What is the best way to treat metatarsalgia?

To help ease your metatarsalgia pain, try these tips:
  1. Rest. Protect your foot from further injury by not stressing it. …
  2. Ice the affected area. …
  3. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever. …
  4. Wear proper shoes. …
  5. Use metatarsal pads. …
  6. Consider arch supports.

Does metatarsalgia go away?

Treatment may consist of home care, such as rest, wearing different shoes, and taking over-the-counter pain medicines. 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.

How is metatarsalgia caused?

Metatarsalgia is named for the five metatarsal bones in the midsection of your feet that connect to your toes. Metatarsalgia commonly occurs from overuse injuries in sports that involve running and jumping. It can also result from shoes that don’t fit, foot abnormalities, or arthritis and other diseases.

Can you recover from metatarsalgia?

Recovery from metatarsalgia can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the extent of your injury. Other factors can influence your recovery time, including your age, weight, and the overall condition of your foot. Your doctor will help guide you on your return to normal activities.

Is metatarsalgia a form of arthritis?

Metatarsal joint pain is a common cause of pain in the ball of the foot Pain in the Ball of the Foot (Metatarsalgia) Pain in the ball of the foot is called metatarsalgia and may have many different causes (including arthritis, poor circulation, pinching of the nerves between the toes, posture problems, and… read more …

Is it good to massage metatarsalgia?

Massage Can Reduce Metatarsalgia

Massage techniques can help with metatarsalgia ( ball of foot pain) and aid in Morton’s Neuroma. These techniques are becoming very popular among sports therapists, and massage therapists, reflexologists, and physical therapists.

Is metatarsalgia serious?

Although generally not serious, metatarsalgia can sideline you. Fortunately, at-home treatments, such as ice and rest, often relieve symptoms. Wearing proper footwear with shock-absorbing insoles or arch supports might prevent or minimize future problems with metatarsalgia.

Is metatarsalgia the same as plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis (PF) is characterized by pain on weight-bearing in the medial plantar area of the heel, metatarsalgia (MTG) by pain on the plantar surface of the forefoot radiating into the toes.

How long does metatarsalgia usually last?

Treatment. 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.

How long does metatarsalgia usually last?

Treatment. 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.

How do I know if I have metatarsalgia?

Symptoms of metatarsalgia can include: Sharp, aching or burning pain in the ball of your foot — the part of the sole just behind your toes. Pain that worsens when you stand, run, flex your feet or walk — especially barefoot on a hard surface — and improves when you rest.

Should I see a doctor for metatarsalgia?

You can usually treat metatarsalgia at home without seeing your GP. However, you should get medical advice if: the pain doesn’t improve despite trying self-help measures. the pain significantly interferes with your normal activities.

How do you know if you have damaged your metatarsal?

You may hear a sound at the time of the break. Pinpoint pain (pain at the place of impact) at the time the fracture occurs and perhaps for a few hours later, but often the pain goes away after several hours. Crooked or abnormal appearance of the toe. Bruising and swelling the next day.

What can a podiatrist do for metatarsalgia?

With most cases of metatarsalgia, our podiatrists will assign simple treatments and care such as:
  • Icing several times a day.
  • Taking Anti-inflammatories.
  • Resting & keeping foot elevated.
  • Wearing better fitting shoes.
  • Using orthotics or arch supports.
  • Ankle & Achilles tendon stretches.

Is metatarsalgia the same as plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis (PF) is characterized by pain on weight-bearing in the medial plantar area of the heel, metatarsalgia (MTG) by pain on the plantar surface of the forefoot radiating into the toes.

Can flip flops cause metatarsalgia?

The lack of arch support in most flip-flops can cause plantar fasciitis, inflammation of the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot that causes a stabbing pain, especially in the heel. Other injuries include shin splints and metatarsalgia, which causes pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot.

Does Epsom salt help metatarsalgia?

Low level, cold laser or ultrasound therapy to the metatarsal head area can decrease inflammation or irritation and significantly calm down the area. Soaking your feet in hot, Epsom salt bath. This simple home remedy can take some of the soreness out of the foot.

How do you massage your foot for metatarsalgia?

Perform a massage by rolling a golf or tennis ball under your foot, being careful not to apply direct pressure to the painful area. This helps relax the muscles in the foot that become overworked supporting the toes.

Can toe separators help metatarsalgia?

A great aid in treating metatarsalgia and as prevention is to wear foot alignment socks. Thanks to the special toe separators, they help to increase blood circulation and thus speed up foot regeneration. Foot alignment socks keep the feet and toes mobile and flexible, so that they are less susceptible to pain.

What kind of doctor treats metatarsalgia?

Metatarsalgia has many causes, and your podiatric doctor will discuss your options during your office visit. All symptoms should always be evaluated with a thorough consultation and examination by your podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan to exclude any underlying serious condition.

Do metatarsal pads work?

Studies evaluating met pads for metatarsalgia have been primarily positive. Kang et al found that applying met pads is an effective method for reducing pressure unloading under the met heads and relieving symptoms of metatarsalgia.

Is it better to go to a podiatrist or orthopedist?

As a general guideline, if you have an injury, condition, or symptoms affecting your foot or ankle health, it’s best to see a podiatrist. If you have an injury, condition, or symptoms affecting any other part of your musculoskeletal system, it’s best to see an orthopedic physician.