$Unique_ID{BRK01571}
$Pretitle{Musculoskeletal System and Connective Tissue}
$Title{What Can Rid One of a Pain in the Ball of the Foot?}
$Subject{foot pain metatarsal Musculoskeletal System Connective Tissue Ball
ligaments tendons muscles bones walk walking metatarsals metatarsalgia bunions
calluses stress fracture fractures feet Morton Morton's Neuroma shoes Tissues
ligament tendon muscle bone walks bunion callus pains}
$Volume{M-17}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Can Rid One of a Pain in the Ball of the Foot?


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QUESTION:  I have developed a most annoying and painful condition which is
preventing me from getting around as much as I want to.  It is a pain right in
the ball of my left foot, that sometimes feels like I have a stone in my shoe
when there is nothing there.  Is there something you can recommend to help me
get rid of the pain, and start back on my walking program?

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ANSWER:  It is pretty hard to make an exact diagnosis from the information you
have provided.  There are some 26 bones that make up your foot, bound together
by ligaments, and many tendons that link muscles to the bones and provide the
power that enables you to walk.  The area you describe, the ball of the foot,
is the area in which 5 slim bones, the metatarsals, are located.  Pain in this
location is known as "metatarsalgia" and can be the result of a number of
conditions.  When the skin in this area is irritated from bunions or calluses,
pain of this nature may result.  However, arthritis is often the cause, a
condition easily diagnosed with the help of an x-ray.  Sometimes physicians
are surprised to find a stress fracture present as the culprit.  Many people
who must stay on their feet a great deal, or who are overweight or even
pregnant, are at risk.  Sometimes a benign tumor of the nerve that passes
through this spot can be the cause of the pain (Morton's Neuroma).  While each
condition requires its own treatment strategy, there are a few general tips I
can offer.  Check your shoes for fit, and stay away from tight fitting shoes,
or those with high heels.  A metatarsal pad, carefully fitted by a podiatrist
or physician, may relieve the pressure that is causing the pain.  Many
over-the-counter pain medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
medications (NSAIDs) have been found useful.  Injections of corticosteroids
into the tender area may be used in rare cases, and surgery may be necessary
to remove a Morton's neuroma.  Your best course of action is to have a
thorough examination, and careful evaluation to help choose the best treatment
for your condition.  Don't delay, it probably won't disappear by itself.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.