Metatarsalgia Physiotherapy Treatment for Foot Pain

Metatarsalgia, a common overuse injury, is characterized by pain and inflammation in the ball of your foot, often associated with high-impact activities like running and jumping. This discomfort can sideline you from your favourite activities, but with the right approach, you can manage the symptoms and get back on your feet.

Physiotherapy can help to improve foot mechanics and reduce stress on the painful areas of your foot. It can also help strengthen the muscles and ligaments around the affected joint, relieving pain.

At Opal Physiotherapy, Langley, we offer treatments that can help relieve your metatarsalgia pain and get you back on your feet.

What is metatarsalgia?

Metatarsalgia is distinguished by pain and inflammation in the base of the toes, specifically around the metatarsal bones. These are the long bones between the arch of the foot and the toes.

It is often associated with overuse or excessive pressure on the forefoot, leading to discomfort and pain during weight-bearing activities.

While there is no cure for metatarsalgia, there are treatments that can help relieve the pain and improve your quality of life.

Early intervention and appropriate management can help alleviate symptoms and prevent long-term complications.

Causes of metatarsalgia

Metatarsalgia can be triggered by a variety of factors, which may include:

Overuse and high-impact activities: Intense training involving excessive running, jumping, or prolonged standing periods can strain the metatarsal region, leading to this condition
Improper footwear: Poorly fitting or unsupportive shoes, especially those with high heels that transfer extra weight to the front of the foot, can contribute to metatarsalgia.
Foot deformities: Certain foot shapes and deformities, such as a bunion, high arch or hammertoe deformity, can also contribute to metatarsalgia.
Aging: As individuals age, the fat pad on the foot’s sole may thin, resulting in less cushioning for the metatarsal bones.
Foot trauma: Injuries or trauma to the foot can lead to metatarsalgia. Stress fractures in the metatarsals or toe bones can be painful and alter how you put weight on your foot.
Overweight: Excess weight is another risk factor, as it puts more pressure on your metatarsals.
Other causes: Morton’s neuroma, a noncancerous growth of fibrous tissue around a nerve, can cause symptoms similar to metatarsalgia.

Symptoms of metatarsalgia

Pain and discomfort: A sharp, aching, or persistent pain in the ball of your foot, just behind your toes
Burning or tingling sensation: Some individuals may experience a sensation of burning or tingling.
Swelling and inflammation: The affected area may become swollen and tender.
Worsening pain with activity: Pain may intensify during weight-bearing activities like standing, running, flexing your forefoot, or walking on a hard surface, and it often improves when you rest.

Risk factors for metatarsalgia

Almost anyone can develop this condition, but certain factors increase your risk. These include

Foot structure: Certain foot shapes or deformities increase the risk.
Footwear choices: High heels or shoes with inadequate support.
High-Impact sports: Participation in sports or activities that involve running and jumping.
Age: Older individuals may be more susceptible due to changes in foot structure

Being overweight or obese and having other foot problems can also increase the risk of having metatarsalgia.

Treatments for metatarsalgia

Metatarsalgia treatment primarily focuses on easing discomfort and pain.

Rest and ice: Home remedies include resting, applying a cool compress, avoiding standing for long periods, and raising the feet when resting.
Stretching: Stretching your toes and ankles regularly helps increase flexibility and range of motion in the joints.
Footwear modification: Wearing appropriate shoes with proper arch support and cushioning using metatarsal pads can help relieve pressure on your metatarsals and alleviate symptoms. Semi-rigid orthoses worn in supportive shoes have shown to be an effective treatment for metatarsalgia
Orthotic inserts: Custom or over-the-counter inserts can provide additional support.
Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and inflammation.
Physical therapy: Specific exercises to strengthen foot muscles and improve gait may be beneficial.

If conservative measures don’t relieve your pain, your doctor may recommend specific treatments depending on the cause of the metatarsal pain. These can include prescription medications, steroid injections to reduce pain and swelling, or even surgery in some cases.

Physiotherapy treatment for metatarsalgia

Physiotherapy can be an effective treatment option for many people with metatarsalgia. Physiotherapy can help to reduce pain and inflammation, improve joint range of motion, and increase strength and flexibility. Physiotherapy treatment focuses on:

Stretching exercises: Targeted stretches can improve flexibility and reduce metatarsal strain.
Strengthening exercises: Building strength in the muscles supporting the foot can enhance stability.
Ultrasound therapy: Utilizing therapeutic ultrasound waves to promote healing and reduce inflammation.
Massage and manual therapy: Techniques to release tension and improve blood flow in the surrounding muscles and joints.
Gait analysis and training: Assessing and correcting abnormal walking patterns to alleviate pressure on the affected area.

Metatarsalgia is a common condition that can cause significant discomfort. However, with the right treatment approach, including lifestyle modifications, home remedies, and physiotherapy, you can manage the symptoms and return to your regular activities.

Always consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

At Opal Physio, our experienced physiotherapists are trained to diagnose and treat metatarsalgia and other related conditions.

We use manual therapy techniques, exercise programs, stretching exercises, and custom orthotics to help relieve symptoms.

We will work with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs to help reduce your metatarsal pain and improve your mobility.

If you’re suffering from metatarsalgia and looking for a physiotherapy treatment that can help you get back to your life, contact our physiotherapist today. We’ll work with you to find the right treatment plan for you.