When the ball of your foot aches, the pain is localized, but multiple causes could be responsible. That’s a constant consideration in the field of podiatry: A straightforward ailment can have a variety of sources, some complex and others simple. Another consideration to keep in mind: If left untreated, pain in the ball of your foot can linger for months, hampering mobility and increasing the risk of fracture.

Advanced Foot Care of NJ is here to help. We’ve prepared this blog to cover all the bases when it comes to ball-of-the-foot-pain. Read on to discover the risks, consider causes, and find ways to fend off discomfort in the first place.

Why Does It Hurt?

Joint pain and damage to the ligaments are common causes.
Neuromas or sesamoid injuries could certainly be the roots of the problem as well.
Severe inflammation and fractures are frequent offenders.

Risks of Putting Off Treatment

Mild pain can’t be ignored, or you might find yourself with a worse condition in the works.
Deformity of the toe can come from any chronic inflammation or ligament tears.
Pain beneath your toe might signal that you’ve got a fracture, which could take months to resolve effectively.

Actions to Avoid

DON’T walk around barefoot, and in particular, avoid doing so on hard surfaces.
DON’T run around or jump until the pain has been resolved.
DON’T assume an ability to walk precludes the possibility of a broken bone or torn ligament.

Recommendations and Remedies

Choose the right shoes. You want to prioritize cushioning and stability, so Brooks, New Balance, or Hokas are some solid footwear choices.
Get a diagnosis as soon as you can. Nothing makes a bigger difference to your healing timeline.
Be diligent about supportive footwear, modifying your activities, and following treatment plans.

Don’t deal with unnecessary pain for a moment longer than you have to. If you’re suffering from discomfort in the ball of your foot and you’re not sure how to handle it, we can help. We are conveniently located in Woodland Park and welcome our neighbors in Little Falls, Cedar Grove, Verona, Stoney Road, Sandy Hill, Albion Place, and Great Notch. To schedule an appointment, contact our office at 973-256-0002.