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Metatarsalgia
Often patients will experience pain at the base of the 2nd toe or over the top of the ball of the 2nd toe. This very common condition occurs due to a length variation in the long bones of this area of the foot called metatarsals. Often times the 2nd metatarsal is longer, however, due to the motion of the foot during walking this creates a great degree of pressure under the head of the ball of the 2nd toe and creates this pain. Symptoms include severe pain or burning in the base of the 2nd toe as well as severe pain with squeezing of the ball of the 2nd toe. This pain is often worse with walking barefoot as well as with pushing down on the balls of the toes, such as when standing on the balls of the feet or with pushing down on a car's brake pedal. Treatment options primarily involve using stiff-soled shoes with little flex in the front portion of the foot of the shoe. The less the shoes bends in the front portion of the foot the more comfortable the area will feel. Avoidance of walking barefoot as well as avoiding high-heeled shoes will improve this condition. Using over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen or Naprosyn will also alleviate some of the pain in the area. Should this pain persist evaluation may be warranted.
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Please call the office with any concerns regarding insurance coverage.
Some insurance plans require a referral prior to being seen by a specialist (podiatrist).
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