Treatment of metatarsalgia typically requires little more than rest and at home treatment. An issue of inflammation, metatarsalgia is often treated by eliminating high intensity exercise or use, stretching and other lifestyle remedies. Additionally, ice applied to the site of pain also helps relieve the condition.
What is Metatarsalgia?
Metatarsalgia is a condition that is characterized by pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot. Often a result of overuse, the condition is often well treated with simple changes and is an acute condition.
The condition may manifest differently in different individuals; however, several common symptoms are known. A sharp aching or burning in the ball of the foot, pain between the second to fourth toes, pain the gets worse with use, numbness or tingling in the foot or toes and pain that increases when walking barefoot are all signs of metatarsalgia.
Metatarsalgia is typically caused by the interaction of several factors. Intense training or activity, a high arch, hammertoe syndrome, a bunion, excess weight, poorly fitting shoes, stress fractures and Morton’s neuroma may all contribute to metatarsalgia.
Home Remedies for Inflammation of the Metatarsals
Medical treatment including pain medication and surgery are rarely necessary for treating metatarsalgia. More often the condition is well treated using simple home remedies. Rest, stretching and properly fitted shoes are typically enough to eliminate pain and prevent further issue.
Rest
As metatarsalgia is most often a condition of overuse, resting the affected foot is important to relieve pain and strain. Eliminating high impact exercises and exchanging them for low-impact versions including swimming or cycling take the stress of the foot. Additionally, icing the foot and elevating it helps decrease inflammation and associated pain.
Stretching
Metatarsalgia often occurs as a change in the way the foot mechanically functions is changed. Stretching the feet and ankles as well as the legs and hips helps maintain alignment in the body and prevent disproportionate weight distribution. Stretching helps maintain the function of the body and prevent strain.
Properly Fitted Shoes
Properly fitted shoes complete with arch supports, shock-absorbing insoles and metatarsal pads as needed is one of the best options for eliminating metatarsalgia. Shoes that fit properly align the feet and prevent stress on any pressure points.
Metatarsalgia is a fairly simple condition that results in inflammation and pain in the ball of the foot. Regulating use, supporting the foot and resting as needed; however, can prevent stress on the feet and eliminate the issue.
