The metatarsal bones are the ones that form the structure of your toes. When there is excessive pressure on these bones, a nerve in the area can become compressed, causing numbness, tingling, and pain with a condition called metatarsalgia. The condition is more common in people who participate in vigorous sports and exercise activities. Wearing properly fitted shoes with orthotic supports can redirect pressure and treat and prevent the condition.

Metatarsalgia is associated with several factors, including the following:

1. Neuroma and neuropathy—These two conditions are nerve disorders that can cause considerable pain, numbness, and tingling, with the middle toes frequently being affected. These problems can occur in conjunction with metatarsalgia.
2. Participating in vigorous sports and exercise—Playing high impact sports and participating in vigorous activities like long-distance running can cause stress and pressure on the toe bones that can contribute to the development of the syndrome.
3. Complications from fractures—Fractures to the foot, particularly toe stress fractures, are often implicated in diagnosing of metatarsalgia. Your foot doctor may require imaging studies such as x rays or MRI scans to find hairline fractures and soft tissue damage.
4. Wearing shoes that don’t fit properly—Wearing athletic shoes that are old and excessively worn is a major culprit in developing metatarsalgia and other foot, ankle, knee, hip, and back problems. Talk to your foot doctor about orthotic inserts to prevent many of these types of issues.

Pain in the ball of your foot can be caused by various conditions that have very similar symptoms to metatarsalgia, which is why you should see your podiatrist for the proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations. 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.