Not sure what to call this! Foot pain.

[Justkoko]

Its very difficult to explain. A sharp pain between my 1st and 2nd metatarsal occasionally when my foot has flexed 'wrong' when I am walking. I've noticed it when wearing my vans and converse. It bloody hurts. Is it just age? Or the wrong shoes?

I don't know if I am flexing my foot differently to accommodate the width of the vans toe box and the narrowness of the converse ones.

I just need to know what need to think of when choosing shoes as I want to look after my feet and keep them strong. I'm always barefoot at home.
Do I choose a firm sole or a very flexible sole? I was looking at loafers and some older ones I have weren't helping with this as they have a fairly solid rubber sole which doesn't give much so I am kind of gripping on with my toes. I need a higher vamp perhaps.

Any advice much appreciated.

This picture pretty much shows it.

You need to go and see a podiatrist to see what the problem is.

Could be plantar fasciitis, fallen arches, flat feet, arthritis, a muscle injury, a problem with gait related to your ankles, a small big toe.. the options are pretty endless.

As a general rule supported arches and a rigid sole is useful for most people. But a proper diagnosis is important. There are exercises and treatment that can stop it getting worse.