Forefoot Pain - Causes and Treatment Options
Forefoot pain is a common complaint among many people. Forefoot pain can be caused by trauma, such as an ankle sprain or fracture, repetitive stress from overuse of the foot and forefoot muscles, or individuals are born with a pre-existing condition called pes planus or flat feet.
This page will discuss the causes and symptoms of forefoot pain and possible treatments for it. You may be able to get relief from your foot or heel pain with these easy steps!
What is Forefoot Pain?
Forefoot pain is a general term for the pain in the ball of your foot, located in one or more of the five bones (metatarsals) in the mid-portion of the foot. The forefoot consists of the toes, metatarsals and phalanges. It contains many bones, joints, and muscles, which could cause different types of pain.
The forefoot is the anterior part of your foot held up by five metatarsal bones, fourteen phalanges (fingers) and ligaments. The complicated structure makes pain in this region more difficult to diagnose. The three common conditions related to forefoot pain are metatarsals, Morton’s neuroma, sesamoiditis, and toe pain such as bunions, hammertoe, gout, etc.
Symptoms Of Forefoot Pain
Forefoot pain usually feels like a burning, sharp ache in the ball of your foot and could worsen when you walk, run, stand, and even flex your feet, especially standing on hard surfaces. You might also experience it if you feel there’s a bump or pebble in your shoes.
Dull pain or tingling sensation in the ball of the foot is usually a sign of metatarsal problems. Neuromas, which cause numbness or electric-like shocks that shoot up into the leg, may be present. These sensations will increase while standing and walking, and you’ll have relief when removing your shoes.
Treatment for Forefoot Pain
Changing your footwear
You can avoid forefoot pain by replacing your shoes with a well-fitting pair that provides good support. It may mean switching to low-heeled shoes or avoiding wearing high-heeled shoes. It would be best to take a break from high impact sports and exercise routines for a while, as these could put more pressure on the forefoot.
Orthotic Devices
This is the gold standard as prescription functional orthotics redistribute pressure and abnormal biomechanics and posture of the forefoot.
Metatarsal Pads
– To help relieve the pressure and pain on these nerves, they can be placed in your shoes to reestablish the transverse arch. It will improve alignment and help to restore the normal motion of the foot.
If your symptoms persist after using these home remedies, you need to consult with a podiatrist to observe the function of your foot. Your podiatrist will discuss the best treatment options for you if the affected area continues to feel numb or the redness of inflammation in the area does not subside.
What are the Risk & limitations due to forefoot pain in day to day life?
Individuals with metatarsalgia experience pain of varying intensity and discomfort that leads to a limited range of motion. Hence, it may keep them from exercising, walking, running, playing sports, and other lifestyle activities.
Why Choose Stephen Zucal South Perth Podiatrist for Forefoot Pain?
We are experts in treating foot conditions, including forefoot pain. Our Podiatrists can help you identify the appropriate treatment plan for you through performing clinical examinations such as x-rays and MRI to have a clear image of your bones. Also, other foot problems that are possibly causing your pain will be ruled out through imaging tests.
FAQs
FAQ's About Forefoot Pain
What are the common conditions of forefoot pain?
Foot deformities and conditions such as bunions, metatarsalgia, sesamoiditis, pes cavus (rigid high arch feet), hammertoes, and Morton’s neuroma are common and cause pain in the forefoot.
What are Common Causes of Forefoot Pain?
Pain on the ball of your foot can originate from many different places. The pain may be exacerbated by wearing tight shoes or high heels and prolonged standing. Foot deformities such as high arches (pes cavus), bunions (hallux valgus), hammertoes, foot conditions such as metatarsalgia, Morton’s neuroma, sesamoiditis, and most importantly, improper biomechanics /foot posture are common to cause pain in the forefoot.
What are the different treatments available for Forefoot Pain?
A podiatrist will prescribe custom prescription functional orthotics with soft tissue supplements to protect your feet and metatarsal pads to support and cushion your arch.
Does my Private health insurance cover the forefoot treatment?
Currently, rebates for podiatry services are available through private health insurance, although the rebate provided varies with plan type and level of cover. Contact your health fund if you need to estimate your out-of-pocket expenses for a procedure such as ongoing podiatric care.