Tuesday, 13 August 2024 00:00

Causes of Pain in the Ball of the Foot

Pain in the ball of the foot, known as metatarsalgia, can stem from a variety of sources. High-impact activities like running or jumping can put excessive pressure on the metatarsal bones, leading to inflammation and pain. Wearing shoes that lack proper support or have high heels can also contribute to this condition. Other factors for metatarsal foot pain include foot deformities such as hammertoes or bunions, obesity, and medical conditions like arthritis or diabetes. A chiropodist can diagnose the underlying cause of metatarsalgia through a detailed examination and imaging studies. Relief may include custom orthotics to provide better arch support, or corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation. If you have pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for a diagnosis and treatment options. 

Foot pain can have many causes. To receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment for your foot pain, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Causes

There are a variety of different conditions that can cause foot pain, including: 

  • Plantar fasciitis

  • Deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes

  • Injuries to the muscles, bones, tendons, or ligaments in the feet

  • Arthritis

  • Flat feet

  • Ingrown toenails

Symptoms

The type and location of your foot pain can help determine what may be causing it and what type of treatment options are best for you. 

Common types of foot pain include: 

  • Heel pain

  • Arch pain

  • Toe pain

  • Ball of foot pain

  • Pain that has a stabbing, burning, or tingling quality

  • Pain that is constant, intermittent, or that gets better or worse depending on the situation 

Diagnosis

A thorough medical history and physical examination of your feet will be required to determine a diagnosis. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs may be performed to rule out or confirm certain diagnoses. 

Treatment

Treatment will depend on the cause of the pain. Common treatments for foot pain include resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot, wearing orthotics, or taking anti-inflammatory medications. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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