Experiencing sharp pain in the ball of your foot means you may be suffering from a condition called metatarsalgia. It is characterized by an inflammation that occurs near the middle toe bones in the ball of the foot. It can often be treated with rest, icing, and custom orthotics to redistribute stress and pressure. Many other conditions cause pain in the ball of the foot, and they can mimic each other, so be sure to see your foot doctor for the right diagnosis and treatment.

Some common causes of pain in the ball of the foot include the following:

• Stress fractures—Tiny breaks in the metatarsal bones (your toe bones) can cause intense pain in the ball of the foot.
• Toe deformities—People who experience problems with hammertoes and bunions are more likely to experience pain in the ball of the foot.
• Stress and pressure from working, sports, and exercise—Since the front of each foot absorbs a lot of pressure during activities like working, long-distance running, or playing high impact sports, problems with the ball of the foot are more likely.
• Arch problems—Arch abnormalities like flat feet or high arches can increase pressure on the metatarsals and cause pain in the ball of the foot.

Pain in the ball of the foot caused by metatarsalgia will often respond well to rest and cold therapy. Other causes, such as neuroma or fracture, may require a surgical procedure to treat properly.

Since pain and discomfort in the ball of the foot can be hard to trace, it is important to see your foot doctor for the right care. Call Syracuse Podiatry located in East Syracuse, New York. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, 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.