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Ball of foot pain (metatarsalgia): causes and treatment
Ball-of-foot pain (metatarsalgia), pain under the forefoot, describes where it hurts, not why: pressure, footwear, joint irritation, a stress injury, callus, a wart or a nerve can all feel similar. We work out which structure is sore, then take pressure off it with shoe, padding or insole changes first.
How we can help at Burwood Podiatry
We work out which part of the forefoot is sore, then take the pressure off it, usually starting with simple changes, to make standing at work, shopping and walking easier.
- A clear cause: pressure, a joint, callus, a wart, a nerve such as Morton's neuroma, or a stress injury
- Padding or a metatarsal dome fitted at your visit where suitable
- Callus and corn care: corns and calluses
- Footwear advice and, if needed, orthotics quoted before anything is made
- A referral for imaging or a GP review when that would change the plan
What you can do at home
- Roomy shoes with a low heel and a cushioned sole; avoid high heels and tight, pointed shoes
- Soft insoles or pads in your shoes
- Rest and raise the foot; ice wrapped in a cloth for up to 20 minutes
- Cut back long periods of standing, walking or the sport that brings it on
When to get it checked
- Pain that stops you doing normal activities, or keeps coming back
- No improvement after 2 weeks of home care
- Tingling, burning or numbness in the toes
- Diabetes and any foot pain
- Severe pain, swelling or a change in foot shape after an injury: get same-day care
Severe pain, can't walk, a changed foot shape after an injury, or a hot, swollen, painful foot needs same-day care. Emergency, or a foot that suddenly turns cold, pale or blue? Call 000.
Ball-of-foot pain questions
Why does it feel like I'm walking on a pebble?
A pebble or bruised feeling under the ball of the foot usually means one area is taking too much pressure: a joint, callus, a nerve or a stress injury can all feel similar. We find which structure is sore, then take the pressure off it, usually starting with shoe, padding or insole changes.
Will I need orthotics for ball-of-foot pain?
Not automatically. Footwear changes, doing less of what flares it, padding or rehabilitation often help first, and some people need a referral instead.
Is it Morton's neuroma?
Burning, tingling or an electric feeling into the toes can suggest a neuroma; a broad ache or 'walking on a pebble' feeling fits metatarsalgia. Examination helps tell them apart.
What shoes help ball-of-foot pain?
Lower heels, a cushioned sole and room for the toes usually help. How should shoes fit?
Where to next
Sources
Reviewed by Burwood Podiatry · November 2026