Forefoot Pain

The front of the foot is such a complex mix of bones, tendons, muscles, and neural structures. This can cause an array of problems that can be both tricky to diagnose and treat. At Footsure Podiatry we use a combination of physical examination, history taking and medical imaging to diagnose and treat forefoot pain. 

What could it be?

Mortons Neuroma

A Mortons Neuroma is a common cause of forefoot pain. It can resemble burning, tingling or shooting pain in the forefoot or toes. A neuroma is a thickening of the tissue around the nerve sheath. Treatment can includes reducing aggravating factors, offloading the neural structures, stretching, Foot Mobilisation techniques and supporting the foot arch with orthotic therapy. The earlier treatment is obtained, the better the outcome often is. 

Hammer/Claw Toes

Hammer and Claw toes often develop when the toes need to grip the ground for balance and stability. These deformities can often be exacerbated by arthritis and poor footwear. Footsure Podiatry work on developing the whole foot to manage load and force better, and allow the toes to relax throughout the walking cycle. Treatments can include footwear changes, splints, stretches and orthotic therapy. 

Sesamoiditis 

Sesamoiditis is the inflammation of the bones under the big toe joint. Pain is usually isolated under the big toe and is aggregated by weight bearing and movement. Swelling and bruising may also be associated with Sesamoiditis however not always. 

Sesamoiditis usually responds great to treatment. Treatments can include avoiding aggravating activities, footwear changes, rest and icing, along with Orthotic therapy to avoid long term recurrence. 

Stress Fracture

A Metatarsal Stress fracture is a break in the bone that happens with repeated stress or injury. A stress fracture can be caused by something as simple as incorrect footwear or an increase in activity. The pain usually increases during the day with weight-bearing activities, and there is sometimes swelling and bruising associated with a stress fracture. Treatment will depend on the severity of the fracture.