Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 9/7/2010

Question
Hi,

I have danced en pointe for around 2 years and i have always had pain, but only in my big toes. At first i thought it was just normal to feel pain but this pain comes after 10 minutes of doing exercises.
I changed my toe pads from wool to ouch pouches which hasn't helped at all. I've tried extra wool underneath which doesn't help either.
I have just bought new shoes which are the same make but a larger width- they definitely fit better but i still have the same problem.
Please help I don't want to stop pointe and have an exam soon!

Answer
Hi Katie. I'm assuming that the pain is at the end of the big toes, since that is where you have increased the toe padding - since there is no improvement, I can make a guess that the tissue in your toes is inflamed. It is also possible to bruise bone tissue.

However, probably only a sports/dance medicine experienced physio therapist can help you with this. Once you have completely recovered from the cause of the pain, you will likely be fine, providing your pointe shoes fit well.

So really I cannot give you a definite answer. But, here's something that can help.

You can ice your toe tips - with a small ice pack, make sure it is covered with a towel, and probably three - five minutes max will do. Icing should not feel painful.

The more frequently you do this, the more inflammation will reduce. Several times a day will be good.

But do see a professional practitioner, since we do not know the cause of the pain for certain.

Also, do exercises for your foot muscles to strengthen them, like toe swapping, doming and 'piano'. Any extra strength will keep pressure off your toes in pointe shoes.

http://balletshoesandpointeshoes.blogspot.com/2009/10/exercises-to-prepare-for-p...   here's an article that describes these foot   exercises.

All the best with this, and good luck with your exam!