What is metatarsalgia? Metatarsalgia is a general term used to describe pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot. Particularly, this is pain around the metatarsal heads—the bones just before your toes. While it’s not necessarily a condition in itself, it signals an underlying problem in foot structure, biomechanics, or lifestyle. The pain feels like or is often described as: A sharp, burning, or aching sensation in the front part of your foot The feeling of walking on a pebble Numbness or tingling in the toes What causes this foot pain? Metatarsalgia can develop from a variety of factors, including: 1. Overuse and high-impact activities Runners, jumpers, and dancers often put repetitive stress on the forefoot. Ultimately, the large forces going through the area can affect the tissues leading to inflammation and pain 2. Improper footwear Wearing high heels or tight shoes can shift your body weight forward onto…

What is a scaphoid fracture? A scaphoid fracture is one of the most common types of wrist fractures, particularly among young adults and athletes. The scaphoid bone is one of the eight small bones in the wrist, located in the middle of the joint closer to the thumb side. Functionally, it helps to connect the forearm bones (radius and ulna) to the hand bones (metacarpals). A fracture of the scaphoid typically occurs when an individual falls onto an outstretched hand (commonly shortened to FOOSH), causing the wrist to bend backward in an awkward position. The impact can break the bone,…

Pregnancy is a time of immense physical and emotional changes. As your body adapts to the growing baby, many women experience various discomforts and physical challenges. One of the less discussed, but relatively common issues is sacroiliac joint dysfunction (SIJD). Unfortunately, this condition can significantly impact a woman’s comfort and mobility during pregnancy. What is sacroiliac joint dysfunction (SIJD)? Firstly, the sacroiliac joints are located at the base of the spine where the sacrum (the triangular bone at the end of the spine) meets the bones of the pelvis. Importantly, these joints play a role in transferring weight and forces…

Low back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints worldwide, affecting millions of people. Common causes may include poor posture, prolonged static or sitting times, and weak core and lower body muscles. While many people focus on core strengthening to alleviate back pain, the role of the gluteal muscles is often overlooked. Ultimately, strengthening the glutes can play a crucial role in preventing and managing low back pain. As physiotherapists, we emphasize a holistic approach that includes glute activation and strengthening exercises to support the lower back and improve overall movement patterns. What is the role of the…