Ball of Foot Pain

Pain in the ball of the foot can result from various conditions or underlying issues. At Ankle and Foot Care, we specialize in diagnosing and treating the causes of ball of foot pain to help you regain comfort and mobility.

Common Causes of Ball of Foot Pain

Metatarsalgia

This is a general term for pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot. It is often caused by repetitive stress, ill-fitting footwear, or high-impact activities like running or jumping.

Morton’s Neuroma

A thickening of the tissue around a nerve between the toes, usually between the third and fourth toes, causing pain, tingling, or numbness in the ball of the foot.

Sesamoiditis

Inflammation or injury of the sesamoid bones, small bones embedded in the tendons beneath the big toe, can cause localized pain in the ball of the foot.

Plantar Plate Tears

A tear or injury to the ligament that supports the toe joints can lead to pain in the ball of the foot, often under the second toe. This condition may also cause toe instability or deformity.

Capsulitis

Capsulitis is the inflammation of the ligaments surrounding the joints in the ball of the foot, often affecting the second toe. It can cause pain and swelling and may feel like walking on a pebble.

Bunions and Hammertoes

Misaligned toes caused by bunions or hammertoes can shift pressure onto the ball of the foot, leading to pain and discomfort.

Fat Pad Atrophy

The natural cushioning under the ball of the foot can thin over time, reducing shock absorption and increasing pain with walking or standing.

Stress Fractures

Small cracks in the metatarsal bones, caused by repetitive stress or overuse, can result in localized pain and swelling in the ball of the foot.

Arthritis

Conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the joints in the ball of the foot, leading to stiffness, swelling, and pain.

Gout

Gout, a form of arthritis, often affects the big toe joint but can also cause sharp, intense pain in the ball of the foot due to uric acid crystal buildup.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Compression of the tibial nerve as it travels through the ankle can cause radiating pain, including in the ball of the foot.

Symptoms of Ball of Foot Pain

• Sharp, burning, or aching pain in the ball of the foot
• Swelling or inflammation
• Tingling or numbness in the toes
• Pain that worsens with activity or when wearing certain shoes
• A feeling of walking on a pebble or marble

Diagnosis and Treatment

At Ankle and Foot Care, we begin with a comprehensive evaluation, which may include a physical exam, imaging studies, or gait analysis to determine the cause of your pain.

Conservative Treatments

• Proper Footwear: Switching to supportive, cushioned shoes with a roomy toe box.
• Custom Orthotics: Custom insoles or pads to redistribute pressure and provide cushioning.
• Rest and Ice: To reduce inflammation and allow the foot to heal.
• Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatory medications.

Advanced Treatments

• Injections: Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen and improve foot mechanics.
• Laser Therapy: A non-invasive treatment option that uses focused light to reduce inflammation, promote tissue repair, and alleviate pain.

Surgical Options

If conservative methods fail, surgical intervention may be recommended to address structural issues, such as removing a neuroma, repairing a plantar plate tear, or correcting a deformity.

Preventing Ball of Foot Pain

• Wear supportive footwear with proper cushioning.
• Use custom orthotics if you have high arches or other structural issues.
• Avoid high heels or shoes with narrow toe boxes.
• Stretch and strengthen your feet regularly to improve flexibility and alignment.
• Gradually increase the intensity of physical activities to avoid overuse injuries.

If you’re experiencing pain in the ball of your foot, contact Ankle and Foot Care today for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan.