Metatarsalgia – The Underlying Cause

Metatarsalgia – The Underlying Cause

Metatarsalgia is a painful condition that causes a group of varied symptoms. These symptoms are typically swelling, pain and inflammation in the foot. Cases generally range from mild to severe and can be treated by a podiatrist. If you are diagnosed with this condition, you may be unsure as to why you are suffering from it. The fact is, this condition has many different underlying influences.

Are you overweight?

Weight can be a tough subject to bring up. The truth remains that if you weigh more than you should, all of your excess weight is being transferred to your feet. This adds more pressure and stress to the feet while they are in movement. As we age, the fat pad on our foot starts to get thinner and wear out. This fat pad protects our feet from pain. When it gets thin, and extra weight is put on the body, there is less protection and a higher risk for metatarsalgia. If you lose weight it may help cure the condition or lessen its severity.

Improper footwear

If you are wearing a pair of shoes that do not fit you correctly, you are providing your body with an open avenue for foot pain. Shoes that have a small and narrow foot box or cause a lot of pressure to the forefoot can lead to metatarsalgia. Shoes that fit poorly also make you alter your gait. An altered gait can cause more pressure on the forefoot which can lead to pain.

You are plagued with a bunion or arthritis

Bunions and arthritis weaken the big toe and the ball of the foot. The pain from these conditions can cause a patient to alter their gait. This altered gait creates more pressure on the ball of the foot and the forefoot, which can lead to the swelling, inflammation and pain that this condition is so well known for.

If you are suffering from any type of foot pain, it is important to see a podiatrist immediately. What you might think is a small problem can turn into a bigger one. Call Dr. Alan J. Discont and Dr. Krahn of Family Foot & Ankle Care, PC located in Chandler, Arizona. The number is 480-732-0033 or make an appointment online today. Let’s stop the underlying cause before it gets out of hand.