The term Metatarsalgia is used to describe pain and inflammation in the ball of your foot. It is thought of as a symptom of other conditions rather than as a specific disease. The symptoms can be pain such as a sharp, burning sensation on the bottom of your foot. You may even feel like you’re stepping on a pebble. The pain is worse when you walk or run and you may feel numbness or tingling of the toes. It commonly occurs from dropping of the metatarsal bones along with pronation and weakening of the ligaments and muscle structures. The pain usually occurs over a period of a few months, rather than suddenly. The pain of metatarsalgia occurs from too much pressure on one spot in your foot. Almost anyone can develop metatarsalgia but you are at higher risk if you participate in high impact sports. Wear high heeled shoes, are overweight, or have inflammatory arthritis. If you have other foot problems such as calluses on the bottom of your foot or hammertoe, or if you have a high arch.
What can we do?
● We can assess what is causing the pain and treat accordingly.
● We can measure you up for custom made orthotics to reduce the pressure and relieve the pain.
● We can suggest stretching and strengthening exercises.
How To Ease Them
● Rest your foot, elevate after standing or walking. Avoid high impact exercises so as not to stress the foot more.
● Ice the ball of your foot for about 20 minutes at a time.
● Wear comfortable shoes that fit properly.
● Use metatarsal pads placed into shoes for support.
● Consider using shock absorbing insoles or arch supports to prevent future problems and to minimize the stress on the metatarsal bones.