Hi im dr.hema physiotherapist.
I had gone through your query.
As per symptoms mentioned pain in ball of your foot can be due to inflammation of head of metatarsals.
The first step is to determine the cause of the inflammation,
Like
Footwear that doesn't fit properly- footwear that is tight around the toes or has high heels that can add pressure on the ball of the foot as it is forced into a tight space.
Overweight people- may suffer this pain as the excess weight can put strain on the foot.
Age
High impact exercises or continues
stress.
Or shape of the foot and toes- having a high arch in your foot or a second toe longer than the big toe can add to the pressure on the metatarsals.
Stress fractures- these are small breaks in the toe bones or metatarsals.
Yes this worsen when weight is put on the foot, as may be the case when standing, walking, or running as you mentioned.
So have a evaluation with an orthopaedicean, to find the cause and for anti inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling.
In mean time start treatment in home ....
Apply ice to the area several times a day each time for approximately 15-20 minutes. Wrap the ice in something to protect your skin.
Avoid high impact sports and exercise that puts pressure on the feet. Try something lighter on the feet, such as swimming or cycling.
Try to keep pressure off the feet, when resting try putting your feet up.
Be sure to exercise your ankle and keep stretching the Achilles tendon.
Use fitted insoles (
orthotics) as these will reallocate pressure, improve foot function and guard the ball of your foot.
Use metatarsal pads as they reduce pressure from the metatarsal bones.
Use
shock absorbing insoles to relieve pressure when walking.
You should experience significant relief.
Hope it helps, in doubt do reply.