What is Metatarsalgia?
Metatarsalgia is a condition characterized by pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, specifically around the metatarsal bones. These are the long bones in the foot that connect the toes to the midfoot.
Causes Of Metatarsalgia
As metatarsalgia is a broad term describing pain in the forefoot, there may be many sources of pain in this region. The podiatrist will then perform a thorough physical examination to determine the structures involved and identify the source of your pain.
Metatarsalgia may be related to:
- Joint inflammation
- Nerve compression or aggravation
- Plantar plate (ligament) tear
- Bursitis
- Bone stress injury
- Arthritic conditions
Contributing factors may include:
- Increase of intensity or duration of physical activity
- Foot structure and function – the shape of our bones and joints, as well the way they move, can contribute to altered loading in the forefoot
- Footwear – poorly fitting footwear (too narrow through the forefoot) or footwear that is worn out can also alter loading through the forefoot.
Prevention
To prevent metatarsalgia, it’s important to wear properly fitting shoes with adequate support and cushioning, avoid high heels or shoes with narrow toe boxes, maintain a healthy weight as well as gradually increase the intensity and duration of physical activity to avoid overuse injuries.
Treatment for metatarsalgia aims to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and also address underlying contributing factors.
Are you suffering from any foot condition? At The Chelsea Clinic, we can help. One of our podiatrist can assist and then recommend what treatments are best to get you back on track. Podiatrist South Kensington
Schedule an appointment here or you may call us at +44 (0) 207 101 4000.
We hope you have a feetastic day!
-The Chelsea Clinic and Team
Learn more about Fungal Nails
