Foot Pain That Flares Up with Every Step? It Could Be Metatarsalgia

Foot Pain That Flares Up with Every Step? It Could Be Metatarsalgia

Do you feel a sharp, burning, or aching pain in the ball of your foot, especially when you walk or stand? If each step feels like you're walking on a pebble—or worse—you might be dealing with a condition called metatarsalgia.

It’s more common than people think, and the good news is: it’s treatable.

What Is Metatarsalgia?

Metatarsalgia (say: met-ah-tar-SAL-gee-ah) is the medical name for pain and inflammation in the metatarsal region—that’s the area near the front of your foot, just behind your toes.

This part of your foot takes a lot of pressure every day. If that pressure becomes too much or spreads unevenly, pain can start to build. It often feels worse when standing, walking, or running—especially on hard surfaces.

What Does It Feel Like?

People often describe metatarsalgia as:

• A sharp or burning pain in the ball of the foot

• Feeling like there’s a stone in your shoe

• Tingling or numbness in your toes

• Pain that gets worse the longer you’re on your feet

It can affect one foot or both, and it usually develops over time rather than suddenly.

What Causes It?

There are a few common reasons you might develop metatarsalgia:

• Wearing the wrong shoes – especially ones that are too tight, unsupportive, or have high heels

• High-impact activities – like running, jumping, or long walks without proper support

• Foot shape – having high arches, bunions, or hammertoes can put extra pressure on the ball of your foot

• Excess weight – more weight means more pressure

• Ageing – over time, the natural padding in your feet can thin out, making walking less comfortable

How Can a Podiatrist Help?

At Prime Foot Clinic, we help people with metatarsalgia every week—and often, they don’t even realise that’s what they have!

Here’s how we can help:

• Footwear advice – helping you find the right shoes that protect and support your feet

• Custom orthotics – these are specially made insoles that cushion the pressure and support your foot’s natural shape

• Padding and strapping – to relieve pain and protect sore spots

• Hands-on treatment – if you’ve developed calluses or inflammation, we can reduce pressure and help things heal

• Activity advice – so you can stay active without making things worse

When to See Someone

If foot pain is sticking around and not getting better on its own—or if it’s stopping you from enjoying your day—it’s time to get it looked at.

Pain isn’t something you should just “put up with.” The sooner we see what’s going on, the faster you can feel better.

Let’s Get You Walking Comfortably Again

Whether you live near Ramsbottom, Prestwich, or Denton, our team at Prime Foot Clinic is here to help you get back on your feet—without that nagging pain.

Book your appointment today, and take the first step toward pain-free steps.