The American College of Podiatric Sports Medicine indicates that your foot is a complex structured made up of 26 bones, 33 joints, 112 ligaments and a system of nerves, tendons and blood vessels that work together to provide balance, propulsion and support as you run. Unfortunately, pain and injury can occur as the result of running. If you experience burning on the soles of your feet, you may have a condition known as metatarsalgia.
Metatarsalgia
According to MayoClinic.com, metatarsalgia is a condition marked by pain and inflammation of the balls of your feet. You may notice sharp pain, aching or burning in the ball of your foot and pain behind your toes. Pain may shoot to your toes or cause numbness in your toes. The burning and pain of metatarsalgia is often worse when standing, running or walking and tends to subside with rest. It may also feel as if you are walking with a stone or pebble in the bottom of your shoe.
Causes
Metatarsalgia often develops as the result of a change in the biomechanics of your foot. Changes in the way you place weight on your foot can lead to increased pressure on your metatarsals -- the long bones of your feet -- which can lead to pain, inflammation or burning. There are many factors that can lead to this condition. If you were to increase your training regime or participate in an intense training regime you may develop metatarsalgia. This is because as you run, your foot is the primary absorber of force. Runners with high arches and those who have a second toe that is longer than your big toe are also at risk due to increased weight on your metatarsals. Stress fractures, ill-fitting shoes, being overweight, or having bunions or hammertoes as a runner can also increase your risk of developing this condition.
Treatment
If you suspect you have metatarsalgia, contact your physician. A physical examination and a survey of your lifestyle can help diagnose this condition. Your doctor may also take an X-ray to rule out a stress fracture along with other foot conditions. Conservative measures are often used as treatment for metatarsalgia. Your doctor may advise you to take a break from running until your pain subsides. You may also ice your affected foot for 20 minutes at a time, multiple times each day. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers can also help. Investing in properly fitting-shoes, using arch support, metatarsal pads or shock-absorbing insoles can also be beneficial.
Prevention
The American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine recommends visiting with a podiatric physician prior to beginning a running routine. A podiatrist can discuss conditioning, recommend footwear and diagnose any potential problems with your feet. If necessary, a podiatrist can prescribe orthotic insoles. You should also invest in properly fitted footwear. Shoes should be determined by your weight, foot structure, your running environment and how often you run. Visit a sporting goods store or running specialty store for help in selecting the appropriate shoes. Running shoes should be replaced when they become damaged or worn.
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