Metatarsalgia — ball-of-foot pain
Pain across the ball of the foot — worse barefoot, worse with activity — often points to extra pressure on the bones just behind the toes.
What it is
Metatarsalgia is pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, the area between the arch and the toes, usually from overuse or uneven pressure on the metatarsal bones.
Footwear, foot shape, and toe deformities such as hammertoe can all contribute to where and how that pressure builds.
Common symptoms
- Aching or burning pain in the ball of the foot
- A sensation of a stone or pebble underfoot
- Callus formation and swelling near the base of the toes
How Dr. Feldman treats it
Dr. Feldman typically starts with shoe changes, a metatarsal pad or custom orthotic, and activity modification to redistribute pressure away from the affected area.
Surgery is rarely needed, but may be considered when a structural cause — such as a toe deformity or bone misalignment — doesn't respond to conservative care.
Ready to get back on your feet?
Request an appointment online, or call the office — we see patients in Bethesda and Germantown.