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| Metatarsalgia is a condition where the metatarsal region of the foot, also commonly referred to as the ball-of-the-foot and is located just behind the toes, becomes painful and inflamed. The term metatarsalgia refers to the metatarsal, which is the area in the forefoot containing five bones, and gia, meaning pain in an area. The metatarsal bones run through the forefoot from the arch in the mid-foot to the base of the toe joints. Pain associated with metatarsalgia is usually most noticeable in the area behind the smaller toes, particularly the second, third, and forth metatarsal heads. Isolated pain can also be present behind the big toe as well. Often, the pain is a dull ache or a sharp pain throughout the bottom of the foot. Other symptoms may include numbness or tingling in the toes or callusing that develops on the middle toes. Symptoms of metatarsalgia may often diminish with rest. Metatarsalgia can usually develop from poor shoes or an improper posture during movement. Generally, when excessive pressure is placed on the metatarsal region for prolonged periods of time, metatarsalgia can develop. Another factor in the development of the condition is poor fitting shoes, particularly among women who wear high heeled dress shoes. Sometimes these heels can be too high, placing too much pressure on the ball-of-the-foot over a period of time. In addition, participating in active sports without proper footwear, or wearing shoes that simply do not fit, can also add excessive pressure to this region. In some cases, other foot conditions can contribute to pain in the metatarsal region. Bunions and arthritis are some examples which can also lead to the development of this ailment. Pronation and arches that become strained can also contribute to forefoot pain. The first way to treat metatarsalgia is to identify the source of the problem. Often times the shoes you are wearing are responsible for added pressure to this area. If this is the source, it’s important to avoid wearing these shoes for prolonged periods of time. Oral anti-inflammatory medications as well as cortisone injections can relieve some pain, although these are generally short term treatment options and do not address the biomechanical problems that are causing this condition. Applying ice to the area is also a good way to decrease any swelling if swelling is present. Additionally, there are stretches available that can help strengthen the area of the forefoot and improve flexibility, reducing chances of a recurrence of metatarsalgia. Physical therapy may also be an option. Surgery is usually not the best way to treat this condition since more conservative treatment methods are usually more appropriate. Surgery procedures may vary based on the specific cause and/or condition that is contributing to your case of metatarsalgia. Among the most effective ways to treat metatarsalgia is to use an orthotic device in your shoe which can correct the biomechanical problems that are contributing to pain in the forefoot. These devices are not merely a short term relief from pain, but rather a way to treat the source of the pain and keep it from developing again in the long term. An orthotic can easily slip into your shoes and works to distribute weight evenly throughout the heel and arch, relieving pressure from the metatarsal region. HTP Heel Seats is one such orthotic device that is composed of a material specifically designed to be strong and durable while also having the ability to flex as you walk, moving with the contours of your feet. These Heel Seats can reduce the symptoms of metatarsalgia by adding acupressure, support, and reinforcement while your weight shifts. The design of this insert allows them to effectively treat forefoot pain from metatarsalgia as they seamlessly integrate into your daily lifestyle. When combined with rest HTP Heel Seats can significantly reduce the discomfort of forefoot pain and correct the condition that has developed. |
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