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​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.

     

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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

 

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