Here are a few common factors and their symptoms that contribute to top of foot pain:
Morton's Neuroma - This is an acutely painful inflammation of the small nerves in the front of the foot. Usually between the third and fourth toes. It causes tingling, numbness and/or pain. The pain is especially noticeable if you squeeze the front part of the foot from side to side.
Tendonitis - An irritation of a muscle tendon that attaches to the bone. Apply an ice pack, rest the foot and regularly rub in anti-inflammatory gel. The tendon will usually heal in a matter of days.
Lump on top of foot - A dorsal exostosis is a bony bump on top of the foot. It can often become irritated and painful. Apply an ice pack for 30 mins. Remove it for 30 mins and then re-apply for 30 mins for as long as you need in a 24 hour period. Elevate the foot while applying the ice pack if you have swelling.
Ganglions - Sacs of jelly-like fluid that develop following a leak in the joint capsule, commonly form on the top of the foot, and can also contribute to top of foot pain.
Metatarsal Stress Fracture - Pain in one of the long thin bones that runs along the top of your foot and attaches to your toes. You may notice swelling and some redness and it's very painful to the touch. Usually affects runners and athletes who may have over done it while training. Press along the shaft of the bone toward the outside and then toward the inside and you will feel stabbing pain. See a podiatrist right away for an X-ray.
As you can see there are many factors that can contribute to pain in top of foot. Since many conditions affecting the top of foot can worsen if left untreated, visit your podiatrist as soon as possible for correct diagnosis and treatment.