Forefoot pain (metatarsalgia)
Metatarsalgia is pain under the ball of the foot, at the level of the metatarsal bones. Often the transverse arch has collapsed (splay foot), so the metatarsal heads take too much pressure.
Symptoms and causes
- Burning, stabbing or aching pain under the ball of the foot
- A feeling of walking on a pebble
- Calluses under the forefoot
- Worse on hard surfaces, in heels or when running
Causes include splay foot or high arches, hammer toes, narrow shoes and heels, and rheumatism.
How handmade insoles help
A handmade insole with a metatarsal pad – a small raise just behind the ball of the foot – supports the transverse arch and takes pressure off the painful heads. Soft padding and a cut-out under the most painful spot spread the load further. Research shows custom insoles reduce forefoot pain, including in rheumatism and hallux valgus.
What you can do – and when to see a doctor
Wear shoes with a wide toe box and a low heel, and avoid long walks on hard surfaces while the pain persists.
If the pain does not improve after a few weeks, if there is swelling, redness or loss of sensation, or if you have diabetes or rheumatism, also have the complaint assessed by your GP.
Scientific evidence
- Custom orthoses reduced forefoot pain in rheumatoid arthritis, hallux valgus and metatarsalgia by redistributing pressure under the forefoot. Arias-Martín I, Reina-Bueno M, Munuera-Martínez PV Effectiveness of custom-made foot orthoses for treating forefoot pain: a systematic review. Int Orthop. 2018;42:1865-1875. PubMed 29423640
Trouble with your feet? We are happy to help.
First consultation usually within 1 week, in Oldenzaal, Denekamp or Losser.