Metatarsalgia.pptx
- 2. WHAT IS METATARSALGIA? • Metatarsalgia is the name for pain in the ball of the foot. • it affects the metatarsals, the bones connecting the ankle bones to the toes. They’re a common source of pain because they support your weight when you’re standing, walking and running.
- 3. • Metatarsalgia can have a number of different causes, including wearing unsupportive footwear, conditions such as arthritis, and doing high- impact sports. • It can be very uncomfortable and interfere with your normal activities, but will often improve with some simple self-help measures.
- 4. SOME COMMON CAUSES OF METATARSALGIA INCLUDE: • Badly fitting footwear – high-heeled or restrictive shoes can force the ball of the foot into a small amount of space, which puts more pressure on that area. • High-impact sports – sports like running or tennis put extra pressure on the feet.
- 5. • Being overweight or obese – this can also incre ase the pressure on the feet. • An unusual bone structure in the feet- having narrow, high-arched or flat feet can increase the chances of metatarsalgia. • Joint and foot conditions- including arthritis, gout, bunions, bursitis, Morton’s neuroma, hammer toes, and stress fractures.
- 6. TREATING AND PREVENTING METATARSALGIA • Rest your feet – put your feet up regularly and avoid activities that make the pain worse; try low-impact activities such as cycling or swimming instead of sports that involve a lot of running or jumping • Use an ice pack – apply an ice pack to the affected area for about 20 minutes several times a day (a bag of frozen peas will also work); make sure you wrap it in a towel so it doesn't damage your skin
- 7. • Change your footwear – try flat shoes that have plenty of room for your feet and have a well- cushioned sole; replace any worn out shoes as they could make things worse (read more about choosing sports shoes and trainers) • Use metatarsal pads and arch supports in your shoes for continued support. Metatarsal pads and arch supports are available over-the-counter at most pharmacies and many shoe stores. Using these in your shoes on a daily basis can increase your support and minimize pain, especially if you walk or stand regularily as part of your job.
- 8. OTHER TREATMENT: • Take ibuprofen to reduce pain • Wrap your foot in a comprehension bandage • Eat a balance diet to maintain a healthy weight • Exercise regularly using low-impact training method