Ankle and Foot

My toes hurt! Is that toe pain the result of metatarsalgia?

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Published on Wednesday, 02 November 2011 15:27

Written by Mike Ryan, PT, ATC, PES

Article by Mike Ryan Fitness, PT, ATC, PES
MikeRyanFitness.com

If you are experiencing pain in for forefoot, you may have Metatarsalgia. This condition includes inflammation in the area of the toes.

Those who are physically active in activities that involve a lot of running or jumping experience metatarsalgia. Ill-fitting shoes and high heels are additional triggers.

What is Metatarsalgia?

Metatarsalgia is inflammation in the joints that connect the metatarsal bones of the foot and the phalanges. The second, third and fourth metatarsal phalanges joints are the typical areas affected. (See anatomical diagram below)

Morton’s Neuroma is a similar condition causing forefoot pain. Unlike Metatarsalgia, Morton’s Neuroma pain is located between the distal metatarsal bones caused by a pinching of the nerves between the second, third and fourth metatarsal bones.

Metatarsalgia, on the other hand, is typically pain within the joints themselves of the forefoot and toes.

Symptoms of Metatarsalgia

• Tenderness and pain in the tips of the toes or further down (proximal toes)
• Forefoot and toe pain that increases with weight bearing activities like running or walking
• Blistering and calluses of the forefoot and toes
• Pain that increases with passive bending and toe rotation
• Excessive skin or calluses on the bottom of the foot related to change in gait due to forefoot pain (compensation pain)
• A genetic predisposition to claw toes or bunions can exacerbate the condition

What to do about Metatarsalgia

It is not generally serious nor does it typically require surgery. However, it can be painful and sideline you. Conservative treatments, such as ice and rest, can often relieve metatarsalgia symptoms.

Proper footwear, along with shock-absorbing insoles or arch supports, may be all you need to prevent or minimize future problems with metatarsalgia.

Treatment for Metatarsalgia (toe pain)

• Ice your arch, foot and toes
• Wear the right shoes for the athletic activity
• Curtail activities that include weight bearing motion
• Massage the arch, big toe, ankle joint and calf
• Get an evaluation from medical professional who offers a biomechanical evaluation to assess contributing issues: Leg length discrepancy, hyper pronation/supination, tight ankles, restricted toe extensor tendons, hypomobile toes, knee, hip or low back factors
• Use orthotics
• Stretch your calves regularly