Metatarsalgia is a generalized, not a specific, diagnosis. It refers to forefoot pain (ball of the foot) that can be caused by a number of underlying causes.
Most, but not all, of the causes of forefoot pain relate to the soft tissues. For those that are objectively observable, such as with bone injury or toe length, the solution to becoming more comfortable and more functioning are similar to that of soft tissue dysfunction – take pressure of the front part of the foot while providing support and optimal foot motion.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Metatarsal strain
- Ball of the foot pain
- Sesamoiditis
- Capsulitis
- Fat pad loss
Symptoms:
- Burning or cramping pain associated with weight bearing and relieved with rest
- Callusing on the ball of the foot
- Tenderness with palpation of the ball of the foot
Signs to look for:
- Callusing on forefoot
- Morton’s Toe/Foot Syndrome
- Loss of forefoot fat pad
Possible Causes:
- Loss of forefoot fat pad
- Arthritis
- Morton’s Toe/Foot Syndrome
- Short toes (Brachymetatarsia
- Sesamoiditis
- Traumatic injury
Goals:
- Obtain diagnosis
- Take pressure off forefoot
- Restore optimal foot motion
- Move foot forward with as little lateral movement as possible
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotics exercising support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotics exercising support
Shoes:
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank
- Smart footwear, such as heel to toe rocker, negative heel shoes or shoes with titanium springs
- If regular flip-flop wearer, wear only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
- Go barefoot on a minimal basis only
- Wear pumps or heels on a minimal basis only
Other:
Use ball of foot gel pad if the arch supports do not provide enough relief (in conjunction with arch supports – not independent of them)
Activities:
- Where cause is from traumatic injury, refrain from weight bearing recreational activities until symptoms recede
- Rotate weight bearing exercises, such as walking or jogging, with non-weight bearing exercising, such as swimming or bicycling
- Regular callus filing with pumice device
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2007-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: Foot.com Text: A. Decker, S. Albert, Contemporary Pedorthics, I. Alexander, The Foot: Exam & Diagnosis