What Is the Pain in the Ball of My Foot?
Ball of foot pain, also known as metatarsalgia, is a common ailment for people who run frequently or participate in jumping activities.
However, there are other common causes, like wearing high heels or other ill-fitting shoes.
Our experts at Paspa Physical Therapy would be glad to help you with the pain in the ball of your foot. Contact our clinic in Manhattan, NY today to schedule your visit.
What Causes Ball of Foot Pain?
Wearing high heels and excessive exercise are among the top causes of pain in the ball of the foot.
Physical activity or high-impact sports can also leave you with metatarsal pain.
If you have unusually high arches or if your second toe is longer than the big toe, this could cause pain in the ball of the foot.
Also, wearing improper footwear if you have a slight foot deformity could unduly shift pressure incorrectly, causing either heel pain or ball of foot pain.
Regardless of foot health, wearing shoes of the wrong shape for your foot can cause ball of foot pain by shifting your body weight towards the ball of your foot.
Wearing tight shoes can also stress the metatarsals, causing painful swelling.
A stress fracture from excessive or intense physical activity can also cause foot problems by promoting swelling and inflammation.
There are a few other causes, but these are the most common.
Other Causes of Foot Pain
Consulting a physician is crucial when dealing with long-term foot pain, as many other causes may need to be investigated, including:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Stress fractures
- Morton’s neuroma
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Foot injury
Symptoms of Metatarsalgia
There are many symptoms of metatarsalgia.
Here are the most common:
- Pain in the ball of the foot
- Sharp burning or aching pain on the bottom of your foot, directly behind your toes
- Worsening pain when you apply pressure on your foot, flex your feet, walk, or engage in running
- Numbness or tingling in your toes
- Feeling like there is a pebble in your shoe
- Chronic inflammation and discoloration of the toes
If you have any of these symptoms, you may have metatarsalgia and should seek treatment as soon as possible to avoid any further discomfort to the area.
Those dealing with arthritis, diabetes, Morton’s neuroma, painful calluses, plantar fasciitis, or other foot conditions should consult a professional for further examination and treatment options.
How Is Ball of Foot Pain Treated?
There are several ways to treat ball of foot pain at home.
Some treatment methods include:
- Rest
- Elevating your foot every 2-3 hours
- Applying an ice pack
- Wearing comfortable shoes if you are on your feet for long periods of time
- Adding arch supports if you have a high arch
- Using orthotic inserts or shock-absorbing insoles if changing shoes is not enough
- Stretching and strengthening your foot through targeted exercise
- Making lifestyle changes, if body weight is the cause the pain
If these measures do not reduce pain and discomfort in a few days, it may be time to seek the help of a professional.
Physical Therapy Can Help with Ball of Foot Pain
The good news is that physical therapy can help to alleviate the pain in the ball of your foot.
Whether you’re involved in high-impact sports or just busy carrying out daily activities, our specialists at Paspa Physical Therapy have the skills and knowledge necessary to help you get back on your feet.
Our team of experts will develop a program that is specifically tailored to help with your pain and discomfort.
Call our office in Manhattan, NY today or book an appointment online to get the relief you’re looking for.