OMetatarsalgia is a general term used to denote a painful foot condition in the metatarsal region of the foot (the area just before the toes, more commonly referred to as the ball of the foot). This is a common foot disorder that can affect the bones and joints at the ball-of-the-foot.
Metatarsalgia (ball of foot pain) is often located under the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th metatarsal heads, or more isolated at the first metatarsal head (near the big toe). With this condition one or more of the metatarsal heads become painful and/or inflamed, usually due to excessive pressure over a long period of time. It is common to experience acute, recurrent, or chronic pain with this common foot condition. Ball of foot pain is often caused due to improper fitting footwear, most frequently in women's dress shoes and other restrictive footwear. Footwear with a narrow toe box (toe area) causes the ball of foot area to be forced into a minimal amount of space. This can inhibit the walking process and lead to extreme discomfort in the forefoot.
Unloading pressure to the ball of the foot can be accomplished with a variety of foot care products. Orthotics designed to relieve ball of foot pain usually feature a metatarsal pad. The orthotic is constructed with the pad placed behind the ball of the foot to relieve pressure, and redistribute weight from the painful area to more tolerant areas. Other products often recommended include gel metatarsal cushions and metatarsal bandages. When these products are used with appropriate footwear, you should experience significant relief
Biomechanical research has shown that the most common cause of Metatarsalgia is a condition called excessive pronation or over pronation. This is when the arches of the foot collapse and the ankles rotate inwards which in turn causes excess pressure on the metatarsals, The Dr Foot Gel Plus Insoles are ideal for metatarsalgia & overpronation. View here
Extra soft silicone metatarsal pads are intended to provide comfort to ball of the foot pain. Reducing the adverse effects of weight bearing it alleviates painful rubbing and friction on walking. Specifically designed to treat forefoot soreness, and as a preventative device for those who stand long hours on their feet. View here
For forefoot discomfort, designed to be worn with open shoes such as sandals and slim pumps as they are narrow View Here. The Queen Metatarsal Support backs up the metatarsal bones to keep them in the correct position.
A 3/4 length leather covered lightweight acrylic support with a built in heel cushion, arch support and metatarsal support. This insole can benefit patients suffering from metatarsalgia, neuroma, flat feet and ball of the foot pain. View here
Dr Foot Recommends
This elastic sleeve slips onto your forefoot to reduce pressure and provide extra cushioning protection. If you suffer from Morton's neuroma, painful calluses or general forefoot discomfort, this extra soft and breathable silicone pad offers you tremendous relief.A quick, Secure and Easy to use Foot Store
Mr Mackintosh, London UK