The Ball of the Foot: A Complex Structural Region
The forefoot is one of the most mechanically loaded regions of the human body. During the push-off phase of walking, the full body weight concentrates across this small area with each step. Several distinct conditions can produce pain in this region, each with different underlying causes and optimal treatment strategies. Accurate diagnosis is the essential first step.
Metatarsalgia: Generalized Forefoot Pain
Metatarsalgia describes pain and inflammation at the metatarsal heads — the bony prominences at the ball of the foot. It typically presents as a burning, aching, or sharp pain that worsens with standing or walking and improves with rest. Common causes include high-heeled footwear, loss of the plantar fat pad, and biomechanical imbalances such as high arch or hammer toe deformities.
Morton's Neuroma: The Burning, Shooting Pain
Morton's neuroma involves thickening of the digital nerve as it passes between the third and fourth metatarsal heads. Patients describe the sensation as burning, electric shooting pain, or the feeling of standing on a pebble. Dr. Katz uses diagnostic ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis and measure neuroma size, which guides treatment selection.
Sesamoiditis: Pain Under the Big Toe Joint
Sesamoiditis produces a distinct, localized tenderness directly under the ball of the foot below the big toe. It is common in dancers, runners, and patients with high-arched feet. Treatment options range from offloading pads and custom orthotics to cortisone injection.
Schedule an appointment today and let Dr. Katz pinpoint exactly what is causing your symptoms. Explore all forefoot treatment options.