Metatarsalgia Treatment

Metatarsalgia is a common overuse injury described as pain in the ball of the foot (forefoot).It commonly occurs in the area where the second, third and fourth toes meet to form the ball of the foot (the metatarsal heads).

What are the symptoms?

Metatarsalgia causes pain in the ball of your foot that can be worsened by walking or running. There maybe accompanying “burning” or “tingling” due to nerve interference. The intensity of the pain varies from mild to severe. Symptoms include shooting pain in the toes, tingling or numbness around the toes, and worsening pain when weightbearing. The symptoms usually develop gradually over a period of months rather than coming on all of a sudden.  Many describe the pain as a “stone bruise” sensation.

What can cause Metatarsalgia?

There are a number of different causes, anything that adds extra strain or pressure to the ball of the foot can lead to pain in the ball of the foot. Poorly fitting footwear such as narrow, high heeled shoes which force the foot into a small space, can cause the condition. Certain foot types increase risk of metatarsalgia , for example, a narrow, high arched foot where pressure is great on the front part of the foot. Athletes who take part in high-impact sports involving running or jumping have an increased risk of forefoot problems. Being overweight also increases pressure on the foot. As we age the protective ‘fat pad’ that sits over our metatarsal heads for protection begins to displace and wear thin, leaving the bones more exposed to pressure. Wearing inappropriate footwear and continuing with high-impact sports will worsen symptoms. Avoiding activity that places high pressure on the forefoot is very important. Continued high pressure on the forefoot may lead to stress fractures of the metatarsals.

What the Podiatrists at Chesterfield Podiatry can do for you.

Your Podiatrist will assess your feet and determine the appropriate treatment. Reducing levels of pressure over the area is essential and often avoiding certain types of activity for a period of time is necessary. Orthoses can be provided to improve the function of the foot and redistribute pressure to protect the ball of the foot. Cushioning silicone gel and offloading pads may also provide relief. Advice regarding appropriate footwear with good shock absorption is important.