What Causes Pain in the Ball of My Foot—and How Do I Fix It?

What Is Metatarsalgia?

Metatarsalgia is a general term for pain and inflammation in the ball of your foot, just behind your toes. It typically affects the metatarsal heads—the bones that bear your weight when you walk or stand.

It might feel like:

• A burning or aching pain under your foot

• Sharp pain when stepping off your toes

• A sensation like you’re walking on a pebble

What Causes Metatarsalgia?

There isn’t one single cause, but several factors can contribute:

• Overuse or high-impact activities (like running or jumping)

• Foot structure issues (flat feet, high arches, long second toes)

• Poor footwear (unsupportive shoes, high heels, or tight toe boxes)

• Weight gain (more pressure on the forefoot)

• Previous injuries (such as stress fractures)

• Medical conditions (arthritis, diabetes, or Morton’s neuroma)

 Common Symptoms

If you’re wondering whether your foot pain is Metatarsalgia, here are signs to watch for:

• Pain in the ball of your foot when standing, walking, or running

• Burning or tingling sensation under the toes

• Numbness or shooting pain in the forefoot

• Worse pain when barefoot or wearing unsupportive shoes

 Best Shoes for Ball of Foot Pain

The wrong shoes can make Metatarsalgia worse. Look for:

Cushioned soles — especially under the ball of the foot
Wide toe box — to reduce pressure on the forefoot
Arch support — to improve weight distribution
Low or no heel — high heels shift your weight forward
Shock absorption — to reduce ground impact

Avoid flip-flops, thin-soled shoes, or worn-out sneakers.

Home Remedies for Metatarsalgia

You don’t always need a doctor right away — try these simple fixes first:

• Rest your feet and avoid high-impact activities

• Ice the painful area to reduce inflammation

• Use metatarsal pads or cushioned inserts

• Massage and stretch your feet and calves

• Wear supportive shoes even at home (avoid walking barefoot)

If symptoms don’t improve in 1–2 weeks, it’s time to get checked out.

What About Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics are one of the most effective treatments for Metatarsalgia. These are doctor-prescribed shoe inserts designed to:

• Offload pressure from the metatarsals

• Support your arch and heel

• Improve your walking mechanics

At our Plano podiatry clinic, we offer custom orthotics molded to your feet to relieve pain and prevent future flare-ups.

 FAQs About Metatarsalgia

 Is Metatarsalgia permanent?

Usually not! With the right care—rest, proper shoes, and orthotics—most people recover fully.

 Can I still run with Metatarsalgia?

You might need to cut back temporarily. Cross-training (like swimming or cycling) can keep you active without stressing your feet.

When should I see a podiatrist?

If your foot pain lasts longer than 2 weeks or worsens over time, it’s smart to see a foot specialist for an evaluation.

Don’t Let Foot Pain Slow You Down

Foot pain isn’t something you should just “deal with.” If you're struggling with persistent pain in the ball of your foot, let us help you get back to walking and running comfortably. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Gireesh Reddy or Dr. Sirisha Pokala by calling (469) 573-3427 or by booking an appointment online.