Houston, TX -- (Sports Network) - Houston Rockets center Yao Ming did not play in Wednesday's 96-86 loss against Dallas because of a left foot ailment.

Yao left in the fourth quarter of Monday's 100-89 win over Oklahoma City because of soreness in his left foot, and underwent diagnostic tests Tuesday that revealed no structural damage. He was being held out for precautionary reasons and is listed as day-to-day.

In 11 games this season, Yao has posted averages of 16.9 points and 9.5 rebounds.

Yao missed the final 26 games of last season after suffering a stress fracture in his left foot. The six-time All-Star has career averages of 19 points and 9.2 boards, but has not played in more than 57 games in any of the past three seasons.

Mavericks forward Josh Howard was also inactive for the game due to a left ankle injury he suffered in a 100-83 win at Charlotte on Tuesday.