Metatarsalgia (pain in the ball of the foot)

Metatarsalgia refers to pain in the area between the arch and toes.
This is a common foot disorder in which pain or inflammation usually occurs on one or more of the five bones (metatarsals) and joints of the foot, commonly under the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th metatarsal heads, or more isolated at the first metatarsal head (near the big toe).

The pain and inflammation usually occurs due to excessive pressure over a long period of time.
People often develop a callus under the affected joint.
Metatarsalgia also can be caused by arthritis, foot injury (from sports, a car accident, or repeated stress), hard surfaces (cement or tile floors), and specific footwear (rigid-soled work boots).

It is common to experience acute, recurrent or chronic pain with this foot condition due to various factor.
This can inhibit the walking process and lead to extreme discomfort in the forefoot.

A change of shoes may solve the problem, together with custom orthotics, prescribed to alleviate the pain and prevent overpronation.

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