How to relieve metatarsal pain?

Metatarsal pain (also called metatarsalgia) is pain in the metatarsal joint(s) where the toes attach to the rest of the foot. It is particularly common beneath the big toe, but it can affect any single toe or all 10. The best treatments depend on the cause of pain but some of the most common treatments include rest, over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medicines, a change in footwear (to allow more room in the “toe box”) and orthotics (shoe inserts). In some cases, a cortisone injection may be recommended and for certain conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout, medications to treat these conditions are appropriate. Rarely, surgery may be recommended.