“It feels like I’m walking on a ball.”

Do you ever feel pain on the ball of your foot—especially near your big toe joint? Does it hurt even more when you put on shoes? You may be experiencing capsulitis, a common condition that mostly affects women over 40.

This pain often feels like you’re “walking on a ball” and may occur along with your second toe starting to separate from the third. If left untreated, the ligament can tear, and surgery may become the only option. We’ve seen many patients need surgery simply because they waited too long to get checked.

👣 What You Can Do at Home

  • Wear shoes or sandals with cushioned soles

  • Avoid walking barefoot

  • Skip exercises that put pressure on the ball of your foot

  • Use ice and over-the-counter anti-inflammatories

  • Avoid wasting money on store-bought pads or inserts—they rarely help

🩺 What We Can Do at Next Step Foot & Ankle Clinic

  • Perform a comprehensive foot exam to pinpoint the exact cause of pain

  • Take X-rays to check for bone or joint issues

  • Recommend the fastest and easiest treatment options

  • Educate you on long-term prevention

  • Use ultrasound imaging to assess ligaments, nerves, and joints

  • Order an MRI if a ligament tear is suspected

📞 Don’t wait—get relief today!
Call 210.375.3318 to schedule your appointment with Next Step Foot & Ankle Clinic.

Do I Need Surgery for Capsulitis Toe Pain?

Capsulitis occurs when the ligaments surrounding your toe joints—usually the second toe—become inflamed from too much pressure on the forefoot. This can cause sharp or aching pain when you walk or stand. Over time, the affected toe can drift out of alignment, and once that happens, surgery may be necessary to correct it.

To avoid surgery, it’s crucial to treat capsulitis early:

  • Rest, ice, and use anti-inflammatory medication

  • Try stretches, taping, splinting, and shoe modifications

  • Use custom inserts if needed

If pain and swelling persist, visit Next Step Foot & Ankle Clinic in Universal City, TX to see Dr. Darren Silvester. Call 210.375.3318 or book your appointment online.

Why Does the Ball of My Foot Hurt?

Another common cause of pain in the ball of your foot is sesamoiditis—inflammation in the small sesamoid bones beneath your big toe. It’s often due to repetitive stress or overuse and causes a burning or aching pain that worsens with activity.

Sesamoiditis won’t heal on its own, but conservative treatment can help restore comfort and mobility.

Contact Dr. Darren Silvester at Next Step Foot & Ankle Clinic in Pleasanton, TX for expert evaluation and care.
📞 Call (210) 375-3318 or request an appointment online to get back on your feet pain-free.