Metatarsalgia

Metatarsalgia is a painful condition effecting the ball of the foot.

• A sharp, aching or burning pain just behind the toes
• The pain worsens when you walk or stand for a period of time
• Flexing the foot can also cause the pain

• Metatarsalgia is common in people who partake in high-impact or long-distance sports such as long-distance running, cycling, and rock-climbing
• These activities exert a lot of sustained pressure on the balls of the feet, leading to inflammation
• The metatarsals are bones connecting the toes to the ankles and people most at risk of developing metatarsalgia are those with high foot arches and those who wear high heels or ill-fitting shoes for long periods at a time

• Standard metatarsalgia treatment is to follow the RICE method – resting your feet, applying ice to the inflamed area, compressing the area, and elevating your injured foot. In most cases, symptoms will subside after a few days away from intense sport and plenty of rest
• Over the counter pain relief medication will provide short term pain relief
• If your metatarsalgia is caused by wearing high heels or tight fitting shoes, it is advisable to change your footwear to something more comfortable as soon as possible
• Use Enertor PX1 insoles as these may help with the condition as they will lessen the impact on your forefoot. Wear the insoles in your daily shoes and trainers
• If symptoms persist for more than a week, without performing intense exercise, then you will need to seek medical advice