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Metatarsalgia
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Metatarsalgia at HCA UK
Why choose us?
Living with pain in the ball of your foot can feel limiting, but with HCA UK, you're in safe hands. Which is why 97% of patients said they would recommend us. Our orthopaedic team comprises expert orthopaedic consultants from across 10 specialist fields, and our dedicated foot and ankle specialists tailor treatment to your needs.
We use the latest imaging technology to quickly pinpoint the cause of your pain and recommend the most effective path to recovery.
We use the latest imaging technology to quickly pinpoint the cause of your pain and recommend the most effective path to recovery.
Metatarsalgia describes pain in the ball of your foot. It usually involves inflammation along the metatarsal bones, which run the length of your foot towards your toes. It's a common condition that you may experience when you put excess pressure on the foot, such as when you walk, jump or exercise.
Metatarsalgia is a symptom rather than a diagnosis, so your foot and ankle specialist will need to assess you to identify the cause before creating a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Metatarsalgia is a symptom rather than a diagnosis, so your foot and ankle specialist will need to assess you to identify the cause before creating a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
There are several risk factors that can lead to metatarsalgia. These include:
- Intense activity: This can be a common condition among long-distance runners, due to the constant stress put through the balls of the feet.
- Ill-fitting footwear: Shoes that push your toes together may cause pain. High-heeled shoes also put extra pressure on the balls of your feet.
- Foot shape: High foot arches and irregularly shaped toes can increase the likelihood of experiencing metatarsalgia.
- Excess weight: Carrying extra weight adds to the pressure that goes through your feet.
The causes of metatarsalgia are typically categorised into two main groups, primary and secondary metatarsalgia.
Primary metatarsalgia
This is when an issue with the metatarsals in your foot is directly causing you discomfort. Some common examples of primary metatarsalgia are:
Calluses: If hard skin forms on your feet, it can result in pain and affect the way you walk. If this adds pressure to the balls of your feet, metatarsalgia may develop.
Bunions: A bunion is a lump of bone that forms at the bottom of your big toe, often as a result of long-term pressure moving it towards the rest of your toes. As your toes move out of alignment, the pressure can cause pain across the balls of your feet.
Foot shape: High foot arches can result in added pressure on the balls of your feet, while having a second toe longer than your big toe also may create an imbalance across your metatarsals.
Hammertoes: A deformity where the toes become rigidly bent. This may cause your metatarsals to move closer to the bottom of your foot, resulting in pain and discomfort.
Secondary metatarsalgia
Secondary metatarsalgia refers to pain and discomfort caused by an underlying condition or trauma, such as:
Injury: Inflammation of the metatarsals can occur as a result of prolonged, strenuous activity, such as running or jumping.
Diseases: Diabetes can result in nerve damage in the feet and cause conditions such as metatarsalgia.
Conditions:
Primary metatarsalgia
This is when an issue with the metatarsals in your foot is directly causing you discomfort. Some common examples of primary metatarsalgia are:
Calluses: If hard skin forms on your feet, it can result in pain and affect the way you walk. If this adds pressure to the balls of your feet, metatarsalgia may develop.
Bunions: A bunion is a lump of bone that forms at the bottom of your big toe, often as a result of long-term pressure moving it towards the rest of your toes. As your toes move out of alignment, the pressure can cause pain across the balls of your feet.
Foot shape: High foot arches can result in added pressure on the balls of your feet, while having a second toe longer than your big toe also may create an imbalance across your metatarsals.
Hammertoes: A deformity where the toes become rigidly bent. This may cause your metatarsals to move closer to the bottom of your foot, resulting in pain and discomfort.
Secondary metatarsalgia
Secondary metatarsalgia refers to pain and discomfort caused by an underlying condition or trauma, such as:
Injury: Inflammation of the metatarsals can occur as a result of prolonged, strenuous activity, such as running or jumping.
Diseases: Diabetes can result in nerve damage in the feet and cause conditions such as metatarsalgia.
Conditions:
- Obesity can be an underlying cause of foot conditions, as increased body mass puts extra strain on the feet.
- Rheumatoid arthritis can cause swelling and pain in your feet.
- Morton's neuroma is an inflammatory condition of the nerves between the toes that can cause metatarsalgia.
Symptoms of metatarsalgia include:
- Pain in the ball of your foot on weight-bearing, sometimes associated with certain shoe types or a change in footwear.
- A burning or aching feeling or numbness in your toes.
- A feeling like you are walking with a stone in your sock.
No.1
in London for private orthopaedic care
10
specialist orthopaedic fields offering personalised treatment
97%
of our patients are likely to recommend us to family and friends
Fast access to specialists
appointments bookable online or by phone
Expert orthopaedic treatments
from specialist foot and ankle consultants
State-of-the-art diagnostics
with results in as little as 48 hours
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Metatarsalgia tests and scans at HCA UK
Fast access to orthopaedic specialists
Metatarsalgia is typically diagnosed following a simple physical examination of your foot. Your orthopaedic consultant will discuss your symptoms with you to help make a diagnosis. They will take a history of your activity levels and examine your biomechanical alignment and your footwear.
To help reach a diagnosis and rule out conditions such as sprains and strains, bursitis, arthritis, Morton's neuroma, bunions and stress fractures, you may be offered:
To help reach a diagnosis and rule out conditions such as sprains and strains, bursitis, arthritis, Morton's neuroma, bunions and stress fractures, you may be offered:
- X-ray
- Ultrasound scan
- MRI scan
- Gait or biomechanical analysis
- CT scan
- Blood tests
Metatarsalgia treatments at HCA UK
Expert orthopaedic treatments
Most people with metatarsalgia find that simple steps can make a big difference. By easing pressure on your foot and giving it the right support, you can often reduce pain and move more comfortably. Your consultant will listen to your symptoms and guide you to the best approach.
Treatment options range from self-care to more advanced support. In many cases, small changes are enough, but surgery may be considered if pain continues.
Common treatments include:
Treatment options range from self-care to more advanced support. In many cases, small changes are enough, but surgery may be considered if pain continues.
Common treatments include:
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Rest and ice
- Stretching exercises
- Supportive footwear
- Foot orthotics
- Osteotomy or surgery
Accessing private healthcare
Self-pay
You don’t need health insurance to be seen quickly. If you’re looking for a diagnosis or treatment and don’t want to wait, all our private healthcare services – from private GP appointments through to surgery and aftercare – can be paid for as and when you need them.
And to give you peace of mind from the start, we’ll offer you a clear and transparent quote outlining exactly what treatments you’re paying for.
Find out more
Metatarsalgia FAQs
Yes, you can reduce your risk by taking good care of your feet. Wear supportive shoes with room for your toes and avoid wearing high heels. Regular stretches and staying active can also help. Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your feet and decrease the likelihood of metatarsalgia.
If you have tried other measures, such as a change in footwear, physiotherapy and pain medication without improvement in your symptoms, a foot and ankle consultant will advise on the best course of treatment if you are struggling with everyday activities or hobbies.
You may require emergency treatment if you experience severe pain in the ball of the foot, feel a snapping or popping sensation or are unable to walk.
You may require emergency treatment if you experience severe pain in the ball of the foot, feel a snapping or popping sensation or are unable to walk.
Everyone's recovery time is different. Some people feel better in just a few weeks with rest and supportive footwear, while others may take longer. If your pain doesn't settle within a couple of months, a specialist can help determine the cause and guide you toward the most effective treatment.
With the right support, most people experience steady improvement and can return to their normal activities.
With the right support, most people experience steady improvement and can return to their normal activities.
In some cases, yes. Resting, switching to cushioned shoes and using simple insoles can often make the pain fade over time. However, if discomfort persists or recurs, you'll usually require additional support.
Seeing a foot and ankle specialist ensures the cause is properly managed, so the problem doesn't become long-term. Acting early gives you the best chance of getting back to comfortable movement.
Seeing a foot and ankle specialist ensures the cause is properly managed, so the problem doesn't become long-term. Acting early gives you the best chance of getting back to comfortable movement.
No, it’s rarely serious. However, it can cause a lot of discomfort and affect your daily life if left untreated. Over time, metatarsalgia can alter your walking pattern and place strain on your knees, hips, or back. Managing it promptly can help you get back to your normal activities.
Anyone can develop metatarsalgia, but it's more common in people who run, jump or spend long hours on their feet. Older adults are more likely to notice it as feet naturally change with age, losing padding at the front.
Women who wear high heels regularly may also be at greater risk. Knowing your risk factors can help you make small choices that protect your feet.
Women who wear high heels regularly may also be at greater risk. Knowing your risk factors can help you make small choices that protect your feet.
Yes, it can affect one or both feet. With the right support, both feet can improve and return to normal comfort.
Yes, if the underlying cause isn't addressed or you stop following guidance from your foot and ankle specialist, then you may be at risk of metatarsalgia recurring. Following simple daily habits can help protect your feet and prevent metatarsalgia from returning.
Metatarsalgia describes general pain in the ball of your foot, often caused by pressure or inflammation. Morton's neuroma is different, as it involves a nerve between the toes becoming irritated.
Morton's neuroma typically causes burning pain, tingling or numbness. A foot and ankle specialist can identify which condition is causing your discomfort. Understanding the difference helps make sure you receive the most effective treatment for your needs.
Morton's neuroma typically causes burning pain, tingling or numbness. A foot and ankle specialist can identify which condition is causing your discomfort. Understanding the difference helps make sure you receive the most effective treatment for your needs.
Metatarsalgia is a common condition. Many adults experience pain in the ball of the foot at some stage in life, whether mild or more persistent. Although it can be frustrating, it's usually very manageable, and most people feel much better once they get the right advice and support. Because it affects people of all ages, it's important to know it's nothing unusual or rare.
You can often ease symptoms by resting your feet, applying ice packs and wearing cushioned shoes with room for your toes. Gentle stretches for your calves and ankles can also help reduce pressure. Painkillers may provide short-term relief, but supportive footwear and self-care usually make the biggest difference.
Our orthopaedic consultants have the knowledge and experience to identify the cause of your discomfort and alleviate the pain in the ball of your foot.
Here's how to book an appointment.
Here's how to book an appointment.
- Call 020 3214 3424 or book online.
- Keep any referral letters you've received so we can take as much detail as possible.
- We will either schedule your appointment immediately or confirm within 24 hours. We can also discuss your payment options with you if necessary
Our patient stories
A cure for ankle pain: Jane’s road to recovery
When Jane first injured her ankle, the pain was horrendous. However, showing incredible strength of will and character, she strapped it up and carried on as best she could until she got around to having surgery - more than two decades later!
Marinella’s story: Looking through the keyhole at bunions and foot health
For finance professional, Marinella, from Tunbridge Wells in Kent, ongoing pain in her feet and a change in their appearance prompted her to seek answers
Timothys story preserving diabetic foot
Timothy, aged 77, lives and works on a conservation farm in Zambia, Southern Africa. He has Type 2 diabetes with diabetic neuropathy but keeps an active lifestyle as a farmer by tending to giraffes, zebras and buffalo.
“With hindsight, I should have dealt with my problems a long time ago. I'd say to anyone else in my position that if you're not sure about anything, you should seek the help of a specialist”
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.