Ball of Foot Pain
Pain in the ball of your foot, also known as metatarsalgia, is a common condition that affects the area just behind your toes. It can make everyday activities uncomfortable and may become worse the longer you're on your feet.
There are many possible causes of ball of foot pain, so it's important to identify the underlying problem before starting treatment. At Abbeyhill Footcare, we'll assess your symptoms and recommend the treatment that's right for you.
What causes ball of foot pain?
Ball of foot pain can develop for several reasons, including:
- Spending long periods standing or walking
- Running or high-impact sports
- Wearing shoes with poor support or high heels
- Changes in foot shape or biomechanics
- Morton's neuroma
- Arthritis
- Bunions or toe deformities
- Sesamoiditis
Finding the cause of your pain helps us recommend the most effective treatment.
Common symptoms
You may experience:
- Pain in the ball of your foot
- A sharp, burning or aching pain
- Pain that gets worse when walking or standing
- A feeling of walking on a pebble
- Numbness or tingling in the toes
- Swelling or tenderness in the front of the foot
How Abbeyhill Footcare Can Help
At Abbeyhill Footcare, we'll carry out a thorough assessment to understand what's causing your pain.
Depending on your symptoms, your treatment may include:
- Personalised rehabilitation exercises
- Footwear advice
- Orthotics to reduce pressure on the front of your foot
- Padding or offloading techniques to improve comfort
- Steroid injections for suitable conditions, where appropriate
- Diagnostic ultrasound referral if further investigation is needed
Our aim is to reduce your pain, improve your comfort and help you get back to your normal activities.
When should you see a podiatrist?
It's a good idea to book an appointment if:
- Your pain has lasted more than a couple of weeks
- Walking or standing is becoming uncomfortable
- You have numbness or tingling in your toes
- Your symptoms are getting worse
- Home treatments aren't helping
Early treatment can often help prevent your symptoms from becoming long-term.
FAQs
What causes pain in the ball of the foot?
Pain in the ball of the foot can be caused by overuse, poorly fitting footwear, changes in foot mechanics, arthritis, Morton's neuroma or inflammation around the joints.
Can ball of foot pain go away on its own?
Some mild cases improve with rest and supportive footwear, but ongoing pain should be assessed to identify the cause and prevent it from getting worse.
Can orthotics help ball of foot pain?
Yes. Orthotics can help spread pressure more evenly across your foot and reduce strain on the painful area.
Do I need a scan?
Not always. Most causes of ball of foot pain can be diagnosed during your appointment. If needed, we may recommend a diagnostic ultrasound referral for further investigation.
Are steroid injections available?
Steroid injections may be recommended for certain conditions affecting the ball of the foot, depending on the cause of your pain. Your podiatrist will discuss whether they're suitable for you.
When should I see a podiatrist?
If your pain is affecting your walking, daily activities or isn't improving after a couple of weeks, it's worth booking an assessment so you can receive the right treatment.