Metatarsalgia
Metatarsalgia is a general medical term that refers to pain in the ball of the foot in the metatarsal area, which is found at the base of the toes where they connect to the rest of the foot. The metatarsal bones run from the arch of the foot to the toe joints, and the first metatarsal (or big toe) is usually shorter and has thicker bones than the other four toes. The majority of metatarsal problems develop from abnormalities in the mechanics of weight distribution and the development of pressure points during weight bearing activities.
This condition may produce a sharp or aching pain in the ball of the foot that worsens during weight bearing activities such as standing, walking or running. There may also be pain in either the second, third, or fourth toes or near the big toe only; pain is usually isolated to one side of the foot or the other due to the fact that it is caused by unorthodox weight distribution. A numb, tingling, or shooting pain may occur in the toes and there may be the sensation of pebbles in the shoe when pressure is applied to the ball of the foot. Walking barefoot is likely to increase discomfort as well. Symptoms usually worsen gradually over time, though Metatarsalgia may also develop suddenly when there is a sharp increase in physical activity that increases pressure on the feet and lower limbs.
While some amount of discomfort in the feet is normal after walking or standing for extended periods of time pain that is acute or lasts more than a few days should be looked at by a doctor of podiatrist. Metatarsalgia can develop from intense physical activity (runners are particularly vulnerable), participation in high-impact sports, being overweight, wearing high heels and/or shoes that do not fit the foot well. This condition also frequently occurs in feet that have high arches, hammertoe, bunions, stress fractures, or Morton’s neuroma.
There are many cause of metatarsalgia not only because underlying medical conditions contribute to its development, but because it can also be caused by any activity or lifestyle choice that places excessive pressure on the ball of the foot. Conservative treatments therefore include rest, reducing intense physical activities, eliminating high-impact sports, using orthotic devices for foot and arch support, using shock-absorbing insoles, modifying footwear, applying ice to inflamed joints, and using metatarsal pads to cushion and protect the affected area.
If conservative treatments fail to relieve discomfort or remedy the situation your doctor may recommend the use of steroid injection at the site of the inflammation. While injections may provide temporary relief long-term steroid use has undesirable side effects. Likewise, foot surgery is usually reserved for severe cases where conservative, non-invasive treatments have failed to provide relief.
The best option of all is prevention, and choosing your footwear wisely is one of the primary ways you can reduce the risk of developing metatarsalgia in the first place. Using arch supports and insoles and maintaining a healthy weight will also help to safeguard the health of your feet, as will addressing discomfort as soon as it occurs. If you find you’re experiencing pain in the ball of your foot it’s best to reduce activities and begin conservative treatment of the area immediately.
Suzy Pickhall, who has been a foot care expert over the past thirty years has written a viable guide on how to combat Foot Nerve Pain , and a guide on Orthotics for Feet.