HOW DOES METATARSALGIA (BALL OF FOOT PAIN) AFFECT FEET?

Metatarsalgia is a condition that causes pain and discomfort in the ball of the foot, where the metatarsal bones are located. Metatarsalgia can be caused by a variety of factors, including overuse, improper footwear, and foot deformities. This foot condition can have different causes and types, including:

Primary Metatarsalgia: This is the most common type of metatarsalgia, which is caused by overuse of the foot, repetitive high-impact activities, or wearing tight-fitting shoes.

Secondary Metatarsalgia: This type of metatarsalgia is caused by an underlying condition or injury such as arthritis, Morton's neuroma, hammertoes, or stress fractures.

Morton's Neuroma: This is a type of nerve damage that can cause pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, typically between the third and fourth toes.

Capsulitis: This is a condition where the ligaments that connect the toes to the foot become inflamed, causing pain in the ball of the foot.

Sesamoiditis: This is a condition where the two small bones (sesamoids) under the big toe joint become inflamed, causing pain in the ball of the foot.

Metatarsal Stress Fractures: This is a type of fracture in the metatarsal bones that can cause pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot.

WHAT SHOE FEATURES ARE BEST FOR METATARSALGIA (BALL OF FOOT PAIN)?

While there are different ways to treat ball of foot pain, including rest, icing, and foot stretching exercises, supportive and cushioned shoes can play an important role in managing metatarsalgia. Here are some features to look for in shoes for metatarsalgia:

Wide and roomy toe box: Shoes with a wide and roomy toe box can provide more space for the toes to move and help reduce pressure on the ball of the foot.

Insole with metatarsal pads: Shoes with insoles that have cushioning pads at the metatarsal area (ball of foot) can help absorb shock and reduce pressure on the metatarsal bones.

Arch support: Good arch support can help distribute weight evenly across the foot and reduce pressure on the ball of the foot.

Flexibility: Flexible shoes can help the foot move more naturally and reduce stress on the metatarsal bones.

Cushioned Sole: A cushioned sole made of rubber or EVA materials will absorb shock and reduce pressure and impact on affected area.

Low heels: Shoes with a low heel (ideally less than 2 inches) put less strain on the forefoot and help reduce pressure on the ball of the foot.

Removable insoles: In some cases, custom orthotics or different insoles are necessary to alleviate pain from metatarsalgia. Shoes with a removable insole option can accommodate these inserts.