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Ask An Expert

Pain in Ball of Foot

Carolyn E. McAloon

Carolyn E. McAloon, DPM

Eden Medical Center

SEBMF HMO Network

Question:

I have pain across the ball of my right foot, making it tender to walk on. I've been doing a new type of activity - dancing Zumba in new shoes - but this pain showed up five days after the last class. Could it be related? If not, what are likely causes?

Answer:

Zumba is fun, but this new activity can certainly be the cause of your foot pain.

You are right to be concerned because foot pain is not normal. There are a number of common foot problems that can cause pain in the ball of your foot. Stress fractures, nerve inflammation (neuroma), joint inflammation (capsulitis), tendinitis, or a sprain can all be possible causes.

I recommend that you seek care from your podiatrist for an evaluation, that may include x-rays, to find out what is causing your foot pain. Once a proper diagnosis is made, an effective treatment plan can be implemented so that you can Zumba again in no time.

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