Metatarsalgia, Pain and Inflammation In Footy

Metatarsalgia, Pain and Inflammation In Footy

Metatarsalgia is a condition characterized by pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot. May experience metatarsalgia if physically active and participate in activities that involve running and jumping. Metatarsalgia can also occur due to wearing ill-fitting shoes. Although usually not serious, metatarsalgia can be quite annoying. Conservative treatment, such as to compress the ice and rest, can relieve the symptoms of metatarsalgia. Proper footwear, with a fairly soft soles or arches of good footwear, required to prevent or minimize problems with metatarsalgia.

Cause

On each leg, there are five metatarsal bones. In some movements such as running, jumping, or running, weight is transferred to the toes and metatarsals. The first and second metatarsal bones take the brunt of this force. Most metatarsal problems develop when something changes in the way of the foot usually works (mechanical), affect how weight is distributed. This can give excess pressure on the metatarsal, which causes inflammation and pain, especially in the metatarsal head. Metatarsal head is the rounded edges that connect bone to bone toes.

Sometimes a single factor can cause metatarsalgia. There are several factors that may be involved, among others:

1. Regular physical activity
2. Particular foot shape
3. Hammertoe
4. Bunion
5. Overweight
6. Shoes that are less fit
7. Fractures
8. Morton's neuroma

Symptom

Symptoms of metatarsalgia may include:
1. Sharp pain, aching, or burning sensation in the ball of the foot
2. Pain in the area around your toes, second, third, or fourth, or, just near the big toe
3. Increasing pain when standing, walking, or running
4. Shooting pain in toes
5. Numbness or tingling in your toes
6. Pain that worsens when flexing the foot
7. Sensation like walking on gravel in the shoe
8. Increased pain when walking barefoot, especially on a hard surface

Treatment

The usual conservative measures to relieve the pain of metatarsalgia, among others:

1. Break
2. Applying an ice pack on the affected area.
3. Taking the drug-counter pain reliever.
4. Wearing the right shoes.
5. Wearing shoes with cushioning insoles are quite soft, to reduce stress on the feet.
6. Using metatarsal pads.

If conservative treatment fails, surgery for these cases are rare. But surgery may be an option to realign the metatarsal bone. If you are considering a surgical procedure, it is necessary to discuss the benefits and risks with your doctor.

Sources: MayoClinic