Pain in the ball of your foot? Forefoot pain is one of the most common foot problems we treat at Highett Podiatry in Melbourne.
Forefoot pain can feel like you are walking on a stone, or you may experience sharp pain, aching, burning, tingling, swelling or tenderness. There are many possible causes, so an accurate diagnosis is important for effective forefoot pain treatment and recovery.
What Causes Pain in the Ball of the Foot?
Common causes of forefoot and ball of foot pain include:
- Morton’s neuroma – nerve irritation that may cause burning, tingling or numbness.
- Intermetatarsal bursitis – inflammation between the metatarsal bones.
- Plantar plate tear or injury – often causing pain underneath the second toe joint.
- Capsulitis or synovitis – inflammation around a toe joint.
- Stress fracture – a bone stress injury causing localised pain, tenderness and sometimes swelling.
- Painful corns and calluses – areas of hard skin caused by repeated pressure or friction.
Generalised pain across the ball of the foot is sometimes referred to as metatarsalgia.
Could a Painful Corn Be Causing My Forefoot Pain?
Yes. Painful corns are a common cause of pain in the ball of the foot and can feel like you are constantly walking on a small stone.
Your podiatrist can safely remove the corn, often providing immediate relief. We can also identify why it developed and recommend footwear, padding, pressure relief or orthotics to help prevent it returning.
Why Have I Developed Forefoot Pain?
Common risk factors include:
- Tight or narrow footwear
- High heels
- Flat or unsupportive shoes
- Flat feet or flexible joints
- Increased walking or running
- High-impact sport
- A recent increase or change in activity
- Spending long periods on your feet
What Are the Best Shoes for Forefoot Pain?
Supportive footwear is one of the most important parts of managing forefoot pain.
Look for shoes with good cushioning, adequate width across the forefoot and a stable or rocker-style sole. Shoes such as the Brooks Ghost Max, HOKA Bondi and HOKA Clifton may be suitable for some patients.
Avoid walking barefoot where possible — even around the house.
How Does a Podiatrist Treat Forefoot Pain?
At Highett Podiatry, your treatment will depend on the cause of your pain and may include:
- Assessment and diagnosis
- Corn and callus removal
- Footwear advice
- Padding, strapping and offloading
- Custom 3D-scanned orthotics
- Rehabilitation and exercises
- Hands-on treatment
- Injection therapy where clinically appropriate
- Referral for X-ray, ultrasound or MRI if required
How Long Does Forefoot Pain Take to Improve?
Recovery depends on the cause.
A painful corn may feel significantly better immediately after treatment, while conditions such as plantar plate injuries and stress fractures generally require a longer period of healing and load management.
Getting an early diagnosis and reducing pressure on the painful area can make a significant difference.
When Should I See a Podiatrist for Ball of Foot Pain?
Consider seeing a podiatrist if you have:
- Persistent pain in the ball of your foot
- A feeling of walking on a stone
- A painful corn or callus
- Burning, tingling or numbness
- Swelling or localised tenderness
- Pain that keeps returning
- Difficulty walking or exercising
Forefoot Pain Treatment at Highett Podiatry
If you’re looking for a podiatrist for forefoot pain in Highett or Melbourne, we can help determine whether your symptoms are caused by a Morton’s neuroma, bursitis, plantar plate tear, stress fracture, painful corn or another forefoot condition.
Our aim is to identify the cause, reduce pressure on the painful area and help you comfortably return to your normal activities.
Experiencing pain in the ball of your foot? Contact Highett Podiatry on 9555 3044 or book online to arrange a forefoot pain assessment.