Metatarsalgia

Metatarsalgia is a condition characterized by pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot.

It is a common foot problem that can affect people of all ages and activity levels. The following are the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for Metatarsalgia:

Causes: Metatarsalgia can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Poorly fitting shoes that put pressure on the metatarsal bones.
High-impact activities that put excessive stress on the feet, such as running or jumping.
Excess weight or obesity, which can put increased pressure on the feet.
Certain foot deformities, such as high arches or hammertoes, which can cause an uneven distribution of weight on the feet.
Inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis, that can cause inflammation and pain in the ball of the foot.
Symptoms: The main symptom of Metatarsalgia is pain in the ball of the foot. The pain may be described as sharp or dull and can be worsened by standing, walking, or running. The affected area may also feel tender to the touch, and there may be swelling or inflammation.

Treatment: The treatment of Metatarsalgia depends on the underlying cause of the condition. The following are some of the treatment options:

Rest and ice: Resting the affected foot and applying ice can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Footwear modification: Wearing shoes with a wider toe box and good arch support can help redistribute pressure on the foot and alleviate symptoms.
Custom orthotics: A podiatrist may recommend custom orthotic devices to help correct foot deformities and redistribute pressure on the foot.
Physical therapy: A physical therapist can recommend exercises to strengthen the muscles in the foot and improve foot mechanics.
Medications: Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
Mobilsation: Mobilisation of various joints and soft tissues might be beneficial dependent on the underlying cause of the metatarsalgia.
Injection therapies: Injections such as prolotherapy/hydrodilatation or cortisone can be indicated for metatarsalgia.
Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct foot deformities or alleviate pressure on the metatarsal bones.

In summary, Metatarsalgia is a painful foot condition that can be caused by a variety of factors. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause of the condition and may include rest, footwear modification, custom orthotics, physical therapy, medications, or surgery. A podiatrist can provide personalised care and support to help manage symptoms and promote healing.