I'm feeling a little discouraged right now. I've had foot pain for a while, so I finally went to see a podiatrist. She tells me I have a neuroma, which is roughly equivalent to having carpal tunnel syndrome of the foot.

Actually, she says I have it in both feet, but only one is causing me any pain right now. We're working to compensate for the problem, but in the meantime I'm feeling a little discouraged at the diagnosis. We discussed the type of workouts I'm doing, and she says it's fine to keep up my exercising during treatment, but I have this illogical fear that it will only make my feet worse. I guess I could use a hug and some encouragement not to give in to my fears.

Please don't suggest that I switch to non-weight-bearing workouts for a while. I know it's a good idea, but going to the gym or the pool isn't practical for me right now, and I can't afford an exercycle or other equipment.

<<<<HUGS>>>> From me to you!!! Hang in there sweets!! It will be ok!! :-)

Hi Margarita! I've got one of those pesky little s too, so here's your . Like you, I wasn't told to change my workouts at all and haven't - still do the same exercise for the same amount of time. A cortisone shot didn't do much for me but orthotics have helped a great deal.

I don't think neuroma's get worse with exercise - but excess weight definitely gets worse without exercise! Maybe just stick with your usual routine and see what happens?

- hope you get some relief soon!

Keep with the eating plan, as I think exercise adds to, but is not responsible soley for success (pun intended!). How about going to a second-hand shop and buying a regular bicycle? You could get some movement in and have fun too!

Thanks for the support, everyone. Your encouragement is making me feel a little braver about the whole thing.

Orthotics have been shown to be very effective in decreasing pressure on the ball of the foot - and reducing neuroma pain. See a podiatrist.