Ball of Foot Pain
Foot pain in the ball of the foot, the area below the toes, especially beneath the big toe is quite a common complaint especially in those who do a lot of walking and on hard surfaces. Most causes of pain in this area develop gradually, known as overuse injuries although there are a few exceptions.
Common Causes of Ball of Foot Pain:
- Morton's Neuroma - Pinching of a nerve as it passes between the metatarsal heads, causing pain and sometimes numbness or tingling.
- Turf Toe - a sprain to the ligaments supporting the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint (between the big toe and 1st metatarsal).
- Metatarsal Stress Fractures - the 2nd metatarsal is most frequently fractured which can cause pain in the ball of the foot.
- Metatarsalgia - An inflammatory condition which occurs in the joints between the toes and metatarsals.
- Hallux Limitus/Rigidus - Stiffness and pain in the joint of the big toe and metatarsal.
- Hallux Valgus (bunions) - a painful swelling of the soft tissue, and bone enlargement over the inside of the ball of the big toe
- Sesamoid injuries - There are 2 sesamoid bones underneath the joint of the big toe and the 1st metatarsal. Damage may occur through a sudden impact or a gradual inflammation. There is pain on weight bearing, and sufferers will often compensate by walking on the outside of the foot.
- Freiberg's Osteochondritis - This condition affects the metatarsal heads in adolescents (usually 14-18 age range). They appear fragmented on an x-ray although the condition will usually resolve itself. Padding or orthotics may be used temporarily to avoid further damage.
Treatment of Ball of Foot Pain
Treatment will depend on the condition in question, although in many cases faulty biomechanics are the cause of injury. Overpronation is the biggest cause of foot pain, as well as other leg and even hip or back injuries. Good, supportive footwear with no (or a very small) heel is always recommended for any foot pain. If this is not adequate then insoles or specially made orthotics may be suitable.
On the other hand, oversupination or a high arch can also be a problem. This is usually corrected with cushioned running shoes or shock absorbing insoles.
Another simple piece of advice is to stretch the calf muscles regularly. Tight calf muscles can contribute to foot pain, especially as it serves to further increase pronation.
