Metatarsalgia

What is Metatarsalgia?

Metatarsalgia is an umbrella term used to describe any pain on the forefoot. Specifically, Metatarsalgia actually refers to an inflammatory condition between the key bones in the foot: the metatarsals and the phalanges. Often, it occurs in the 2nd 3rd or 4th toes. Metatarsalgia can, however, affect any toe and often affects more than one at a time. The symptoms range from quite mild to severe, and there are myriad causes such as poorly fitted footwear and arthritis.

Symptoms of Metatarsalgia:

• Pain in the forefoot which is worse when weight bearing.
• Pain onsets gradually.
• Tenderness when pressing the joint.
• Bending the toes down can cause pain.
• Excessive skin or calluses underneath the foot due to added pressure.

Common Causes of Metatarsalgia:

• High or rigid foot arch
• Over Pronation of the foot
• Shortened first metatarsal
• Tight extensor tendons in the toes
• Poorly fitting footwear
• Conditions such as hammer toe or bunions
• Age - more common in older people
• Stress Fractures in the metatarsal
• Repetitive high impact (Running)
• Arthritis
• Diabetes
• Morton's Neuroma
• Gout

Treatment of Metatarsalgia:

What can the athlete do?

• Anti-inflammatories such as Ibuprofen (consult a Doctor first)
• Use padding to soften impact and redistribute weight across the foot
• Use gel insoles
• Wear flat shoes that are not too tight
• Regularly stretch the calf muscles

What can a sports injury specialist or doctor do?

• X-Rays, MRIs, or Ultrasound scans can be used to assess damage.
• Blood tests to identify any underlying causes such as diabetes or gout
• Gait analysis
• Custom insoles can be made up
• Corticosteroid Injection to the foot

Please visit the Virtual Sports Injury Clinic for more information on how to treat Metatarsalgia and other causes of foot pain.