Metatarsalgia: Treatment, Cost and Side Effects

Matatarsalgia treatment is required when an individual is affected with a painful ball on their foot. The bones which connect the toes to the ankles are called metatarsals. Over-using high impact sports shoes and wearing the wrong kind of foot wear are the primary reasons for developing this condition. A treatment is required to ease the pain and reduce the discomfort.

When the small toe nerves between the metatarsal bones press against each other, the small nerves found in between them starts getting inflamed. This is the cause of metatarsalgia. An important recommendation of avoiding putting weight on the foot is given by the doctors to prevent the condition from getting worse. The diagnosis for the condition requires the doctor to examine the patient’s medical history and their lifestyle and hobbies. Blood tests and imaging tests such as X rays, MRI and ultrasound may be required to further understand the problem. With the help of the blood tests, doctors may be able to understand the underlying reason such as a gout, arthiritis or diabetes as the primary reason behind the condition.

After diagnosing the problem, the doctors may suggest a couple of treatment methods to reduce the pain and discomfort. The initial steps which you can take for comfort are home based. Applying ice for 15 to 20 minutes a day on the affected area several times a day can be helpful in reducing the inflammation and pain. Apart from that, you can use over the counter medication such as ibuprofen, for relieving the pain and reducing the inflammation. You should also avoid putting any pressure on your feet. For this, you can use metatarsal pads or metatarsal bars as well. Shock absorbing soles and arch supports can also be used while walking.

High heeled shoes should be completely avoided. Wearing shoes which are not very tight and have adequate support and cushioning is highly recommended. Losing body weight is also important in order to keep the discomfort at bay.

Any individual who sees symptoms of sharp pain or burning and aching sensation in the ball of the foot should get themselves checked for the condition. A pain which becomes worse with any movement like walking, running or carrying heavy weights can be a symptom of the condition.

Treatment is not required for people who do not feel any pain on their metatarsals. People who do not have any problem while running, walking and exercising are not eligible for the treatment as well.

There are no recorded side effects to the treatments mentioned above.

Patients who get their metatarsals treated for the condition should not give pressure of the affected foot for a week or two. Proper healing required around a week. You can resume your activities after that time period.

Patients need at least a week or two to completely recover from the condition.

The treatment for metatarsalgia requires you to wear comfortable shoes prescribed by the doctor. The price of these shoes can be around Rs 300-400. Using ice packs is inexpensive as well.

If the condition is treated properly then the results of the treatment is permanent.

Exercising and managing a healthy body weight is important in order to manage the pain and discomfort. Homeopathic treatments like using arnica and hydrotherapy can also help in regulating the pain.