sore foot

Metatarsal Foot Pain

Metatarsal foot pain simply means a sore bone in the forefoot. When pain and inflammation sets into the ball of your foot, chances are you might be having metatarsalgia. Metatarsalgia is characterized by constant intense pain that gets worse after a long period of physical activities. People with these symptoms feel some numbness or tingling which worsens when they relax their feet.

So, just who is prone to metatarsalgia?

This foot condition is common among athletes who use their feet excessively, such as players who enjoy soccer, tennis, basketball, and gymnastics. Although it is not a critical condition, it can certainly decrease your ability to perform at your highest level, especially if you are a professional athlete.

Women who wear high-heeled shoes are also potential candidates for this disorder. High-heeled shoes put an extra weight on the forefeet and shoes that are too tight may curl up your toes. All the perfect storm to set up foot pain like no other.

Athletes who are not wearing recommended shoes for the kind of sports they play are also prone to this condition. For instance, if you are a tennis player, then it is only appropriate that you wear tennis shoes and not any other kind of shoes. Specialized shoes for specific sports have padded materials in the right places where it helps lessen the pressure on your feet.

People who are overweight can also be prone to this malady, since the extra weight adds more pressure in your feet.

People with other underlying foot problems such high arches and those who have a longer second toe may also be prone to this condition. Also those who have hammertoes, arthritis, and gout may be impacted since these are potential risk factors for the development of additional foot problems.

Though often associated with improper foot care, over working your feet can also cause the problem. You want to take care of your feet and not abuse them. Wearing improper foot wear can also be an issue and so you might even consider wearing orthotics to give your feet an extra boost of support. The generally accepted remedy for metatarsal foot pain is rest and naturally, prevention. Soaking your feet in cold water may sometimes help in reducing the pain.

So, if you are battling metatarsal foot pain, think about doing something nice for your feet…maybe a little rest or better shoes or even a cool soaking. After all, your feet deserve to be treated well, they carry you around all day.