Q: What treatments or medications are available for chronic foot pain?

A: Treatment of chronic foot pain depends on the underlying cause. Some conditions, such as bunions, may require surgery to correct the problem.

If the foot pain is caused by inflammation or arthritis, there are several medications that may help. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, decrease inflammation and relieve mild to moderate pain. For more advanced inflammation, your doctor may prescribe corticosteroids either as a topical cream or an oral tablet. Topical analgesic creams that are available without a prescription may provide relief. If your foot pain is related to a medical condition such as gout, osteoporosis, or rheumatoid arthritis, your doctor may prescribe medication specifically for these conditions.