You probably have developed metatarsalgia if you are experiencing pain at the base of your toes and in the ball of your foot. This acute pain occurs in the metatarsal bones of your foot. Precisely, this painful condition can be a symptom of other foot glitches. Read the article and learn more about metatarsalgia. Besides, I’m going to discuss information that can help you deal with this problem.
Symptoms of Metatarsalgia
Many patients have gone through incorrect diagnoses with metatarsalgia. They get to confuse pain with other conditions like Morton’s Neuroma. You can suspect metatarsalgia if you happen to feel sharp foot pain, burning sensation in your toes, and usually pain at the base of second & third toes. The pain passes in the bones and ball of your foot.
Causes of Metatarsalgia
If you are thinking about what could be the probable causes of Metatarsalgia, then review the following:
- High levels of sports activities
- Abnormal weight distribution
- Tight toe muscles/extensors
- Tight Achilles tendon
- Too much of pronation
- Weak toe muscles/flexors
- Hammertoe deformity
- Bad-fitting footwear
- Congenital foot deformity
- Claw toe deformity
Evaluation of Metatarsalgia
Generally, X-rays and bone scans are done on patients to assess places of inflammation and other roots of forefoot pain. Ultrasound is best-suited to identify issues like bursitis or Morton Neuroma. Not only this, but doctors also conduct detailed MRIs to evaluate causes of pain in the midfoot regions. Depending on your medical condition, your doctor can recommend other tests to better diagnose the problem and pinpoint a suitable treatment.
Ways to Treat Metatarsalgia in the Long Term
Potentially, there are a lot of surgical and non-surgical ways that can help you address this problem. Once you have identified that the underlying problem is of non-surgical nature, then you can follow the below-mentioned simple treatments:
Medicated Shoes
Under the umbrella of the modern shoe industry, comfortable shoes are available to help you with your acute foot conditions. They come with a contoured rocker bottom and stiff sole. Many stylish shoes are available online and offline for both men and women. If you have been experiencing pain in the ball of your foot, then buy a pair of shoes to help alleviate Metatarsalgia.
NSAIDs
Currently, many doctors are prescribing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to cure moderate to severe symptoms of the pain. Using NSAIDs with other suitable strengthening activities can be an ideal non-healing option for you to cure metatarsalgia.
Foot Exercises
Regular foot exercises are best-suited to strengthen the intrinsic and small muscles of your foot. You can do the stretching of your calves to help alleviate the pain.
Soft Orthotics
It is a great strategy to cushion against excessive force. This facility is available to prevent the injured area. It can substantially help your plantar fat pad shift back into place beneath the metatarsal head.
Modify Activities
The modifying activities can provide your feet with the essential rest. It is right on your end to take a break if you have been running or walking a lot recently. If your feet feel hurt, put an ice pack, or soak in a foot bath. This can be a perfect foot massage.