The 10 Best Ways to Treat Metatarsalgia (2024)

FAQs

What is the fastest way to cure metatarsalgia? ›

It can take months for the pain to go away. If the ligaments around a joint are torn, or if a toe has started to slant toward the toe next to it, you may need surgery. Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety.

Excess weight. Because most of your body weight transfers to your forefoot when you move, extra pounds mean more pressure on your metatarsals. Losing weight might reduce or eliminate symptoms. Poorly fitting shoes.

The first thing you'll want to do is rest your foot. Don't participate in any activities or sports that you think may have caused the pain. If possible, don't stand for too long or walk too much. Avoid wearing unsupportive footwear.

Balance exercises: Improving your balance can help reduce the stress on your metatarsals and prevent metatarsalgia. To do a balance exercise, stand on one foot and try to hold the position for 30 seconds. If you are having trouble, try using a chair or wall for balance. Repeat on the other foot.

Inadequate vitamin D can lead to osteoporosis, increased risk of falls, fractures and bone and muscle pain. In the foot and ankle, stress fractures of the metatarsal bones and ankle may be seen in those with vitamin D deficiency, as well as generalized foot pain.

The main symptom is pain in a small area of the foot, usually in the sole. It is sometimes mistaken for arthritis or plantar fasciitis. The symptoms of metatarsalgia may include: Severe, continuous, or strong pain in the ball of the foot (the part of the sole just behind the toes)

Ball of the foot pain or Metatarsalgia generally takes 6-8 weeks to improve and early activity on the healing bone and joint can result in a setback in recovery. Non-compliance can double the recovery time and can be very frustrating for patients.

Damage to the nerves in the foot is a common cause of pain in the ball of the foot (metatarsalgia).

It often results from the pounding your feet take during high-impact sports. Or you may have something unusual about your bones or muscles that affects the way pressure is distributed on your feet, such as: A short first metatarsal bone or a long second metatarsal bone. Prominent metatarsal heads.

What diseases cause metatarsalgia? ›

Common causes of metatarsalgia include interdigital neuroma (also known as Morton neuroma), metatarsophalangeal synovitis, avascular necrosis, sesamoiditis, and inflammatory arthritis; however, these causes are often diagnosed separately.

You might also consider massage therapy as a way to relieve the pressure and stress around the metatarsal bones in your feet so that they have increased mobility and reduced tension in the muscles around the bones.

Avoid going barefoot: Shoes provide extra shock absorption and pressure relief. Consequently, until metatarsalgia subsides, it's best to avoid walking barefoot.

Use ice packs or an ice massage and raise the foot and ankle at or above heart level to reduce swelling. Heat may be used before doing stretching and strengthening activities prescribed by your health care provider or athletic trainer.

Ice the painful area for 10 minute periods. Place a towel between the skin and ice to prevent ice burns and skin damage. Shoes should be well cushioned, have low heels and be wide enough for all toes to move. A stiff soled shoe can reduce metatarsalgia, but experiment to find your preferred comfortable option.

When dissolved in warm water, Epsom salt releases magnesium and sulfate ions, which are absorbed through the skin. These ions can help relax muscles, reduce inflammation, and alleviate discomfort caused by metatarsalgia.

Footwear recommendations: Podiatrists can provide guidance on appropriate footwear that offers proper support, cushioning, and room for the toes. They may recommend orthotic inserts or custom-made orthotics to redistribute pressure and alleviate discomfort.

ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) and naproxen sodium (Aleve). If OTC medications do not relieve your pain, your doctor may prescribe stronger pain relievers such as celecoxib (Celebrex), diclofenac (Voltaren), or tramadol (Ultram).