Ever felt like there was a stone in your shoe but when you look there’s nothing? You could have Metatarsalgia.

Metatarsalgia is one of the most commonly developed foot ailments, with an estimated 80% of the population likely to be affected by it. You may not realise until much later that it is Metatarsalgia you are dealing with as the condition develops gradually over time.

However, what is clear is that foot pain such as this promotes a reduction in the quality of an individual’s life when ignored and untreated. So, let’s look at the causes, effects and treatment for Metatarsalgia:

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Was ist eine Metatarsalgie?

What is Metatarsalgia?

Metatarsalgia is a condition that affects the ball of the foot. This area becomes inflamed and sore, making it painful and often unbearable to place weight on. Generally, the condition is not serious and the pain varies from person to person. Some may feel discomfort in a small area of the front of the foot, others across the whole width, and it can either be in just one or both feet. It can also be acute or chronic.

What Causes Metatarsalgia?

There are many ways that Metatarsalgia can develop. It can be one simple external factor causing it, or it may be a combination of external and genetic factors involved.

Here are some believed causes of Metatarsalgia: 

  • Foot deformities - the second toe longer than the big toe; flat feet; narrow feet; a high arch
  • Poor-fitting shoes
  • Intense training or physical activity
  • Excess weight 
  • Stress fractures in the metatarsal or toe bones
  • Morton’s Neuroma
  • Bunions (Hallux Valgus)
What Causes Metatarsalgia?
Who is at Risk of Developing Metatarsalgia?

Who is at Risk of Developing Metatarsalgia?

Whilst anyone can develop metatarsalgia, it often affects more women than men due to specific shoe styles that are popular with women (according to the National Library of Medicine, up to 80% of middle-aged women are affected by Metatarsalgia). However, there are many ways in which you can increase the likelihood of developing this condition to be mindful about:

  • Participating in activities that require excessive running or jumping such as tennis and distance running
  • Suffering from diabetes 
  • Suffering from inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid or gout
  • Wearing high heels 
  • Adults aged between 50-70
  • Suffering from osteoarthritis

How to Know if You Have Metatarsalgia?

Metatarsalgia is recognised by the unique pain and feeling it causes in the foot. This pain can, however, vary from person to person, but there are some symptoms to watch out for if you think you have metatarsalgia:

  • Sharp or shooting pain in toes
  • Numbness and/or tingling in feet and toes
  • Pain worsens during physical activity or when standing
  • Pain lessens when resting
  • The feeling of a stone or pebble in your shoe
  • Burning pain in feet or ball of your foot
  • Dull aching in the ball of your foot
How to Know if You Have Metatarsalgia?
How is Metatarsalgia Diagnosed

How is Metatarsalgia Diagnosed?

There are many ways a doctor can diagnose if you have Metatarsalgia. Here are some of the most common diagnostic methods used: 

  • Checking your medical history
  • Conducting a physical examination of your feet
  • X-ray or ultrasound to identify any foot abnormalities
  • Gait analysis to observe your running and walking habits

How is Metatarsalgia Treated?

Metatarsalgia can be treated in many ways. As each person’s condition varies, these measures may not always heal the pain, however, they can reduce and prevent further injury from occurring.

Here at the most effective treatment options:

  • Rest and elevation
  • Reduce physical activity and exercise
  • Appropriate footwear
  • Physical therapy
  • Pain-relief medication
How is Metatarsalgia Treated?
How Can I Prevent Metatarsalgia

How Can I Prevent Metatarsalgia?

There are many measures you can follow to prevent Metatarsalgia from developing. Here are some of the best preventative measures to implement: 

  • A daily foot care routine
  • Stretching and strengthening exercises
  • A healthy weight
  • Low-impact exercises

What are the advantages of wearing INFINIRI socks?

INFINIRI intelligent cushioning socks help prevent pain and discomfort caused by Metatarsalgia. They are designed with every lifestyle and function in mind, allowing for independence and freedom at the gym, at work or at home.

Here are a few ways INFINIRI socks can help with Metatarsalgia:

  • Metatarsalgia cushioning pads at the heel and forefoot of the sock have a supporting effect on the stretched arch of the foot
  • Supportive pads add gentle compression to the metatarsalgia, toes, soles and ankles of feet to help blood flow, reduce inflammation and prevent pain
  • Specially designed foot pads and soft forefoot cushion absorb pressure peaks
  • The thinned fatty tissue under the sole of the foot is replaced by the soft forefoot cushioning within the socks
  • The socks provide shock absorption to spread pressure around the feet and ankles
  • Supportive pads lift and cushion the metatarsal bones, enabling your foot into its natural, healthy position to help you prevent pain when you perform physical activities, including intense exercise and daily tasks

Take an in-depth look at the technology and innovation behind INFINIRI here.

Please note that although INFINIRI socks act as preventative and protective footwear, they are not a replacement for medical intervention. If you are experiencing severe pain and discomfort, you should always consult with a healthcare professional or seek medical attention.

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Securing a Patent for this Revelation

Securing a Patent for this Revelation

INFINIRI is the first of its kind to offer accessible, all-day support to the feet, without the need for expensive, bulky accessories and footwear. Through innovative, patent-pending technology, INFINIRI intelligent support socks can help prevent foot conditions and pain. INFINIRI offers protection and support for your feet.

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