Our feet do a very important job and often we don’t give them much thought – until things start going wrong. If you have a job that involves a fair amount of standing, or you do a lot of exercises, there’s a good chance you’ll notice your feet often hurt.
Metatarsalgia ball of foot pain is named after the bones in this area, the metatarsals. It’s usually due to prolonged stress on this part of the foot, leading to the area becoming swollen and sore. It is commonly caused by ill-fitting shoes but it can also be the result of exercise. It is also known as a “stone bruise” because occasional sharp pains can feel like you have a stone in your shoe.
While this is a common issue for runners there are a few effective products on the market to help reduce the pain and there are also running shoes for metatarsalgia that can help if that is the source. Check out this curated list of products to help. Recommended read: How to Create a Daily Foot Care Routine
Dr. Foot’s Arch Support Insoles for Metatarsal and Heel Pain – $13
The insoles help to reduce pain of the heels, arch, ball feet, knees, hip and waist. They can relieves foot pain, plantar fasciitis, metatarsal pain, heel spurs and aching feet. They fit easily inside shoes and are simple and useful.
Fabric Metatarsal Pads – Ball of Foot Cushions Support Sleeves Burning Sensations – $11
Unlike a shoe insole, our metatarsal pads are designed to be worn over your foot for better fit and protection to the bottom of your feet. The cushioning gel comforts, soothes and balances your forefeet for all day relief, whether wearing high heels, metatarsal running shoes or loafers.
Ball of Foot Cushions High Heels – Soft Gel Insole Metatarsal Pads
Simply insert these silicone pad into your shoe and feel the relief from discomfort. The unique metatarsal product’s design redistributes weight and absorbs foot shock to reduce forefoot pain. Thin, clear pad is invisible even in open toe shoes. Silicone absorbs shock and helps redistribute pressure in high heels.
What to do if you Have Metatarsalgia ball of foot pain
It does depend on what is causing it, but immediate treatment usually involves resting and elevating the foot, icing the area to reduce inflammation, and taking a non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drug (such as ibuprofen) to ease the pain. You then need to see your doctor figure out what’s causing the pain, and the best way to treat it.
Physical therapy and gentle stretching can help in some cases. In severe cases of conditions such as metatarsalgia or tendinitis, your doctor may recommend steroid injections. In rare cases, surgery may be required, particularly if you have a deformity causing problems.
How to Avoid Metatarsalgia ball of foot pain
- Losing excess weight
- Wearing shoes that fit well and aren’t too tight or high
- Making sure you wear proper shoes when you exercise, and stretching beforehand
- Looking after your feet by keeping toenails trimmed, washing feet frequently and drying them properly
- Wearing insoles or arch supports if your doctor feels they can help.