Metatarsalgia refers to pain of the metatarsals/ foot bones, most commonly arising on the ball of the foot. It generally occurs due to underlying biomechanical stress and is also involved with rheumatoid arthritis and gout. The cause of the condition is chronic stretching of the transverse ligaments due to either repetitive trauma, excessive weight or hammer toes.
Risk factors for developing Metatarsalgia include:
- Incorrect footwear e.g. Heels adding to much pressure or just shoes that are too tight
- Overweight
- Age e.g. as people grow older the fat pads on the ball of your foot wear thinner and thinner which causes extra strain on the metatarsals.
- Ankle stiffness
- High impact exercises causing repetitive trauma to the area
Treatment of Metatarsalgia has been found to be effective using the cold/low level laser therapy in the reduction of inflammation and improving the microcirculation within the foot for a faster healing time than with ice and rest. Cold laser therapy also known as low level laser therapy is a relatively new treatment option used by many medical institutes as it’s a quick and effective therapy for reducing inflammation.
Protocol for treatment of pain in foot:
In the treatment of Metatarsalgia, two cold laser emitters are placed on either side of the affected area in a sandwich fashion to gain the maximum results. The first protocol inhibits nociception and any associated myospasms and involves the laser being placed on the affected region for 5 minutes either 2 or 3 times per week. The amount of visits follows a decade rule, meaning that for every 10 years of age, 1 session is recommended for example; 30 years of age, 3 sessions required. The second protocol or the tissue repair protocol is used to improve microcirculation and inflammation and involves 10-15 sessions with 1-2 visits per week lasting 1-2 minutes on each region affected.
For fast and effective treatment of Metatarsalgia/foot pain, Lakeside Laser may be an effective treatment for you! Lakeside laser is located in Central Walk, Joondalup 6027. Central to Perth’s Northern Suburbs. We have many visitors from many surrounding suburbs around Perth’s North including: Edgewater, Craigie, Beldon, Mindarie, Iluka, Jindalee, Tapping, Carramar and Alkimos just to name a few. To schedule an appointment or to discuss other super pulsed laser options you can give us a call 93000095 or you can book online on our website
www.lakesidelaser.com.au
