What is Metatarsalgia?
Metatarsalgia is a non-specific term for pain in the forefoot. It is a very common over-use injury and is very common in athletes of high-impact sports. These sports usually include a lot of running and jumping.
The primary symptom of metatarsalgia is pain at the ball of the foot. It usually becomes more painful when walking or running. The pain usually comes on slowly over the course of a few months.
The causes include:
-injury during sports
-biomechanic alteration that has caused an abnormal weight distribution
-persistent stress
Some factors that contribute to metatarsalgia include:
-weak toe flexors
-hammertoes
-tight achilles tendon
-tight toe extensors
-improper fitting footwear
-high levels of activity
-excessive pronation
-hypermobile first bone
-prominent metatarsal heads
Treatment for metatarsalgia includes:
-icing
-not putting weight on the foot
-metatarsal pads
-custom orthotics
-supportive shoes
If you have any pain in your forefoot and want to schedule an appointment with Dr. Brian Gale, DPM, FACFAS, Contact Us at 701-255-FOOT, or online to Appointment Request.
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