Metatarsalgia

Metatarsalgia literally means “metatarsal pain”. If you have this condition you may feel like the ball of your foot is bruised. This is different from Morton’s Neuroma where the pain is between the metatarsals and different from a stress fracture where the pain is usually slightly behind the ball of the foot.

Treatments:

• See Principles of Recovery.
• A metatarsal pad is a small, slightly triangular, pad that can be placed behind the painful area to provide relief (see metatarsal pad). It may support an arch in this area and decrease pressure on the ball of the foot.
• Arch Supports , or orthotics(custom foot supports) may be able to position the foot in a way that reduces strain on this region.
• Stretching of both calf muscles at least twice per day. See bent knee calf stretches and straight knee calf stretches.
• Strengthening and balance training. TryThe Injured Runner A Balanced Solution.
• An anti-inflammatory cream may help reduce the pain and inflammation. ProZ is a new product that contains ibuprofen as well as a blend of homeopathic remedies.