Dec 06 2007
Ball of Foot Pain
Pain under the ball of the foot could represent a number of different problems. Metatarsalgia, neuromas, 2nd metatarsal overload syndrome and sesamoiditis are some of the more common ball of foot problems.
Metatarsalgia: Metatarsalgia is the common catch all term for pain in the ball of the foot. Pain is generally deep and dull with walking and occurs under the 2nd, 3rd and 4th metatarsal phalangeal joints (MPJs). The common cause for the pain is faulty foot mechanics placing to much pressure on the ball of the foot, resulting in irritation and inflammation of the joints.
Neuromas: A neuroma is an inflamed nerve which causes pain in the ball of the foot which commonly shoots to the 3rd and 4th toes (and sometimes the 2nd toe). The pain can be deep, dull, sharp, burning, numb or electrical. Many will feel like they are walking on a lump or ball. Some complain of a “twang” in their foot.
2nd Metatarsal Overload: When the weight is transferred to the ball of the foot, it places a tremendous amount of force under the 2nd MPJ, as seen in the drawing to the right. This excess stress can result in inflammation and pain at this joint. The area is generally very tender and the pain can be sharp with walking.
Sesamoiditis: The sesamoid bones are two small bones under the big toe joint. These bones act like ball bearings in the foot and allow the big toe to glide up and down smoothly. When excess weight is transfer to the big toe joint, the sesamoid bones under the big toe joint can become inflamed and painful. This condition typically develops as a result of repetitive stress and is common in dancers, sports with quick sprints, sports involving a squatting position (catchers in baseball) and individuals with high arch feet.
The first step in treating any of these problems is addressing the cause of the problem, which in most cases is faulty foot mechanics. Calf stretches will help decrease stress on the ball of the foot and icing will decrease any inflammation. Rigid shoes with a small wedge at the heel will distribute foot pressure more evenly. For more specific diagnosis and treatment information on ball of foot pain, see our:
Also with the inflammation of the sciatica nerve, those areas can cause quite severe pain.
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