If you are currently suffering from metatarsal foot pain, you are far from alone. In fact, the forefoot is one of the most common sources of pain for Australian adults. Conditions such as Metatarsalgia, Morton’s Neuroma, Capsulitis and many others can be truly debilitating. Luckily, effective treatments and remedies do exist and are not far from reach.
Podiatry and physiotherapy have made a number of significant strides in the area of forefoot treatment. Whether your foot issues are already diagnosed, or you are beginning to experience symptoms, we will now break down how you can tackle each condition and find effective relief.
Morton’s Neuroma
The condition known as Morton’s Neuroma occurs when the 3rd and 4th metatarsal bones compress and begin to squeeze a vital nerve at the front end of foot. Common signs include a painful numbing and hot tingling sensation which may spread to the toes.
Morton’s Neuroma is often reported by people that regularly wear high heels or those with either of the following issues – hammer toes, flat feet, and bunions. One of the best ways to relieve this condition is through orthotic insoles and footwear with adequate heel support. In addition, they can also lower the level of pressure and friction on the metatarsals, ligaments, and nerves.
Ensure that the footwear you purchase is from a certified supplier and approved by a podiatrist.
Plantar Plate Disruption
A tear, strain or disruption to the plantar plate is most found under two key demographics. The first group is women in their 40-50s while the other are athletes that undertake high impact exercise and performance. For instance, those who do partake in running, jumping, and anything that places pressure on the metatarsals are often prone to this condition.
Aside from the operation path, there are many ways to find relief for your plantar plate pain. If certain activities are the root cause, you may have to change up your exercise routine. Another excellent approach lies in adapting to specialised footwear and embracing metatarsal foot pain strategies. Of course, the decision between surgery and non-surgical treatments is significant and situations will vary from individual to individual.
Intermetatarsal Bursitis
For those unfamiliar with the bursae, this is a fluid-filled cushioning sac situated next to tendons, skin, muscles, and ligaments across the body. Acting as a barrier between these components and the bone, bursae serve a critical function. Primarily, their role surrounds the reduction of friction, shock absorption and general wear and tear.
Intermetatarsal bursitis, therefore, occurs when bursae on the forefoot become inflamed. Treatments and relief methods for this condition predominantly relate to re-creating the metatarsal arch. In this case, a shift to the correct footwear can make a major difference. If you notice forefoot swelling, pain in the ball area of the foot or tenderness when pushing off, you may need to seek out treatments for intermetatarsal bursitis.
Capsulitis
Capsulitis is another form of metatarsal foot pain that results from inflammation. In this scenario, inflammation typically occurs at the joint that connects the 2nd toe and the 2nd metatarsal. Capsulitis can not only threaten the surrounding joints on your forefoot but will also cause significant pain and discomfort.
Treatments for this condition are usually undertaken via a two-pronged approach. The first point of concern involves the application of ice/anti-inflammatory gels and regular stretching/exercises. Second, the individual’s footwear situation will also need to shift toward an orthotic centred strategy where the proper arch support is provided.
Metatarsalgia
Metatarsal foot pain is a general term that covers any forefoot discomfort below the ball socket and toes. As a general rule, metatarsalgia is the result of too much pressure on a single area. Common causes for this pain include regular exercise (particularly jumping and running), poor foot support and certain foot deformities. Individuals who experience this may feel a sharp burning pain at the underfoot ball area.
If your metatarsal foot pain results from exercise or footwear issues, purpose designed orthotic insoles can provide excellent relief. The proper metatarsal support is also key for those who wear raised heels on a regular basis. If making a switch to podiatry friendly footwear does not work and paint persists, contact a foot professional as soon as possible.
Sesamoiditis
Sesamoid bones are small bones nestled within certain tendons. One of the foremost sesamoid bones is located in the middle section of the big toe. This condition, therefore, relates to pain around this specific area of the forefoot. Irritation, inflammation and pain when the big toe is pressed are all the common signs for sesamoiditis.
Other tell-tale signs of sesamoiditis may include bruising, redness or swelling across the big toe, particularly at the central point of the toe itself. Orthotic treatments, however, can cushion this area and reduce everyday pain or swelling. The most important factor will be the severity of your sesamoiditis. When mild, insoles can provide very effective everyday relief. If the issue has already led to a stress fracture, we advise that you consult a medical professional for assistance.
Stress Fracture
Unlike a sudden or high-impact bone break, a stress fracture in the forefoot generally develops over a period of time, worsening as a greater load is placed on your foot. Stress fractures are common amongst athletes and those who place significant strain on their feet. A significant change to lifestyle habits, therefore, can lead to the development of this condition.
Due to the severity and concern surrounding stress fractures, an immediate shift in activity is the typical recommendation. To allow for the proper bone healing, patients can benefit from orthotics that are fitted with specific and purpose-made padding.
Speak to a Professional
If you are currently suffering from metatarsal foot pain, remember that a variety of treatment and relief strategies can be found. Advancements in orthotic footwear and foot support have enabled effective relief for those who suffer from a variety of different forefoot conditions. Whether your condition is diagnosed or undiagnosed, you can always reach out to a podiatrist or physiotherapist for help. When orthotics and regular treatments are combined, the results can be life-changing. Learn more about how a physiotherapist can help you by clicking on the visit website link.