Ball of Foot Pain
Pain in the ball of your foot also known as metatarsalgia, is a medical condition that is often dismissed as a common malady. Every step taken causes the toes on the ball of your foot to be pushed forward. When proper steps are not taken to ensure that the toes are properly supported, this can cause injury or inflammation in the ball of your foot.
Metatarsalgia is not a disease, but merely a symptom. It can be an indication of an underlying foot injury or a sign wear and tear. It is important that you consult a podiatrist if ball pain becomes persistent.
Possible causes of metatarsalgia
1. The protective fatty padding on the ball of the foot is destroyed or becomes thin
2. People with naturally high arches
3. Inflammatory joint disorders like arthritis
4. A condition called Morton's Neuroma, which affects the nerves in-between your toes
5. A forefoot problem known as Metatarsal Synovitis. It is an irritation of your joint capsule on a particular metatarsal joint
6. Sesamoiditis condition
7. Stress fracture that is related to repetitive injuries or over-used foot
8. Avascular necrosis, this condition will pave problem in the future when there is the presence of an abnormal parabolic curve on your metatarsal structure
There are self-help treatments that can be done to reduce pain or treat ball of foot pain. Below are simple steps on how to treat ball of foot pain.
· If you are in pain, it is best if you take a non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug such as ibuprofen to help ease the pain.
· Limit, if not totally eliminate walking barefoot. Having shoes with the perfect soles will help in reducing pressure or stress on the foot.
· Maintain recommended weight. If you are overweight, it is best if you lose some pounds as it decreases your foot’s workload.
· Wear U-shaped gel callus pads which provides protection from painful metatarsal heads and calluses.
· Use of metatarsal pads and supports which will help reduce the pain when your metatarsal heads are placed back.
· Lifestyle and activities modification. These modifications include reducing the use of heels, walking on tiptoe, and squatting. It is also important that you decrease the amount of time walking, standing, and other activities that can result to additional stress and pressure in the ball of your feet.
If pain persist, schedule an appointment with your podiatrist to help avoid further complications and to eliminate your pain.
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.