Managing the Pain of Metatarsalgia
Metatarsalgia is the word that your podiatrist uses to refer to pain on the bottom of the foot, usually between the arches and the toes. It’s called metatarsalgia because the pain is usually centered on the five bones behind the toes – the metatarsals.
Everyone can get metatarsalgia, although there are some factors that increase your risk:
high-impact court sports such as basketball and tennis
high-heeled shoes, which increase the load on the ball of the foot
atypical foot anatomy, including high arches or a second toe that is longer than the first
foot deformities such as bunions or hammertoes
excess weight or obesity
conditions such as gout or arthritis that can cause foot pain
The pain of metatarsalgia is described in different ways by different people. Some report a sharp pain. Others complain of throbbing, aching, numbness, tingling, or even a feeling like there is a pebble in their shoe. There may or may not be bruising, swelling, or inflammation present.
Any time you experience foot pain, the first step to take is a call to your foot doctor’s office. With years of specialized training and experience, your board-certified podiatrist is the best-qualified medical professional to diagnose and treat your issue. Depending on the cause and severity of your metatarsalgia, your podiatrist will have numerous treatment options at his or her disposal, including:
custom orthotics for cushioning and support
over-the-counter and prescription medications for pain and swelling
immobilization with a cast or boot
new footwear
Contact James C. Ricketti, DPM and let us address all your foot and ankle needs. Our board-certified podiatrist will tailor treatments based on your individual needs and with our state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options, we’ll help you get back on your feet in no time! Call our office today at 609-587-1674 to make an appointment at our conveniently located Hamilton, NJ office.