Metatarsalgia

Pain in the ball of the foot

If you are experiencing foot pain you may have metatarsalgia — our orthopaedic experts can help to diagnose and treat you

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HCA UK Booking Line:

0207 079 4344

What is metatarsalgia?

Metatarsalgia is a condition that refers to pain in the ball of your foot. This is a common condition and causes pain often when wearing shoes but sometimes only when barefoot. Metatarsalgia is a symptom and not a diagnosis, so your specialist will need to assess you to identify the cause before a treatment can be recommended.

Need to know

  • What are the symptoms of metatarsalgia? icon plus

    Symptoms to be aware of in metatarsalgia include:

    • pain in the ball of the foot on weight bearing, sometimes associated with certain shoe types or a change in footwear
    • a burning or aching feeling, numbness in the toes
    • a feeling like you are walking with a stone in your sock

  • How is metatarsalgia diagnosed? icon plus

    Your consultant will discuss your symptoms with you to help make a diagnosis. They will take a history of your activity levels and look closely at your whole biomechanical alignment as well as your footwear because metatarsalgia can result from factors as wide-ranging as playing high-impact sports to being overweight.

    If you are diagnosed with a Morton's neuroma, stress fracture, transfer metatarsalgia or a flat or high arched foot, HCA UK has the facilities and expertise to provide comprehensive care.

  • Potential treatment options icon plus

    Your consultant will discuss your symptoms with you to help make a diagnosis. They will take a history of your activity levels and look closely at your whole biomechanical alignment as well as your shoe wear because metatarsalgia can result from factors as wide-ranging as playing high-impact sports to being overweight.

    Tests we offer carried out by our leading experts include:

Our foot and ankle consultants

We're proud to work with leading orthopaedic experts who specialise in foot and ankle injuries, and whose skills are matched by their integrity and compassion.

Our locations

From complex foot and ankle surgery to diagnostic tests and procedures, we provide exceptional orthopaedic care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.

Book a foot and ankle appointment

We're happy to help you make an appointment with one of our experienced foot and ankle consultants. We can also make imaging and outpatient physiotherapy appointments for you.

Call us today

020 7079 4344
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
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