Chester Herbalist

Corn or callus

Areas of hard, thick skin. Between the toes, corns may be soft and very painful. Try toe spacers and toe sleeves from the drugstore. If the corn or callus does not go away, it may need to be thinned by a foot doctor.

Bunion

A painful bump at the outer edge of the big toe, where the toe joins the foot. Wear soft shoes with extra room in the toe box. You can also try over-the-counter pads. In severe cases surgery can correct the deformity.

Hammertoe

A bone deformity in which a toe bends to the side. A simple cotton roll called a crest pad, or a gel-filled pad, can help. If finding a comfortable shoe becomes a problem, surgery may be necessary.

Morton's neuroma

A growth in the ball of the foot that causes a sharp, burning pain between the third and fourth toes. Roomy shoes, an anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen, and arch supports may relieve the pain. If not, your doctor can inject steroids into the area.

Plantar fasciitis

An inflammation of the connective tissue that causes severe stabbing pain in the heel. Cut back on running, use heel pads and an anti-inflammatory, and stretch the soles of the feet. Try night splints to flex the feet while you sleep.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome Compression of a nerve that causes pain or numbness that starts in the heel and radiates to the toes. Rest, frequent icing, and anti-inflammatory drugs may help. But this condition can cause nerve damage, so call a doctor if the pain doesn't abate.

Metatarsalgia

A sharp or shooting pain and inflammation in the ball of your foot. Avoid sports, ice several times a day, and do toe lifts and stretches. Arch support and shock-absorbing foam insoles may prevent future problems.