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Metatarsalgia is a painful condition that affects the ball of your foot. At Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle, our team of expert podiatrists can diagnose and treat this common issue to help improve your mobility and reduce pain. Let us help you get you back to making the most of each day.
Causes of Metatarsalgia
Metatarsalgia pain usually develops gradually over several months rather than suddenly. Several different factors can increase your risk of developing the condition, including:
Ill-fitting shoes.
Wearing ill-fitting shoes is one of the most common causes of metatarsalgia, as it puts extra pressure on the forefoot area.
Athletic training.
Athletes who engage in high-impact exercises while also suffering from an inflammatory illness such as bursitis may experience more widespread discomfort in the ball and center of the foot.
Overpronation.
When someone overpronates during walking or running, it puts increased strain on the joints and muscles in the foot, which can lead to metatarsalgia.
Injury.
An injury to any part of the foot due to trauma or overuse can lead to metatarsalgia.
Weight.
Your weight can be a significant factor when it comes to the risk of developing metatarsalgia. Excessive weight places additional stress on the feet, which can lead to pain and discomfort in the metatarsal area.
Foot anatomy and deformities.
Your foot anatomy can affect your risk of developing metatarsalgia. Certain conditions, such as high arches or fallen arches, may put more pressure on the metatarsal bones.
Symptoms of Metatarsalgia
Metatarsalgia is characterized by pain at the ends of one or more metatarsal bones. Those are the bones closest to your toes in the ball of your foot. Sharp discomfort, a dull aching, or a burning sensation are all possibilities. You might feel as if you've stepped on a stone. When you walk or run, the discomfort is usually worse. In your toes, you may experience tingling or numbness.
If you are experiencing any of the following potential signs of metatarsalgia, you should seek the assistance of an experienced podiatrist:
Pain in the ball of your foot.
This is usually experienced as a burning or tingling sensation at the forefront of your foot.
Inflammation.
You may see swelling and tenderness in the ball of your foot, which can cause difficulty walking.
Sharp pains.
You may experience sharp shooting pain in the ball of your foot that worsens when you stand or walk for long periods of time.
How a Podiatrist Can Diagnose and Treat Metatarsalgia
Seeing a podiatrist is the best way to get a proper diagnosis of metatarsalgia. A podiatrist will assess your condition and rule out other potential causes of foot pain. When you visit Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle, one of our podiatrists will perform a physical exam to check your feet and ankles for signs of metatarsalgia. We may also use imaging tests like an X-ray or MRI to help assess the severity of your condition.
A treatment plan that is tailored to the individual is essential. Your podiatrist might recommend:
Orthotics.
Custom orthotics can help reduce pressure on the ball of your foot and provide cushioning for comfort.
Medication.
Over-the-counter or prescription medications may be prescribed to reduce swelling and relieve pain.
Surgery.
In severe cases, surgery may be required to realign the metatarsal bones.
Are You Suffering From Metatarsalgia In The Caldwell Or Meridian, Idaho Area?
If you're suffering from metatarsalgia you owe it to yourself to speak with our experienced podiatrists as soon as possible. Please feel free to contact us online or call our office directly at 208.855.5955 to schedule your appointment. We service all areas surrounding Meridian, Idaho as well as all areas in the Caldwell, Idaho area. We look forward to helping you!
