Quick answer: Pain in the ball of the foot is often called metatarsalgia. It can be linked to repetitive activity, tight or poorly cushioned shoes, increased pressure under the forefoot, bunions, irritated nerves, or other foot conditions.
The ball of the foot carries substantial load when you push off during walking and running. Pain may feel aching, burning, sharp, or like you are stepping on a small pebble.
Common reasons for ball-of-foot pain
Exercise and long periods of standing can increase forefoot load. High heels, narrow shoes, or thin soles can concentrate pressure. Foot shape, bunions, reduced cushioning under the foot, and inflammation around the joints or soft tissues can also contribute.
What you can try first
Reduce the activity that clearly aggravates the pain, choose roomy shoes with a low heel and cushioned sole, and avoid repeatedly walking barefoot on hard floors if that makes symptoms worse. A soft insole or metatarsal pad may help some people.
What if it feels like a stone in your shoe?
A pebble-like sensation, burning, or shooting pain toward the toes can occur with several forefoot problems, including nerve irritation. Because similar symptoms can have different causes, persistent pain is better assessed than self-diagnosed.
When to seek care
Get medical advice if pain is worsening, recurring, stopping normal activity, or not improving after a period of self-care. Seek earlier assessment for numbness, inability to bear weight, severe swelling, deformity, or a hot painful foot with fever or systemic symptoms.
People with diabetes should be more cautious
Foot problems can be more serious when sensation or circulation is reduced. New foot pain, skin changes, sores, or swelling should not be ignored.
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Source
This article is general information, not a diagnosis.