Ball (foot)

Ball (foot)

The ball of the foot is the padded portion of the sole between the toes and the arch, underneath the metatarsal bones. This area is often subjected to much of the body's weight during walking, running, and other physical activity.

Anatomy

The ball of the foot is made up of several structures, including the metatarsal bones, the interosseous muscles, and the plantar fascia. The metatarsal bones are the long bones in the foot that connect the toes to the rest of the foot. The interosseous muscles are small muscles located between the metatarsal bones that help to control toe movement. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, providing support to the arch.

Function

The ball of the foot plays a crucial role in balance, locomotion, and bearing the body's weight. During walking or running, the ball of the foot absorbs the impact of the body's weight before it is transferred to the toes for push-off. It also provides a pivot point for the foot to rotate and adjust to uneven surfaces.

Health and care

Due to its role in weight-bearing and locomotion, the ball of the foot is prone to various conditions and injuries, such as metatarsalgia, sesamoiditis, and Morton's neuroma. These conditions can cause pain and discomfort, and may require treatment such as rest, physical therapy, or in some cases, surgery. Proper footwear and foot care can help to prevent these conditions and maintain the health of the ball of the foot.

See also

• Foot
• Metatarsal bones
• Plantar fascia