Metatarsalgia

Metatarsalgia is a painful inflammatory injury of the forefoot often the metatarsal ,it can sometimes feel as if you’re stepping on a stone. It’s common in athletes and those who enjoy the very active lifestyles of running, climbing, and hiking.

Causes

Metatarsalgia is usually caused by a combination of several factors.

These can include:

• Old age
• Stress Fractures
• Intense activity & training
• A high foot arch
• A second toe longer than the big toe
• Foot deformities such as Hammer toe & bunions
• Overweight & obesity
• Improper weight distribution on the foot
• Shoes lacking support & padding
• Shoes with a narrow toe box
• Nerve irritation

Symptoms & Identification

Metatarsalgia can be identified by a number of symptoms. Some of these symptoms are:

• Numbness & tingling of the toes
• Increased pain when on hard surfaces (asphalt, tiles, etc.)
• Stinging in the toes
• Feeling as if your stepping on a stone (stone bruise)
• Forefoot pain when you walk, run, or exercise
• Worsening pain when walking barefoot
• Inflammation & jabbing pain in the ball of your foot
• Drifting or contracture of the toes

Care & Treatment

In most cases of metatarsalgia  our clinicians will use simple treatments and care such as:

• Icing several times a day
• Taking Anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS)
• Resting & keeping foot elevated
• Wearing better fitting shoes
• Using orthotics or arch supports
• Ankle & Achilles tendon stretches

In more serious stages of metatarsalgia we may recommend that you are referred for an injection to minimize pain and inflammation, or we may refer you on for foot surgery if our other treatments were not effective.

If you believe you are suffering from metatarsalgia or a similar condition you should see one of our clinicians.

For more information about Metatarsalgia or to have an assessment or some treatment contact us by filling out the form below, emailing or calling us.