. If symptoms do not improve or worsen, or if you experience any additional symptoms, consider consulting a healthcare professional for further evaluation. This could include a physical exam to ensure there's no underlying injury. Take care of your feet, and remember that proper fitting shoes are crucial for long hours of standing. Let me know if you have more concerns or questions!
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