WHY DOES THE BALL OF MY FOOT HURT?
Pain in the balls of the feet can really impact your daily life. The metatarsal bones, which are the long bones of the foot and toes, bear our weight when we walk and run. If the heads of the metatarsal bones become inflamed, usually because of excessive pressure over time, it hurts!
Common Causes
Overuse (i.e. sports)
Thinning of your natural fat padding on the bottom of your feet.
Arthritis
Poorly fitting shoes or improper shoes
NEUROMA
A neuroma is a painful condition, also referred to as a “pinched nerve” or a benign nerve swelling. It is frequently found between the third and fourth toes. It brings on pain, a burning sensation, tingling, or numbness between the toes and in the ball of the foot. Those suffering from the condition often find relief by stopping their walk, taking off their shoe, and rubbing the affected area. At times, the patient will describe the pain as similar to having a stone in his or her shoe.
CAPSULITIS
This is when the tissue around the joint becomes inflamed. The joint capsule is the tissue that surrounds the joint and helps to hold it in place. This capsule holds fluid to keep the joints well lubricated for proper function. Capsulitis is most common in those who stand or walk without the protection of proper footwear.
SESAMOIDITIS
This is a pain under the great toe where it meets the foot. Symptoms usually come on gradually and become persistent. It can be associated with tenderness, swelling, redness and bruising. The pain starts out as a dull ache and will increase to an intense pain or even throbbing during activity. I
STRESS FRACTURES
Stress fracture are related to over use during everyday activities. The are not usually from a direct injury or trauma. They tend to build in intensity over time. Symptoms include pain and swelling that worsen during activity and ease up when you’re at rest. Sometimes the area over the bone might feel tender to the touch. In many cases, at the stress fracture develops, patients will start seeing swelling on the top of the foot.