Foot & ankle care
Metatarsalgia – Forefoot Pain
Pain in the ball of the foot with many possible causes — a careful assessment is the key to correct treatment.
About this condition
Metatarsalgia is a term for pain beneath the metatarsal heads in the ball of the foot. Causes range from fat-pad atrophy and high arches to stress fractures and nerve irritation. Because the causes differ so widely, an accurate diagnosis comes first.
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Common signs & symptoms
- Burning or aching pain in the ball of the foot
- Worse when standing or walking on hard surfaces
- Pain that eases when sitting
- Numbness or tingling between the toes
How we approach treatment
- 1Careful clinical and imaging assessment
- 2Footwear and orthotic modification
- 3Rehabilitation of strength and movement
- 4Surgical options for specific, confirmed causes