Metatarsalgia or Ball of Foot Pain

Metatarsalgia or Ball of Foot Pain is the name given to pain specifically in the front part of your foot, under the heads of your metatarsal bones (the ball of your foot). This discomfort can feel like you are walking on stones, sometimes it can be a vague pain or a burning feeling, or it can be more localised around one or two toes.

This condition can be caused by wearing high-heeled shoes, being overweight, or by claw or hammer toes. Certain foot shapes can also cause Metatarsalgia as they put more pressure onto the ball of the foot.

You can lessen the pain caused by Metatarsalgia by wearing comfortable or wide shoes in addition to using insoles or padding (like the ones below). If you are suffering you can try using a bag of frozen peas or an ice pack on the ball of your foot for 20-25 minutes every couple of hours. Make sure to use a towel should between your foot and the ice pack.

You can also try some gentle stretching. Alternatively you can take some paracetamol to reduce the pain if necessary. If you are worried by the pain, or it has gotten worse, or you have any loss of sensation or tingling please contact your GP. You can also visit the NHS website for more information.