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Ball - Metatarsal

The ball or metatarsal is the padded area of the foot where all five toes are joined together between the toes and the beginning of the arch. The ball of the foot can be easily blistered and callused due to the daily grinding on this area of the foot. When walking or running, you usually push off from the ball of the foot before your toes bend and push off from the ground. The ball of the foot allows you to balance, especially during activities that require running.

Due to the excessive pounding that can be placed on the metatarsal (ball), metatarsalgia is a common painful foot condition that affects the joints and bones of the ball of the foot. Causes of this condition include:

  • Excessive pressure on the ball over time
  • A narrow toe area
  • Highly restrictive footwear
  • Footwear that fits improperly
  • Age or loss of padding in the ball
  • A very high heeled shoe
  • Wearing shoes unsuitable for the activity

Metatarsalgia is the result when the area becomes inflamed and irritated. This can become a chronic, persistent problem, caused by shoes that fit the foot improperly or that are incredibly restrictive, such as women’s dress shoes. If the heel of a shoe is too high or if the shoe has a very narrow toe area it inhibits the walking process and could result in too much stress on the ball of the foot.  If you engage in high impact athletic activities, it is important to wear the proper shoes to minimize the risk of metatarsalgia. This condition, as mentioned before, can be prevented. Its symptoms can be relieved by the use of orthotic padding, gel cushions and bandages. Metatarsalgia can be prevented by wearing shoes designed for your foot type and by avoiding shoes that inhibit your walking style.