Understanding Ball of Foot Pain
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Ball of foot pain, also known as metatarsalgia, is a condition characterized by pain and inflammation in the metatarsal region of the foot.
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This pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including overuse, ill-fitting footwear, high-impact activities, and underlying conditions such as Morton’s neuroma or stress fractures.
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Symptoms often include sharp or aching pain, swelling, and a feeling of having a pebble in your shoe. Proper diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment, as the specific cause of the pain will determine the best course of action.
Treatment for Ball of Foot Symptoms
Thorough Assessment
We will begin by thoroughly evaluating your foot to determine the cause of your pain. This could be due to conditions such as Morton’s neuroma, stress fractures, or a sesamoid injury. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial to developing an effective treatment plan. Our medical team will utilize advanced imaging such as X-Ray and Diagnostic Ultrasound to ensure a specific diagnosis and subsequent treatment plan.
Personalized Treatment Plan
Based on the evaluation, we may recommend one or more of the following treatments:​
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Rest your foot- Protect your foot from further injury by avoiding activities that stress it.
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Apply ice packs to the affected area for about 20 minutes at a time.
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Over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or ibuprofen (Advil®) can help manage pain.
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Wearing the right shoes is essential. Athletic shoes, rocker-soled shoes, or shoes with soft insoles or metatarsal pads are often recommended.
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Gentle stretching exercises for your feet and ankles can help ease pain, increase strength, and improve flexibility. Warming up before engaging in activities can also enhance your range of motion and prevent further injury.
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A podiatrist may apply padding or strapping to the affected area to relieve pressure and reduce friction, providing immediate relief and preventing further discomfort.
Corticosteroid Injections
If painkillers aren’t helping to control the pain, your healthcare professional may discuss having a corticosteroid injection into your foot. Please realize, injections will not cure the condition, it will only help to reduce the symptoms.