What is Ball-of-the-Foot Pain?
Pain on the ball of the foot can occur for several reasons. While joint pain, ligament damage, neuromas and sesamoid injuries are the most common conditions that cause pain on the ball of the foot, inflammation, a torn ligament or fracture are also possible causes of pain.
What are the risks?
If left untreated, mild foot pain can progress into a more serious and detrimental condition. Toe deformities could possibly occur and develop from chronic inflammation or a ligament tear. Also, if the pain under the big toe is a fractured bone, it could take months to heal rather than weeks. Ultimately, if left untreated the healing time, as well as the severity of the damage could skyrocket.
What NOT to do:
When one experiences extreme pain in the lower extremity, we recommend visiting a Podiatrist. However, there are a few steps that can be taken to ensure the pain does not increase, as well as cause more damage.
- Avoid being barefoot, especially on hard surfaces.
- Avoid running and jumping activities until pain-free.
- Don’t assume that because you can walk on your foot there isn’t the possibility of a broken bone or a torn ligament.
Shoe recommendations:
Shoes with stability and cushion in the forefoot are best (Brooks, New Balance, Hoka). Sandals with cushion can be used in moderation.
Timeline Expectations:
Getting to the diagnosis quickly will definitely speed up the healing timeline. What would be many months of suffering could be a few weeks if accurately diagnosed and treated effectively. A fracture or ligament tear can take a few months to heal.
The BIG picture:
Pain on the ball of the foot can slow you down for months. The risk of a fracture or tear are real. Following our treatment plan can save you months of unnecessary pain. Diligence of wearing the most supportive shoes and activity modification will lessen the healing cycle. The ultimate goal is a pain-free foot that allows you to move effortlessly.