Forefoot Pain

What Is Forefoot Pain?

Forefoot pain is pain in the ball of the foot, the area just behind the toes. This part of the foot has bones, joints, tendons, nerves and soft tissue that help with movement and stability. When any of these structures get irritated or strained it can cause pain that stops you from walking, standing or wearing shoes comfortably.

Common Causes of Forefoot Pain

Forefoot pain can be caused by overuse, poor footwear, structural foot issues or underlying medical conditions. Some of the most common causes are:

Metatarsalgia

Generalised pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, often caused by pressure overload, poor footwear or abnormal foot mechanics.

Morton’s Neuroma

A thickened nerve between the toes (most commonly the 3rd and 4th) that causes burning, tingling, numbness or feeling like you’re walking on a pebble.

Sesamoiditis

Inflammation of the small sesamoid bones under the big toe joint, caused by repetitive impact or stress.

Capsulitis

Inflammation of the ligaments around the joint at the base of a toe, most often the 2nd toe, causing swelling, tenderness and instability.

Plantar Plate Injuries

Tears or weakening of the ligament under the ball of the foot that causes pain and misalignment of the toe.

Stress Fractures

Small cracks in the metatarsal bones from overuse that causes localised pain and swelling that worsens with weight-bearing.

Toe Deformities

Conditions like hammertoes or bunions that shift pressure forward onto the forefoot causing irritation and discomfort.

Arthritis & Bursitis

Joint inflammation or irritated bursae (fluid filled sacs that cushion joints) that causes chronic forefoot pain and stiffness.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

If you’re experiencing persistent forefoot pain early evaluation can prevent complications and speed up recovery. Book an appointment with Vale Foot and Ankle today to find out what’s causing your pain, and how to fix it.

Forefoot Symptoms to Watch For

Pain in the ball of the foot that gets worse with activity
Burning, tingling or numbness in the toes
Swelling or redness in the forefoot
Feeling like you’re walking on a lump or pebble
Stiffness or instability in the toes
Difficulty walking barefoot or wearing certain shoes
Calluses or thickened skin under pressure points

Diagnosis

Diagnosis starts with a physical exam and review of your symptoms, activity level and footwear. At Vale Foot and Ankle we may perform movement tests or use imaging, such as X-rays, ultrasound or MRI, to identify conditions like fractures, ligament damage or nerve compression.

Treatment Options for Forefoot Pain

Treatment depends on the underlying cause but most cases respond well to conservative care. The goal is to relieve pain, address contributing factors and prevent recurrence.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Footwear modifications – Switch to shoes with a wide toe box, low heel and firm support
Custom orthotics – Shoe inserts that support your arch and redistribute pressure
Padding & taping – To offload pressure from sensitive areas
Anti-inflammatory care – Ice and over-the-counter medications to reduce swelling
Activity modification – Avoid high impact activities that worsen symptoms
Physical therapy – Exercises to stretch and strengthen the foot and lower leg
Corticosteroid injections – Used selectively for inflammation that doesn’t respond to other treatments

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is only considered if conservative treatments fail or if a structural problem needs to be corrected. Procedures may include joint realignment, nerve decompression or removal, ligament repair or fracture stabilisation. Your podiatrist will explain the best option for you based on your diagnosis and goals.

Preventing Forefoot Pain

Wear properly fitted shoes with cushioning and support
Avoid high heels or tight footwear for long periods
Use orthotics if you have biomechanical issues
Cross-train to reduce repetitive foot stress
Maintain a healthy body weight
Stretch and strengthen your feet and calves regularly

Why Choose Vale Foot and Ankle to Treat forefoot Pain?

At Vale Foot and Ankle we take a personal approach to diagnosing and treating forefoot pain. Whether your symptoms are mild or chronic our team focuses on getting you back on your feet with practical solutions that match your lifestyle.