Metatarsalgia is the term used to describe pain or discomfort in the sole of the foot, where the bones from the middle of the foot (metatarsals) articulate with the toes. A detailed examination leading to a clear diagnosis is needed, as many conditions can cause pain in this area. For example, a fatigue or stress fracture, which can develop with intermittent excess loading on a specific bone, often a metatarsal, causes pain and is sometimes accompanied by swelling.
Metatarsalgia is generally due to uneven pressure distribution on the sole of the foot.
Non-surgical treatments, such as wearing custom orthopaedic insoles, may be sufficient to relieve pain. Minimally invasive surgical realignment is required in some cases to redistribute the body weight over the entire foot.