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Treatment-resistant functional hallux limitus ?

I was diagnosed with functional hallux limitus after years of various foot and ankle conditions (plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, Morton's neuroma and other tendonitises). My podiatrist prescribed new orthotics with the conventional accommodation (reverse Morton's extension and first ray cutout) for this problem. They have a polypropylene shell, metatarsal pad, and 3mm padded topcover. However, I can't seem to tolerate it. Compared to my previous orthotics, the new ones actually make the pain much worse. I have followed the prescribed break-in period (actually, even more gradual than recommended) and still I cannot wear the orthotics for more than an hour or two for more than a couple of days in a row before I have burning pain in my feet, ankles, and radiating up into my leg muscles that takes 3 or 4 days of not wearing the orthotics to resolve. I am diligent with stretches and use ice for the pain (can't tolerate NSAIDS due to stomach issues), but it doesn't help. It has been over a month of trying. My podiatrist is mystified as to why the accommodation is making me worse.

I am a 31 year-old female, not overweight, and am moderately active (though less so now due to pain) in low-medium impact activities. I put the orthotics in good quality, supportive shoes. I have seen numerous practitioners over the years, and the only thing they agree on is that my injuries often do not resolve in a typical manner, and that "gold standard" treatments often don't work for me the way they should.

Any ideas that I might try? I am getting desperate and nobody can help me.

3289 day(s) ago

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