RESEARCH
METATARSALGIA (BALL-OF-FOOT PAIN)
Metatarsalgia is pain in the plantar forefoot metatarsal area.
SYMPTOMS
This condition usually causes a burning sensation in the plantar forefoot region. Sometimes patients may describe the pain as a lump underneath the ball of the foot. Applying pressure to the plantar surface of the metatarsal heads may elicit pain.
BIOMECHANICAL ETIOLOGY
A progressive weakening of the soft tissue structures occurs when a foot is pronated excessively for any length of time. As this occurs in the forefoot, the metatarsals plantar flex and rotate. This results in shearing forces on these foot structures. After a period of time, the foot may experience nerve damage or callosities.
TREATMENT
VASYLI orthotics realign the metatarsal heads by dorsiflexing the 2nd, 3rd , and 4th metatarsals to their neutral position, using a built-in metatarsal raise. By controlling excess pronation, orthotics also prevent plantar flexion and shearing of the metatarsal shafts. Balancing the weight distribution over the 5 metatarsal bones helps remove excess weight and friction, which commonly causes the calluses and burning sensation.
EXERCISES
Intrinsic forefoot exercises