Frequently Asked Questions About Metatarsalgia
What is metatarsalgia?
Metatarsalgia is the general term for pain affecting the ball of the foot, around the area of the metatarsal bones behind the toes.
It can result from several different conditions or from repeated pressure on the forefoot.
What does metatarsalgia feel like?
Symptoms vary, but people may experience aching, burning, stabbing or sharp pain around the ball of the foot.
Pain commonly becomes more noticeable during weight-bearing activities such as walking or running and may improve with rest.
What causes metatarsalgia?
Possible causes include repetitive exercise, poorly fitting footwear, foot shape, arthritis and conditions such as Morton’s neuroma, stress fractures or bunions.
The correct treatment depends on the underlying cause.
Do metatarsal pads help metatarsalgia?
They can help reduce pressure around the ball of the foot by adding cushioning and changing how pressure is distributed beneath the forefoot.
NHS musculoskeletal guidance specifically includes metatarsal padding among conservative options for forefoot pain.
Correct positioning is important, as a pad placed directly beneath a painful pressure point may be uncomfortable.
Can insoles help metatarsalgia?
Yes, suitable insoles may provide cushioning, arch support or a combination of both.
An insole with integrated metatarsal support can help reduce pressure beneath the ball of the foot, although the most appropriate design depends on your individual foot shape and symptoms.
What shoes are best for metatarsalgia?
Look for footwear with a wide forefoot, sufficient toe room, good cushioning and a relatively low heel.
Avoid shoes that squeeze the toes together or place excessive pressure beneath the forefoot, particularly narrow shoes and high heels.
Is metatarsalgia the same as Morton’s neuroma?
No. Metatarsalgia describes ball-of-foot pain generally, whereas Morton’s neuroma involves irritation of a nerve between the metatarsal bones.
Morton’s neuroma is more likely to produce burning, shooting, tingling or numb sensations around the forefoot and toes.
Can I exercise with metatarsalgia?
It depends on the cause and severity of your symptoms.
Activities that repeatedly aggravate the forefoot should usually be reduced temporarily. Lower-impact exercise may be more comfortable while symptoms settle, followed by a gradual return to your usual activities.
When should I seek professional advice?
Consider seeing a GP, podiatrist or physiotherapist if the pain is getting worse, keeps returning, interferes with normal activities or has not improved after around two weeks of self-care.
Medical advice is also recommended if you develop tingling or loss of sensation. Seek more urgent help if the foot becomes severely painful, hot and swollen, changes shape or you cannot walk on it.