Forefoot Pain at Foot Foundation
The forefoot includes the toes, ball of the foot, and the joints connecting them to the midfoot. Because it bears significant pressure during walking, running, and push-off, it is prone to joint, tendon, and nerve problems.
At Foot Foundation, our podiatrists and physiotherapists provide specialist diagnosis and treatment for all forefoot conditions, from bunions and neuromas to arthritic change in the big toe joint.
Common Causes of Forefoot Pain
Bunions (Hallux Valgus) – a progressive deformity of the big toe joint causing pain, swelling, and difficulty with footwear
Morton’s Neuroma – thickening or irritation of the nerve between the toes, producing burning or shooting pain
Metatarsalgia – general pain under the ball of the foot due to overload of the metatarsal heads
Sesamoiditis – inflammation of the small sesamoid bones beneath the big toe joint, common in runners and dancers
Hallux Limitus / Rigidus – stiffness or arthritis of the big toe joint, reducing motion and causing pain on push-off
Our Approach
At Foot Foundation, we use:
Comprehensive biomechanical and gait assessment – evaluating foot posture, walking mechanics, and load distribution
Advanced therapies – including orthotics, footwear modification, exercise rehabilitation, shockwave therapy, and manual therapy
Referral to orthopaedics – when surgical management is required
Treatment is available at all Foot Foundation clinics: Rosedale, Takapuna, Remuera, Botany, Hamilton, and Tauranga.
