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Definition

By Mayo Clinic staff

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Illustration of metatarsalgia Metatarsalgia

Metatarsalgia is a condition marked by pain and inflammation in the ball of your foot.

You may experience metatarsalgia if you're physically active and you participate in activities that involve running and jumping. Or, you may develop metatarsalgia by wearing ill-fitting shoes. There are other causes as well.

Although generally not serious, metatarsalgia can sideline you. Fortunately, conservative treatments, such as ice and rest, can often relieve metatarsalgia symptoms. And proper footwear, along with shock-absorbing insoles or arch supports, may be all you need to prevent or minimize future problems with metatarsalgia.

Symptoms
References
  1. Maguire S. Metatarsalgia. In: Frontera WR, et al. Essentials of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation: Musculoskeletal Disorders, Pain, and Rehabilitation. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2008. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/208746819-6/0/1678/0.html. Accessed Dec. 9, 2010.
  2. Metatarsalgia. The American College of Foot & Ankle Orthopedics & Medicine. http://www.acfaom.org/metatarsalgia.shtml. Accessed Dec. 9, 2010.
  3. Bunions. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00155. Accessed Dec. 9, 2010.
  4. Morton's neuroma. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00158. Accessed Dec. 9, 2010.
  5. Mann JA, et al. Foot & ankle surgery. In: Skinner HB. Current Diagnosis & Treatment in Orthopedics. 4th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill Medical; 2006. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=2321820. Accessed Dec. 9, 2010.
  6. Callahan LR, et al. Overview of running injuries of the lower extremity. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Dec. 9, 2010.
DS00496 Jan. 25, 2011

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