Metatarsalgia Treatment in Newtown & Warminster

Relieve Joint & Ball of Foot Pain in Southeastern Pennsylvania & Beyond

Are you experiencing pain or a stabbing sensation in the joints or balls of your feet when you walk or stand for prolonged periods? If yes, you may have metatarsalgia or swelling in the areas of the balls of your feet. Pre-existing conditions may cause you to put more pressure on the balls of your feet which only complicates the situation. After our experts do a complete assessment of your case with x-rays, we will discuss the possible treatment options, including non-surgical treatments such as injections, orthotics, and shoe modifications, and laser treatments.

Call (215) 392-4009 or contact us online to schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified podiatrists today.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Metatarsalgia

Warning signs of metatarsalgia can be more damaging to patients who are athletes and already put more strain on their heels. Symptoms may develop instantly due to high-interval training, but most issues take some time to develop. That’s why it is important to be aware of any warning signs if need be.

Common symptoms of metatarsalgia include:

• Sharp burning pain in the ball of your foot
• Intensifying pain when running
• Radiating pain from the balls of the feet into the toes
• Numbness or tingling in the toes
• A feeling in your feet as if you are walking with a pebble in your shoe

Frequently Asked Questions

Can lifestyle changes or changing my shoes cure metatarsalgia on their own?

In mild or early-stage cases, conservative lifestyle changes can successfully resolve metatarsalgia. Switching to supportive footwear with a wide toe box, low heels, and thick, shock-absorbing soles can immediately take pressure off the metatarsal bones. Resting the foot, applying ice, and avoiding high-impact activities for a few weeks also allow the inflammation to subside. However, chronic or structural cases usually require professional intervention, such as custom orthotics.

Will I need surgery for metatarsalgia?

Surgery is rarely the first option for metatarsalgia. The vast majority of our patients find complete relief through non-invasive treatments like custom orthotics, footwear modifications, physical therapy, and regenerative treatments like EPAT. Surgery is only considered if conservative treatments fail to provide relief after several months, or if the pain is caused by a severe structural issue, such as a prominent metatarsal bone or a severe bunion deformation that must be surgically realigned.

Can gaining weight or pregnancy trigger metatarsalgia?

Yes, sudden weight gain or the natural weight changes associated with pregnancy can trigger or worsen metatarsalgia. An increase in body weight naturally places greater downward force on the forefoot with every step you take. Additionally, during pregnancy, the body releases a hormone called relaxin, which loosens ligaments throughout the body, including the feet. This can cause the arches to flatten, shifting extra pressure onto the metatarsal heads.

Effective Treatment Options for Metatarsalgia

Symptoms of metatarsalgia can greatly affect your overall quality of life and disrupt normal day-to-day activities. In most cases, metatarsalgia can be treated non-surgically. An experienced podiatrist may prescribe specially designed orthotics or shockwave therapy insoles and arch supports to prevent and minimize future problems with metatarsalgia.

Call (215) 392-4009 or contact us online to schedule your metatarsalgia treatment in Newtown or Warminster today.