What Are Some Causes of Metatarsalgia?
Metatarsalgia can occur when uneven or too much pressure is applied to the foot’s metatarsals due to the following conditions:
- Foot injuries
- Weight-bearing sports and exercises, such as running
- Ill-fitting or rigid footwear
- Prolonged standing on hard floors or ground
- Overpronation, or rolling in of the feet when walking or running which causes uneven weight distribution on the feet
- Foot deformities
- Morton’s neuroma
- Arthritis
- Aging (degenerates foot bones and pads)
- Weight gain
What Are Symptoms of Metatarsalgia?
- Sudden or increasing pain in the toe and forefoot area, especially during activity or walking barefoot
- Callus formation under the inflicted joint due to pressure
How Is Metatarsalgia Treated?
- Rest the area and restrict sports and physical activity
- Apply ice
- Take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications on a temporary basis (ask your doctor first)
- Wear properly-fitting, supportive, and appropriate footwear and orthotics such as arch supports, metatarsal lifts, and inserts
- Eliminate overpronation with appropriate footwear and orthotics
- Lose weight to reduce pressure and stress on the feet