Can i play football with arthritis?

Very painfull toes after exercise(football, running, etc). Also on middle of my feet around arches?

• During and after i exercise in a way that involves running i get a sharp pain in almost all of my toes , and often the arches of my feet start to hurt as well. Its very annoying and kind of ruins lots of activities like football with my friends even though i play anyways. I don't really know why. I am only 15 and i know i dont have arthritis, im in good shape, no medical problems other than epilepsy. I do wear these inserts i got from my doctor that were for my irritated growth plates in my heel. Even though that problem is passed it makes me like an inch taller so i use them anyways. I dont think this is the problem but could it be? If it doesnt sound like it should i go to a doctor to figure out why i have this problem?

• Answer:

  Plantar Fasciitis is the medical term for inflammation in the tissue of the bottom of the foot. The inflammation is most commonly caused by overuse (professional such as waitresses, teachers, cashiers, and construction workers who are on their feet all day are especially prone) or overexertion (common in runners, dancers, and other athletes). Sufferers of Plantar Fasciitis most often feel pain in the heel, which can be anywhere from a dull ache to a sharp, stabbing pain. The condition can progress into numbness in the foot and/or a burning sensation. The inflammation may eventually cause heel spurs to develop, causing even more pain. The plantar fascia tissue contracts (shortens) when your feet are inactive for a long period of time. As a result, the pain of Plantar Fasciitis is most commonly felt in the morning, while taking the first steps of the day. Allowing feet to relax and move freely at night can minimize the shortening of the fascia tissue that leads to morning pain. Plantar fasciitis will come and go depending on your level of activity, i.e., if you are on your feet a lot (running, dancing, working as a cashier, etc), if you go barefoot a lot, or if you wear poorly fitting shoes. You could get some ongoing relief by raising the blankets off your feet at night. The pressure of bed covers on your feet while you're sleeping can make plantar fasciitis worse, especially when you first wake up in the morning. You'd be surprised how much better your feet feel when they have room to move at night. Check out the website below for more information.