Understanding Metatarsalgia

What Is Metatarsalgia?

Metatarsalgia is often the diagnosis for the pain that is felt around the ball of one’s foot.

The inflammation is localized to the end of the long bones in the midfoot, called the metatarsals.

What Are The Symptoms?

Metatarsalgia is pain around the ball of the foot when weight-bearing.

People describe their symptoms as achy, sharp or even a burning-type pain; a bruised feeling on the ball of the foot is also a very common complaint. Others also report the sensation of a small pebble in their shoe when walking.

Walking barefoot is usually more aggravating than when wearing a shoe, and the pain usually worsens the more one is on their feet. Rest and non-weight-bearing positions usually allow the pain to subside.

There are numerous potential underlying causes of metatarsalgia.

Some of the most common are listed below:

• People taking part in running or high impact
  (jumping sports have a higher frequency of metatarsalgia)
• A sudden increase in training intensity
• A high-arched foot
• Tight lower extremity musculature

• Poorly fit or worn out shoes
• Excessive wearing of high heels
• Overweight individuals
• Co-existing medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout

What Is The Treatment For Metatarsalgia?

• Custom Orthotics
• Inserting a metatarsal pad in your shoe
• Proper flexibility of lower extremity muscles
• Weight loss
• Managing other medical conditions

• Rest from the aggravating activity
• Anti-inflammatory through ice/medicine
• Minimizing time spent in bare feet
• Wearing proper footwear