The term “metatarsalgia” indicates pain throughout the forefoot, commonly referred to as the “the ball-of-the-foot”.
Pain develops due to prolonged and persistent pressure and friction. This can be aggravated with arthritis as well as improper footwear. Treatment involves identifying the cause. If improperly-fitting footwear is the cause, the footwear must be changed. Shoes with a rocker sole are ideal for treating metatarsalgia. Custom foot orthotics designed to unload pressure at the ball-of the foot will incorporate a metatarsal bar.