Metatarsalgia: Odd Name for Foot Pain

Metatarsalgia can sound like a foreign condition that won’t affect you; but, it actually can. It’s a foot complication that produces discomfort at the front or bottom of the metatarsal bones which are located at the ball of the foot. The discomfort worsens as you stand or move and can be described as stepping on tiny rocks.

Seven Causes of Metatarsalgia:

1. Engaging in high-intensity training or activities

2. High arches

3. Foot deformities including hammertoes and bunions

4. Excessive weight

5. Poorly fitting shoes

6. Foot fractures

7. Neuromas

Does it surprise you to know that high-heeled shoes put pressure on the metatarsal bone? Or the fact that obesity also places extra stress on the foot?

If that wasn’t worse enough, it’s also true that neuromas affect the nerves between the metatarsal bones as well. Severe trauma such as foot fractures may also place stress on the metatarsal bones. Lastly, diabetes has the ability to cause nerve damage in the feet, which has an impact on the metatarsal bones also.

Four Treatments for Metatarsalgia:

1. Using ice to reduce inflammation

2. Wearing protective wraps on the foot to lessen inflammation problems

3. Taking anti-inflammatories to diminish swelling and to reduce pain

4. Elevating the foot

Contact Tri County Foot & Ankle Centerat , at any one of our offices in Bayonne, Clifton, Colts Neck, East Brunswick, Jersey City, Kearny, and Randolph, New Jersey. Our podiatrists will identify the cause of your Metatarsalgia, help to put an end to that contributing cause and provide effective treatment to eliminate it from your feet altogether. Please make an appointment by calling our office.