Metatarsal pain: Metatarsalgia

Is a broad term describing pain in the metatarsal (forefoot ) area. Metatarsals are the long bones in your foot. Their role is to help you push off when running or walking. The anatomical structures of this area are complex with many joints, nerves, ligaments and muscles involved. All these structures can become implicated in pain in the forefoot or metatarsalgia.

Treatment: As there are many different conditions that can cause metatarsal pain, careful assessment is required to diagnose and treat effectively. Your treatment plan may include footwear advice, modification of activity, offloading orthotics, taping or strapping and stretching and strengthening exercises

Some causes of metatarsal pain are:

  • Plantar plate tear
  • Morton’s neuroma
  • Bursitis
  • Arthritic conditions
  • Sesamoiditis