Bump on your foot causing pain in heels or tight shoes
You are slipping into your favorite heels when a sharp pain shoots through the top of your foot. You glance down and notice a small, hard bump right where your shoe presses tightly; as a Houston podiatrist, this is common. That little bump? It’s likely a bone spur similar to a heel spur, but this is on top of your foot, and it may not be life-threatening; it can cramp your style and comfort.
We look further into what causes the pesky bumps, how to relieve the pain, and—importantly—how to get you back in those high heels pain-free.
What Exactly Is a Bone Spur at the Top of the Foot and Does It Hurt?
A bone spur is a small, bony growth that forms on top of an existing bone. These spurs develop near joints, such as the big toe, or in areas where the foot experiences repeated pressure or trauma.
Think of it like your body’s version of a callus—except instead of forming on your skin, it forms on your bone. While bone spurs are not dangerous, they can become a problem when they: Restrict joint movement (making it hard to bend your toe), rub against shoes (causing irritation and inflammation), and press on nerves (leading to sharp or aching pain)
For high-heel lovers, this is frustrating because when your big toe cannot extend fully due to that bony “doorstop”, every step in high heels becomes a painful battle against your anatomy.
Causes of Top-of-Foot Bone Spurs
Wondering how that bump appeared in the first place? Here are the usual suspects:
High Heels (Yes, Really)
Constantly forcing your toes into a cramped, elevated position stresses the joint, encouraging extra bone growth over time.
Arthritis
Wear-and-tear arthritis (osteoarthritis) often leads to bone spurs as your body tries to “stabilize” the degenerating joints.
Past Injuries
Even minor foot trauma (like stubbing your toe) can trigger spur formation as part of the healing process.
Biomechanical Issues
Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal gait patterns put uneven pressure on joints, prompting spur development.
“Do I Need Surgery?” Treatment Options for Bone Spurs
The good news? Not all bone spurs require surgery. Here’s how we tackle them at Deniel Foot & Ankle Center:
Anti-inflammatory meds – Reduce swelling and discomfort
Shoe modifications – Adjusting lacing techniques or opting for roomier styles
When Surgery Is the Answer (Chielectomy)
If conservative treatments fail—or if you’re desperate to wear heels again—a chielectomy might be your best bet. This procedure:
Removes the excess bone
Restores joint mobility
Requires zero downtime (you walk out same-day!)
Has most patients back in shoes within 3 weeks
Best of all, the annoying bump disappears for good.
Preventing Future Bone Spurs: 6 Podiatrist-Approved Tips
While you can’t always prevent spurs, these habits dramatically lower your risk:
Heel moderation – Save sky-high stilettos for special occasions.
Supportive footwear – Choose shoes with arch support and a roomy toe box.
Joint-friendly diet – Calcium and vitamin D keep bones strong.
Healthy weight – Less pressure = happier feet.
Prompt injury care – Don’t ignore foot pain—early treatment prevents problems.
Custom orthotics – Corrects biomechanical issues before they cause spurs.
“How Do I Know If It Is a Bone Spur?”
Not all foot bumps are bone spurs. If you notice:
A hard, immovable lump on top of your foot
Pain when bending your toe
Redness/swelling after wearing tight shoes
Difficulty fitting into footwear
…it is time to see our Houston podiatrist. We will confirm the diagnosis with X-rays and create a personalized treatment plan.
Conclusion: You Do Not Have to Live with Foot Pain
Whether you are a heels enthusiast or want to walk without wincing, bone spurs don’t have to derail your life. At Deniel Foot & Ankle Center, we specialize in non-surgical solutions and minimally invasive procedures to get you back on your feet—comfortably and stylishly.
