Ball-of-foot pain

Metatarsalgia is pain under the ball of the foot, and it is a symptom rather than a diagnosis. The treatment depends entirely on whether the cause is a neuroma, a stress fracture, a fat pad that has thinned, or pressure from a deformity elsewhere.

What's Involved

Pressure mapping — Examination and gait assessment to find exactly where load is concentrating.
Imaging — On-site X-ray and ultrasound to identify stress fractures, neuromas, or capsulitis.
Offloading — Custom orthotics with metatarsal support to redistribute pressure.

When to Come In

Pain like walking on a stone — Discomfort under the ball of the foot when standing.
Worse barefoot or in thin shoes — Symptoms that ease with cushioning.
Callus under one metatarsal — A build-up marking where the load is going.

This content is for general information only and isn't medical advice. Results vary from person to person, so talk with your eye doctor about your own eyes. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.