Foot Pain

Pain under the 'ball of the foot'

What causes foot pain?
There are many causes of foot pain, but when most people talk about foot pain they are describing symptoms that cause pain under the "ball of the foot." When foot pain occurs under the ball of the foot, the medical term is metatarsalgia.

There are many other causes of foot pain in other parts of the foot. If your symptoms are not under the ball of the foot, try the following resources to find an answer to your problem:

• Toe pain and bunions
• Arch pain
• Heel pain (underneath the heel)
• Posterior heel pain (behind the heel)

Metatarsalgia occurs in the region between the arch and the toes. The medical term for foot pain, metatarsalgia, comes from the name of the bones that are in this part of the foot: the metatarsals. The metatarsals are long bones at the base of each toe. Sometimes pressure on the ends of the metatarsal bones causes symptoms in the ball of the foot.

What problems cause the symptoms of foot pain?
Foot pain can be caused by increased pressure on the metatarsal heads. This can be due to constricting foot wear or high heel shoes. If you have pain under the ball of your foot, try wearing shoes that have a wider toe box.

Other conditions that can cause foot pain include ligament injuries and joint irritation. These problems can also be relieved with more accommodating footwear.

What treatments are available for foot pain?
Treatment of foot pain often consists of anti-inflammatory medications, footwear modifications, and inserts for your shoes.

When buying footwear, look for shoes with a wide toebox, good support, and avoid high heels. Simple inserts can help with many types of foot pain. Metatarsal pads are best for the treatment of metatarsalgia. These pads help to take pressure off the ball of the foot. If some simple steps do not alleviate your symptoms, you should see your doctor to ensure you are receiving adequate treatment.