Do you experience pain on the ball of your feet, just below your toes? Does it feel as though you’re walking on uncomfortable pebbles?
If these symptoms sound like the ones you’re experiencing, you might find that you’re suffering from Metatarsalgia.
What is Metatarsalgia?
Metatarsalgia is a general term, relating to any pain that is experienced in the ball of the foot. There are a number of factors that cause metatarsalgia:
- Sport. Sadly, one of the number one causes of metatarsalgia is running, or high-impact athletics. Continued stress on the ball of the foot can cause inflammation, which leads to pain. Sports that involve jumping, such as tennis or squash, can also contribute to the problem.
- Stilettos. Whilst undeniably lovely looking, high-heeled shoes are a major problem when it comes to foot pain. Continually wearing towering stilettos, or squeezing feet into shoes that are too narrow, can cause real issues with your feet; especially around the area below the toes (which takes the most pressure, whilst teetering in heels!)
- Foot deformities; such as bunions or hammer toe. If you suffer from a foot deformity, such as hammer toe, or bunions, this can lead to significant pain in the ball of your foot.
What to Do if You Think You Have Metatarsalgia.
The first thing to do if you suspect you might be suffering with metatarsalgia is to speak to an expert. A doctor will be able to examine your foot, or alternatively, you can book an appointment with Foot Solutions, who can provide a complete foot assessment and identify all problem areas.
Recovery: What Treatment to Expect
It is likely that you’ll be recommended the following courses of action:
- Wearing the correct shoes. Chances are that you’ll be advised on what suitable footwear to invest in, to help ease the pressure on the affected area. If you’re concerned about losing out on the glamour of fashionable shoes, then be reassured; many comfortable shoes are extremely fashion-forward!
- Orthotics. You may also find that your expert recommends some orthotics for you to use. Orthotics, quite simply, insert into your existing shoes, repositioning the foot into the correct position and easing pressure on the ball of the foot.
- Lifestyle. Your expert may also recommend some lifestyle changes, to help you to recover as quickly as possible. This could include; elevating the foot more often or taking a short break from running. These slight changes will help you to cope whilst the comfortable shoes and orthotics help reduce stress on the foot.
Don’t suffer in silence if you think you may have metatarsalgia. It is one of the most easily treated foot complaints, and a few simple adjustments to your lifestyle could help reduce the symptoms significantly.
Speak to one of the team at Foot Solutions to book your FREE foot assessment and receive some excellent advice on how to ease the pain of metatarsalgia.
