Ball of Foot Pain (Metatarsalgia) Treatment
Relief for Forefoot Pain That Slows You Down
Persistent pain in the ball of the foot, medically referred to as metatarsalgia, can interfere with walking, standing, or participating in sports. At SoCal Foot and Ankle Doctors, we specialize in identifying the root causes of forefoot pain and providing advanced, non-surgical treatments to help patients return to an active lifestyle.
Our clinics in Santa Monica and near Cedars-Sinai Medical Towers are equipped with in-office imaging, diagnostic ultrasound, and gait analysis tools to deliver precise, personalized care.
Common Causes of Ball of Foot Pain
- Metatarsalgia: Inflammation of the metatarsal heads (the long bones behind the toes)
- Neuroma (Morton’s Neuroma): A painful nerve entrapment between the 3rd and 4th toes
- Fat Pad Atrophy: Thinning of the protective cushioning under the ball of the foot
- Overuse or Poor Biomechanics: High-impact activity, poor foot alignment, or inappropriate footwear
- Arthritis or Stress Fractures: Especially in older patients or runners
Symptoms of Forefoot Pain
???? Burning or sharp pain under the toes
???? Pain that worsens with standing or walking
???? Numbness or tingling in the toes
???? Feeling of “a pebble in the shoe”
???? Localized swelling or tenderness
How We Diagnose and Treat Metatarsalgia
- Gait Analysis & Biomechanical Exam
- X-rays and Ultrasound Imaging
- Plantar Pressure Evaluation
Once a diagnosis is confirmed, treatment options may include:
Conservative Treatments
- Custom Orthotics to offload pressure from the metatarsals
- Footwear Modifications to enhance shock absorption
- Padding & Offloading Techniques to reduce impact
- Anti-inflammatory Medications
- Activity Modifications & Physical Therapy
Advanced Therapies
- Shockwave Therapy to stimulate healing in chronic cases
- Leneva Injections for fat pad restoration
- Stem Cell or PRP Injections for tendon or ligament inflammation
- Ultrasound-Guided Injections for precise relief
What to Expect from Treatment
Many patients experience symptom relief within a few weeks with conservative management. Advanced treatments like Leneva or shockwave therapy offer additional long-term benefit with minimal downtime. Surgery is rarely required but available for severe structural abnormalities.
Why Choose Us for Forefoot Pain?
- Specialists in sports and biomechanical foot injuries
- On-site diagnostic tools for same-day evaluation
- Conservative-first approach with advanced alternatives
- High success rate and patient satisfaction in Santa Monica & Cedars-Sinai area
What Our Patients Say
SoCal Foot and Ankle Doctors strive to be the best we can and are grateful for the opportunities we are given to help people heal and get back to doing the things that they love.
Our Docters
Our Board Certified Podiatrists
Socal Foot and Ankle doctors are committed to delivering the most exceptional treatments.
Board Certified Foot & Ankle Specialist
Office Time
Location: Santa Monica
Mon – Thur: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Board Certified Foot & Ankle Specialist
Office Time
Location: Santa Monica
Mon – Thur: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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