Ball of the Foot Conditions
- Metatarsalgia
- Morton’s Neuroma
- Bursitis
- Capsulitis
- Plantar plate injury
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Stress Fractures
- Diabetic Foot Ulcer
- Corns and Calluses
- Blisters
Metatarsalgia
Metatarsalgia is a broad term used to describe pain across the ball off the foot at the metatarsals. A range of conditions can cause this such as capsulitis, bursitis, Morton’s neuroma, stress fractures, plantar plate injury etc.
Morton’s Neuroma
A Morton’s neuroma is a thickened and inflamed nerve in the forefoot. This causes pain, pins and needles, burning, numbness or tingling to develop under the ball of the foot and can extend to the toes.
Bursitis
A bursitis is an inflamed bursa, which commonly develops between or under the heads of the metatarsal bones. This causes pain and swelling under the ball of the foot.
Capsulitis
Plantar plate injury
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition which causes swelling and pain under the ball of the foot. It often progresses to bunion formation and toe deformities.
Stress Fractures
A stress fracture to the second metatarsal can develop from repetitive force applied over time. It often occurs in runners or people who stand for long periods of time. There will be localised pain and swelling over the fracture site.
Diabetic Foot Ulcer
A diabetic foot ulcer is a sore or a wound that can develop in those with diabetes. It usually occurs on the bottom of the foot or at the toes. These wounds can be very slow to heal and can deteriorate quickly. Prevention is the best management strategy.
Corns and Calluses
Corns are a build-up of hardened skin. On the toes they tend to develop where there is rubbing from shoes (hard corns) or in between the toes (soft corns). Thankfully, treatment is easy and painless!
Blisters
Most of us get blisters from time to time especially with new shoes or long walks. If you are prone to developing blisters with every new pair of shoes, then something may not be right with your footwear fit or choice. Podiatrists can help!
