AAOS: Foot Pain

"Foot pain in the 'ball of your foot,' that area between your arch and the toes, is generally called metatarsalgia (met'-a-tar-sal'-gee-a). The pain usually centers on one or more of the five bones (metatarsals) in this mid-portion of the foot.

Causes of foot pain

Sometimes, the foot pain is caused by a callus that forms on the bottom of your foot. A callus is a build-up of skin that forms in response to excessive pressure over the bone. Normally, a callus is not painful, but the build-up of skin can increase the pressure and eventually make walking difficult.

Shoes that don't fit properly because they are too tight or too loose can cause foot pain. Tight shoes squeeze the foot and increase pressure; loose shoes let the foot slide and rub, creating friction.

Pain on the underside of the foot may indicate a torn ligament or inflammation of the joint. Your orthopedic surgeon can do some simple tests to assess joint stability. " (more)