​
​WHAT CAUSES IT?
- Excessive pronation
- Hallux valgus
- Hypermobility of the foot
- Clawed foot
- Rigid foot
WHAT IS IT? METATARSALGIA
-
Metatarsalgia is pain of the forefoot brought about by abnormal foot biomechanics.
-
Also referred to as metatarsophalangeal joint synovitis.
-
Can involve an increased shearing load placed on the transverse ligaments and intrinsic muscles of the foot. This can result in inflammation of the metatarsophalangeal joints (MTP).
Signs and symptoms
-
Pain in the forefoot
-
Aggravated by weight-bearing
-
Pain comes on gradually
-
Joints are tender to touch
-
The 2nd MTP joint is the most commonly affected
-
Callous may be present under the affected joint
HOW TO SELF MANAGE
-
R.I.C.E. Protocol
-
Anti-inflammatory medication for short term pain relief (if not contraindicated)
-
Wear activity-appropriate footwear, with cushioning.
​
PROGNOSIS
-
If conservative management a corticosteroid injection may be required to settle the pain and inflammation.
-
X-ray may be useful to determine the degree of bony stress and degeneration.
HOW PHYSIO HELPS?
-
Assessment to identify contributing biomechanical factors
-
Electrotherapy
-
Joint mobilisation
-
Padding to redistribute loading
-
Strapping
-
Podiatric referral if necessary
-
Prescription of exercises to strengthen the intrinsic muscles
OR for an online consultation click here