Pain on the Ball of Your Foot? It Might Be More Serious Than You Think

It’s easy to brush off foot pain — especially if it only flares up now and then.
But if you're feeling a burning, aching, or sharp pain in the ball of your foot, it could be a sign of something called metatarsalgia.

At The Springfield Clinic, we see a lot of people who put up with this pain far too long before getting help.

The good news? You don’t have to.

What Is Metatarsalgia?

Metatarsalgia is just a fancy word for pain and inflammation in the ball of your foot — that area between your arch and your toes.
It’s a common problem, especially for people who:

• Spend a lot of time on their feet

• Run or play high-impact sports

• Wear tight, unsupportive, or high-heeled shoes

• Have foot shapes like high arches or bunions

Over time, extra pressure builds up in that area, irritating the bones, joints, and soft tissues.

Signs You Might Have Metatarsalgia

If you’re wondering whether your ball-of-foot pain is serious, here are some common symptoms to watch out for:

• Sharp, burning, or aching pain in the ball of the foot

• Feeling like there’s a pebble stuck in your shoe

• Pain that worsens when walking, running, or standing

• Numbness or tingling in your toes

• Swelling or tenderness

If any of this sounds familiar, it’s worth getting checked — because catching it early can make a big difference in your recovery.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It

Without treatment, metatarsalgia can lead to bigger problems.
You might start changing the way you walk to avoid the pain, which can cause strain in your ankles, knees, hips, and even your back.

It can also make other foot problems — like hammertoes or arthritis — worse over time.

The sooner you get help, the easier it is to treat and prevent long-term damage.

How We Can Help at The Springfield Clinic

At The Springfield Clinic, we take a full look at your foot health — from a hands-on exam to a detailed gait analysis if needed.

Your treatment plan might include:

• Custom orthotics to offload pressure

• Advice on better footwear

• Specific exercises to strengthen your foot muscles

• Shockwave therapy for stubborn pain

• Hands-on therapy to relieve tightness and improve movement

We focus on simple, effective treatments that fit your lifestyle and help you get back to doing what you love — pain-free.

Don’t Let Foot Pain Slow You Down

Pain on the ball of your foot isn’t something you have to "just live with."
With the right care, you can move comfortably again — and stop worrying about every step you take.

If you’re struggling with foot pain, reach out to The Springfield Clinic today.
Our friendly team is ready to help you get back on your feet.