Pain in the ball of the foot or Metatarsalgia refers to painful metatarsal heads. The condition usually develops as a result of excessive pressure over a long period of time.

Metatarsalgia involves pain and inflammation in the padding below your toes. This is the area where your foot experiences the most pressure while standing and moving. Small nerves run between the metatarsal bones. The head of one metatarsal pressing against another can pinch the nerve in between which can become inflamed. This leads to metatarsalgia. Weight bearing activities can worsen symptoms.

Symptoms include burning or shooting pain, or a sharp ache, accompanied by tingling or numbness in the toes. This can affect the area near the toes and the ball of the foot.

Causes of metatarsalgia include –

• Tight shoes or high heels
• A high foot arch or a second toe that is longer than the big toe
• Being overweight
• High impact exercise
• Stress fractures
• Stiff ankle
• Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or gout
• Diabetes
• Morton’s neuroma

Treatment options involve unloading pressure to the ball of the foot. This can be done by wearing comfortable shoes with wide toe box, custom orthotics and rest. Consult a podiatrist for custom-made foot orthotics that can support your foot and provide adequate cushion to your toes and heel.

If you are looking for the best foot orthotics treatment or foot doctor in Phoenix and Scottsdale, Arizona, call Oasis Foot and Ankle Clinic at 602-993-2700 Now. Oasis Foot and Ankle Centers offer cutting edge surgical and nonsurgical treatments for foot and ankle conditions and injuries.