If you are experiencing foot pain or inflammation in the ball of your foot, you may have metatarsalgia. This condition is especially prevalent in physically active individuals as it may be caused by repeated impact on the ball of the foot while running and jumping. Many people who work on ladders tend to develop this condition as well.
Symptoms you may experience from this condition can include:
- Sharp pain or a dull ache just behind the toes on the ball of the foot.
- Pain that worsens while walking, running or jumping and improves when at rest.
- Numbness, sore feet or pain in the toes.
- Pain in the feet that worsens when barefoot.
There is occasionally one singular cause for metatarsalgia, however it is typically caused by several factors, including:
- Improper foot alignment
- Improper walking mechanics
- Unusual foot shape
- Hammertoe Syndrome
- Intense training and activity
- Bunions
- Excess weight
- Tight fitting footwear
- Morton’s Neuroma
- Stress fractures
Often pain in the foot can be healed with a day or two of rest, some ice and over the counter pain medication. However, if your pain is severe or ongoing, it may be time to visit one of our Chiropodists/Foot Specialists. Other treatment options include modification of footwear or custom foor orthotics (custome insoles), and use of metatarsal pads and arch supports.
Contact us today to see how we can alleviate your forefoot pain caused by metatarsalgia.