Metatarsalgia Treatment Specialist Q&A

Metatarsalgia, often referred to as stone bruise, is a common foot condition characterized by pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot. This is the area where the long bones in your foot, referred to as the metatarsals, connect to your toes. It’s commonly caused by high-impact activities, poorly fitting footwear, or foot deformities, and it may feel as if you’re walking on pebbles.
 
At Bay Area Foot and Ankle Associates, our Metatarsalgia specialists can provide a comprehensive exam to diagnose the cause of your discomfort. We will then work with you to develop an individualized plan for treatment. This may include rest, anti-inflammatory medications, changes in footwear, or custom orthotics. Our goal is to provide you with the relief and comfort that you need for your feet to remain healthy and active.

Metatarsalgia has several potential causes, often stemming from factors that put excess pressure on the metatarsals. Among the most common causes are high-impact sports and physical activities such as running or jumping, which can lead to overuse and strain on the foot. Another common cause is improperly fitting shoes—high heels or tight shoes can put undue stress on the metatarsals. Foot deformities including hammer toe and bunions, can also lead to Metatarsalgia. Additional risk factors include being overweight, aging, and certain medical conditions such as arthritis and gout that can result in inflammation and pain in the foot.

The symptoms of metatarsalgia can manifest in various ways, with the most notable being a sharp, burning, or aching pain in the ball of your foot—the area just behind your toes. This pain might intensify when you stand, walk, or run, and decrease when you rest. You might also experience a feeling of having a pebble in your shoe, or numbness and tingling in your toes. It’s important to note that the symptoms may develop gradually over time, particularly if metatarsalgia is due to overuse injuries, or they may come on suddenly if it’s due to an acute injury.

If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms of metatarsalgia, it’s crucial to seek professional advice. While a general doctor is capable of diagnosing the condition, a podiatrist, such as the Metatarsalgia treatment specialists at Bay Area Foot and Ankle Associates, has a more specific and in-depth understanding of foot conditions and treatments. Podiatrists are trained to diagnose and treat conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg, making them ideally suited to handle cases of metatarsalgia. They can provide a comprehensive diagnosis and personalized treatment plan, using their specialized knowledge to not only address the symptoms but also to target the underlying cause of the problem.

Don’t let persistent foot pain hinder your daily activities or reduce your quality of life. Metatarsalgia is treatable, and our team at Bay Area Foot and Ankle Associates is ready to help. With our tailored approach to treatment, we aim to get you back on your feet and enjoying your usual activities as quickly as possible. To discuss your symptoms and explore your treatment options, contact us or book an appointment online. We’re looking forward to helping you regain comfort and mobility. We have convenient locations to serve you in Walnut Creek, CA, and Brentwood, CA. We serve patients from Walnut Creek CA, Brentwood CA, Pittsburg CA, Danville CA, Pleasant Hill CA, Antioch CA, Oakley CA, Concord CA, Alamo CA, and surrounding areas.