Metatarsalgia Explained
Posted on: 7 December 2020
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Metatarsalgia is a painful foot condition that can occur in those who participate in high-impact sports and exercise. The condition affects the ball of the foot, which tends to come under strain when you run or jump, as the front of your foot lands on the ground first. Additionally, a poor running technique can put stress on the joints at the front of your feet, as can wearing unsupportive footwear when you participate in sports. Here's an overview of the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment approach for metatarsalgia:
Symptoms
Metatarsalgia causes pain in the ball of the foot, and this is often described as either a dull and constant pain or a shooting pain that worsens with activity. The condition also causes localised swelling, which can make your foot feel stiff and impact on how your footwear fits. The swelling may worsen if you have been on your feet and reduce when you put your feet up.
Diagnosis And Treatment Approach
Your podiatrist will make their diagnosis by taking details of your symptoms and conducting a thorough foot exam. This may involve them gently manipulating your foot or asking you to carry out foot exercises to determine the extent of the impact of the injury on your mobility. You may also need to have your foot X-rayed to confirm none of the bones are fractured and to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.
Your podiatrist will recommend a treatment approach based on the severity of your symptoms, but you will have to rest the affected foot, which means you will have to stop exercising until the condition resolves. Rest will allow the swelling to reduce, which will allow more blood to flow to the muscles at the front of your foot, and this can promote healing of the tissue and reduce pain. You may also be given painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids to speed up the healing process. Your podiatrist may also measure your feet for a pair of custom-made orthotic insoles, which can take the pressure off the front of your feet by altering the distribution of weight across your feet. Orthotic insoles can be used to support your feet when you return to physical exercise, and your podiatrist will follow-up with you after treatment to ensure exercising or playing sports isn't causing any continued problems with the front of your feet.
Metatarsalgia can be treated by any podiatrist, but opting for a sports podiatrist can be helpful, as they are experienced in treating conditions that are closely associated with physical exertion. This experience enables them to offer practical support when you do return to exercise, such as recommending a specific type of supportive footwear or showing you how to massage your feet or build strength in the muscles in your feet. If you think you have developed metatarsalgia, schedule an appointment at a sports podiatry clinic for a foot exam as soon as possible.