Pain in the ball of the foot, known as metatarsalgia, can result from various factors. One common cause is excessive pressure from wearing ill-fitting shoes, which compress the forefoot and lead to discomfort. High-impact activities and sports can also contribute to pain by putting repetitive stress on the metatarsal bones. Additionally, conditions such as bunions or Morton’s neuroma can cause localized pain and swelling. Inflammatory conditions like arthritis and tendinitis can increase discomfort in the ball of the foot. Additionally, flat feet or high arches can alter foot mechanics, adding pressure on the metatarsals. Managing this pain involves choosing supportive footwear, adjusting activity levels, and seeking medical advice from a podiatrist to address underlying conditions. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose what is going on and provide treatment.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Columbus Podiatry & Surgery. Our podiatrists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bone Spurs
- Corns
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Ingrown Toenails
- Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
- Flat Feet
- Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
- And more
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Columbus, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
