Okay, I've posted here before but I am trying again. I am out of my mind not being able to run because of a mysterious foot problem that began about four years ago. After less than a half mile, I get profound, cry like a baby, cramping pain in my left foot. It is as if almost the entire lower foot is encased in a "charlie horse" cramp. I have now been to six podiatric specialists in Austin, have purchased 3 pairs of expensive orthotics, endured marcaine/alcohol injections between my toes to kill off neuromas, tried rolfing, deep tissue massage, and various stretches and exercises. Nothing has worked. I do not have plantar fascitis because the pain only occurs when I run and there is no sensitivity to touch the bottom of the foot or heel.
As for background, I was a collegiate distance runner (cross-country, steeplechase, mile, two mile) in the early 70s and ran lots and lots of marathons and 10ks from then until the late 90s when I started running for the sheer joy of feeling well. But in my 20s and 30s I was a pretty consistent 100 mile a week guy. I also have flat feet. I am 55. Anyone have any ideas or know who the greatest and smartest foot person in America might be? I am desperate.