Mystery Pain in the Ball of Your Foot? This Could be Why
We’ve all experienced phantom pains before, wondering where the source of our discomfort might lie while grimacing through the ache. Clifton Foot & Ankle Center is always pleased to dispel the mystery surrounding the conditions our patients experience. That’s why we’ve dedicated this blog post to a source of discomfort that many people don’t know how to trace: Pain in the ball of the foot.
Where Does It Come From?
Metatarsalgia, also referred to as a “stone bruise,” is a common podiatric problem that inflicts swelling and pain in the ball of the foot, which is located behind your big toe on the sole. This region absorbs much of the pressure from your weight when you walk, run, or stand, and it’s more susceptible to injury, especially in the area where the three middle toes intersect with the middle portion of the foot.
Why Does It Happen?
Several factors can contribute to the development of metatarsalgia:
Stress Fractures: Breaks in the metatarsal bones may contribute to the development of metatarsalgia, causing pain and swelling.
Poorly Fitted Footwear: Shoes with a narrow toe box, such as high heels, can contribute to this condition, among others.
Excess Weight: Carrying extra pounds puts more stress on the ball of the foot, not to mention the joints.
Morton’s Neuroma: This mass of fibrous tissue often occurs between the third and fourth metatarsal bones, causing pain and discomfort.
Deformities: Conditions like hammertoes and bunions may adversely affect the metatarsal bones and increase stress on the ball of the foot.
Gout: This arthritic condition can also contribute to the onset of metatarsalgia.
Knowing is half the battle…but that still leaves the other half to be fought! If you’re struggling with metatarsalgia complications, don’t wait for them to spiral and grow worse. Instead, contact an expert podiatrist who knows the causes, symptoms, and treatments that pertain to this frustrating, painful condition. Make an appointment with Dr. Kenneth R. Wilhelm for an examination and take the guesswork out of foot care. Call Clifton Foot & Ankle Center in Centreville, Virginia, at (703) 996-3000 or contact us online today!
