Burning feet - Enbrel | Arthritis Information

Treatment

Causes and Risk Factors of Metatarsalgia

Heredity: Narrow, high-arched feet can focus stress on the balls of the feet. Also, if the legs are not equal in length, the metatarsal-phalangeal joints of the shorter leg receive additional stress.

Skin Irritation: Metatarsalgia often occurs with bunions or tender calluses under the metatarsal-phalangeal joints.

Foot Disorders: Rheumatoid arthritis, stress fractures, fluid accumulation and muscle fatigue can help cause metatarsalgia. If one is born with - or develops - flat feet, there is also a risk.

"Overloaded" Feet: Excess weight from pregnancy or obesity can contribute to metatarsalgia. So can persistent and abnormal stress on the feet. For example, soldiers, letter carriers and dancers are at risk because of extensive standing and walking.

Nerve Disorders: Morton's neuroma is a benign growth that can develop on a nerve in the foot. The neuroma can cause a burning sensation that may radiate to other parts of the foot. Soreness can persist even when resting.

Treatment of Metatarsalgia

Foot freedom: If you wear tight shoes with thin soles and high heels, give them away. If you have symptoms of a Morton's neuroma, remove the shoes periodically and gently massage the painful area. If you pinch or rub vigorously, you may experience pain as intense as when you hit your "funny bone."

Orthotics (or metatarsal pads): Consult your podiatrist or physician for a footpad that relieves pressure on the metatarsal area.

Medications: Your doctor may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or sulindac. This is the most common treatment. Ibuprofen, sulindac, or diclofenac sodium, prescription astringents, emollients or ointments can help treat bunions or calluses, which sometimes are associated with metatarsalgia. Rarely, injections of a corticosteroid into the tender area may be used.

Surgery: An operation seldom is necessary. In severe cases of Morton's neuroma, surgeons remove the nerve associated with painful symptoms. Surgical options for other types of metatarsalgia include reshaping joints and modifying irregularly shaped bones.

Thanks Alley...that solves that whole mystery.  RD was noticing some of that last visit.  I sure hope yours will get better.  have you seen the doc lately, and what is he going to do?