Metatarsalgia (met-uh-tahr-SAL-juh) is a condition in which the ball of your foot becomes painful and inflamed. You might develop it if you participate in activities that involve running and jumping. There are other causes as well, including foot deformities and shoes that are too tight or too loose.
Although generally not serious, metatarsalgia can sideline you. Fortunately, at-home treatments, such as ice and rest, often relieve symptoms. Wearing proper footwear with shock-absorbing insoles or arch supports might prevent or minimize future problems with metatarsalgia.
Symptoms
According to Mayoclinic, symptoms of metatarsalgia can include:
1. Sharp, aching or burning pain in the ball of your foot, the part of the sole just behind your toes
2. Pain that worsens when you stand, run, flex your feet or walk, especially barefoot on a hard surface and improves when you rest
3. Sharp or shooting pain, numbness, or tingling in your toes
4. A feeling of having a pebble in your shoe.
When to see a doctor
Not all foot problems need medical care. Sometimes your feet ache after a long day of standing or a punishing workout. But it's best not to ignore foot pain that lasts more than a few days. Talk to your doctor if you have a burning pain in the ball of your foot that doesn't improve after changing your shoes and modifying your activities.
Complications
Left untreated, metatarsalgia might lead to pain in other parts of the same or opposite foot and pain elsewhere in the body, such as the low back or hip, due to limping (altered gait) from foot pain.
Content created and supplied by: Kwajaffa (via Opera News )
COMMENTS