MAY 2010 NEWSLETTER Sinus Self Care Archives Metatarsalgia; Morton's Neuroma Metatarsalgia is a condition where there is pain in the balls (metatarsals) of the feet. (See figure M1) The bones involved are called the metatarsals, "algia" means pain. Normally a strong transverse arch lifts weight off the three center balls, leaving more weight to be borne on the great toe, little toe and heel. (See figure M2) When this transverse arch sags, the second, third and fourth toe bear excess weight and can become painful. Thus the long bones of the foot become more splayed. (See figure M3) Age and excess standing or jumping on hard surfaces may cause the fat pad cushion under the toes to thin out so extra cushion in the inner sole of a shoe can bring pain relief. My first recommendation is to put in your shoe a simple green, Spenco insole (made with neoprene). It never bottoms out like many other materials, it's light and the simple insole is thin enough to fit in most shoes. It also has a nicer give to it that the more dense blue insoles also on the market. Neoprene Spenco insoles just keep on working and only need replacing when the fabric on top wears away. www.spenco.com A foot with a low arch or strained arch from bearing excessive weight can be helped by an orthotic. The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Movementwise makes no representation or warranty regarding the accuracy, reliability, completeness, currentness, or timeliness of the content, text or graphics. Links to other sites are provided for information only - they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Copyright 2006