While walking on uneven surfaces where more pressure is placed on the outside of the foot (ball of little toe) a sharp pain occurs in the upper metatarsal area. Pushing on the this pain area also hurts. What can be causing this? Is there a cure. I wear good work shoes with inserts.

well there could be a few things going on the the area. You simply may have an inflammation of the metatarsal or you could have a small amount of fluid to the area. This may require a cortisone injection to help reduce the inflammation around the area. You mentioned that you are wearing insoles, which are great, but the insole may need a pad applied to the area of your chief complaint to bring some relief. I suggest that you make an appointment with your podiatrist for a thorough evaluation.

Foot.com staff member