The ball of the foot absorbs an enormous amount of pressure when you walk, work, exercise, and even when you just stand up. This nearly constant stress can cause the components of the foot to become stretched and pinched, causing conditions like capsulitis and neuroma with severe pain, numbness, and discomfort.

3 conditions that cause pain in the ball of the foot include the following:

• Capsulitis—Capsular ligaments help connect two bones together, and when these ligaments are irritated and inflamed from stress, injury, or disease, the result is a condition called capsulitis. It frequently occurs near the second toe, causing pain and discomfort in the ball of the foot. The pain and swelling can make it hard to wear shoes. People with a history of flat feet, bunions, and arthritis are more susceptible to developing capsulitis and other foot and ankle problems. If your second toe is longer than your big toe you are also more at risk.
• Morton’s neuroma—This nerve condition is caused by a thickening of tissues that surround one of the nerves that supply the toes. It can cause sharp burning pain and may become chronic if not treated properly.
• Metatarsalgia—This condition is caused by stress and overuse. It happens when the small nerves between the toes get pinched, causing pain and tingling sensations. The discomfort usually centers on the second toe causing pain in the ball of the foot.

Since a variety of conditions can cause pain and irritation in the ball of the foot, be sure to see your foot doctor for the proper diagnosis and treatment.

Call Syracuse Podiatry located in East Syracuse, New York. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Kathleen Pyatak-Hugar, and Dr. Donal M. Erickson and their staff will help you diagnose and treat your foot or ankle condition. Call 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online today.