Horrible toe cramp/pain! it feels like something is trying to come through my skin. i massage it and it just doesn't go away? is this a nerve problem?

Could be: Sometimes, a nerve gets pressed between two bones of the foot and this is called a morton's neuroma. Other causes could be your foot wear, muscle spasm due to electrolyte problems or a strain of the ligaments in the foot. You should see your doctor to determine the cause and help with treatment.

Neuritic pain: You describe the severe pain due to an irritated nerve. Dead nerves do not hurt. Irritated nerves give off impulses that can be very annoying (dysesthesia). Small neuromas can develop on the nerves of the foot that can produce the symptoms you describe. A good podiatrist should be able to help you.

Another possibility: Cramps most commonly occur when a muscle is used beyond its endurance capacity. In an attempt to prevent the muscle from being used any further, the muscle locks up to prevent ripping or tearing. You need to figure out what she is doing to overuse the foot muscle and avoid overuse. Additionally, an endurance building exercise should be started to prevent this in the future.