Forefoot pain is often given the title of metatarsalgia. This is a non-descript term to describe a multitude of potential forefoot conditions.
What we really need to understand is why the ball of your foot hurts, what structures are involved and the most effective treatment options for you.
So what can forefoot pain be?
There are many different conditions that can cause forefoot pain, the most common include;
- Interdigital Neuritis/Morton’s Neuroma
- Bursitis
- Metatarsal Overload
- Plantar Plate Tears
- Sesamoiditis
- Hallux Limitus/Rigidus
What can aggravate forefoot pain?
- Footwear – Any footwear that is too tight around the forefoot can compress structures which can cause them to become painful.
- Joint arthritis – Arthritis can cause pain in the toe joints, as well as cause us to load our feet differently, which can cause pain elsewhere.
- Metatarsal overload – Biomechanical factors, or an avoidance gait pattern, can lead us to load certain joints/parts of the foot more than others.
- Calf tightness – If your calf muscles are tight, you may load the ball of the foot more
How do I know what it is?
A Podiatrist will be able to carry out a series of tests, palpate the area and take a thorough history to determine what tissues/structures are likely to be the cause of the problem.
By watching you walk on a treadmill and across a pressure plate, the Podiatrist will be able to monitor for any gait patterns that may be predisposing you to the issue at hand.
What can be done for the pain?
Dependent on the condition, forefoot pain can be treated in various ways, such as:
- Orthoses
- High Power Dolorclast Laser Therapy
- Taping Techniques
- Foot Mobilisation Techniques
- Injection Therapy
- Surgery
There is no need for forefoot pain to get you down! See our expert Podiatrists at Active Step to find out what we can do for you. Get in touch here
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