Metatarsalgia

Metatarsalgia Support in Waterford

Ball of Foot Pain When Walking? Step Right Can Help

Metatarsalgia is pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot — the area under the toes where the foot takes pressure during walking. It can feel like burning, aching, or a sharp discomfort, and it often gets worse the longer you’re on your feet.

At Step Right Waterford, we help people reduce ball-of-foot pain by identifying pressure points, improving support, and recommending practical solutions that make walking more comfortable.

👉 Book an appointment today at Step Right Waterford.

What is Metatarsalgia?

Metatarsalgia is a term used for pain at the front of the foot, usually under the metatarsal heads (the “knuckles” of the foot).

It often happens when too much pressure is placed through the ball of the foot over time — especially with unsupportive footwear, high activity levels, or foot posture issues.

Common Symptoms of Metatarsalgia

You may notice:

  • Pain or burning in the ball of the foot
  • Sharp discomfort under one or more toes
  • Pain that worsens when walking or standing
  • Feeling like you’re “walking on a stone”
  • Increased pain in thin-soled shoes
  • Relief when you rest or remove footwear

What Causes Metatarsalgia?

Metatarsalgia is usually caused by pressure overload through the forefoot.

Common causes include:

  • Long periods standing or walking
  • Worn-out shoes or thin soles
  • High heels or tight footwear
  • High arches (more pressure through the forefoot)
  • Flat feet causing poor weight distribution
  • Toe deformities (hammer toes/claw toes)
  • Reduced cushioning in the foot over time
  • Gait issues affecting loading and pressure points

Metatarsalgia vs Morton’s Neuroma (What’s the Difference?)

These two are often confused.

Metatarsalgia usually feels like general pressure pain in the ball of the foot.
Morton’s neuroma often causes nerve-type symptoms like tingling, numbness, or burning between the toes.

A proper assessment helps identify what’s actually causing your pain.

How Step Right Waterford Helps Metatarsalgia

Foot & Gait Assessment (Find the Pressure Points)

At Step Right Waterford, we assess how your feet load when walking and where pressure is building up. This helps us identify:

  • The exact area causing pain
  • Whether your arches are supported correctly
  • Footwear issues affecting forefoot pressure
  • Movement patterns increasing strain

Support Options for Ball of Foot Pain

Depending on what we find, we may recommend:

  • Footwear advice to improve cushioning and reduce pressure
  • Support options to improve weight distribution
  • Custom orthotics where appropriate
  • Practical changes to reduce forefoot overload

The goal is simple: reduce pressure through the ball of the foot and improve comfort.

When Should You Get Ball of Foot Pain Checked?

Book an appointment if:

  • Pain is affecting walking or standing
  • It feels like you’re walking on a stone
  • Pain is getting worse over time
  • You’re avoiding activity due to discomfort
  • Rest isn’t solving it

Early support can prevent it becoming a long-term issue.

Metatarsalgia Support in Waterford

Step Right Waterford helps people relieve ball-of-foot pain by addressing foot mechanics, pressure points, and footwear support.

👉 Book an appointment today at Step Right Waterford.

FAQ: Metatarsalgia

What does metatarsalgia feel like?

Often like burning, aching, or sharp pain in the ball of the foot — sometimes like walking on a pebble.

Can footwear cause metatarsalgia?

Yes. Thin soles, worn cushioning, tight shoes, or high heels can increase pressure through the forefoot.

Do orthotics help metatarsalgia?

In many cases, yes — especially when pain is caused by pressure overload and poor weight distribution. We’ll advise honestly after assessment.