Causes and risk factors
Stress or overworking, physical activity of the lower leg muscles cause stress injury to the tissues around or over the head of metatarsals in the forefoot. Hence athletes, runners, aerobic dancers are more prone for Metatarsalgia Sudden changes in exercises activity like increasing the frequency and intensity of exercise, use of improper or worn out shoes for workouts or during sports and flat foot are some of the contributing factors. Wearing high heeled shoes, obesity, claw or hammer toe or stiff ankle can cause stress on metatarsal. Bunions, arthritis and gout are certain diseases that can lead to metatarsalgia.
Clinical presentation:
The complaints develop slowly. Pain is the characteristic feature. The patient complaints of sharp aching or burning pain in the forefoot. The pain is typically felt in and around the toe or at the balls of the foot during propulsion. Tingling sensation is felt. The pain is aggravated on walking or prolonged standing or while doing exercises like running.
Investigations:
Diagnosis is done of the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patient and the physical examination carried out by the orthopedic doctor. X ray of the foot is advised by the doctor. Blood sugar levels, Routine blood test and specialized blood test to rule out other inflammatory diseases of the bones are suggested. MRI and CT scan can be advised to rule out other causes.
Treatment:
Rest, application of ice and stretching exercises and flexibility exercises are the simple measures to be adopted. Pain relieving medications and corticosteroid injections can be advised. Wearing shoes with good cushions during exercises and use of elastic compression bandages are found to be effective. Weight reduction is recommended in obese people. In some cases surgical intervention is needed.
Other Modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the symptom. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints. Acupuncture which is the science of insertion of fine needles on the certain stimulating spots on the body has proved to be effective. Certain yoga exercises can also be helpful in relieving the pain and strengthening the muscles.
