Foot Pain

Metatarsalgia is pain that occurs in the ball (or metatarsal region) of the foot. The pain can range from mild to severe and often gets worse when you stand or move. It is sometimes described as a burning or aching sensation and you may have shooting pains, tingling or numbness in your toes. Some people also experience a ‘walking on pebbles’ sensation. Metatarsalgia is a common foot problem and often occurs in the area where the second, third and fourth toes meet the ball of the foot (the metatarsal heads). Large calluses can sometimes form. It can affect just one or two toes or the whole foot (or both feet).

There are a number of different causes of metatarsalgia and plantar fasciitis, including certain medical conditions. Anything that adds extra strain or pressure on the ball of the foot can bring it on.

  • Badly fitting footwear
    high-heeled or tight, restrictive shoes or boots. Shoes with a narrow toe box or high heels can force the ball of the foot into a small amount of space, which puts more pressure on that area.

  • Being overweight
    This can increase the pressure upon the foot.

  • Age
    Older people are more susceptible to metatarsalgia as the fat pad that protects the foot can thin with age, making them more likely to feel pain in the ball of their foot.

  • Bone structure of the foot
    Narrow, high-arched feet or flat feet can increase the chance of metatarsalgia. Hammer toes (where the toes are bent at the middle joint) and a bunion (bony swelling at the base of the toe) can also bring it on.

  • High-impact sports
    , such as running or tennis, which puts extra pressure on the foot.

  • Stress fractures in the foot
    These occasionally occur in athletes or walkers and cause pain to come on rapidly.

  • Arthritis, gout or inflammation (swelling) of the joints in the foot.

  • A build-up of fluid in the foot.

  • Diabetes
    which can cause the small nerves in the foot to become irritated.






We offer several different or combination of treatments for foot pain:

  • Anti-inflammatory medication
  • Ice packs
  • Stretching exercise
  • Orthotic Therapy to address the underlying biomechanical issues
  • Shoes Advices