Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 5, 2026

Evaluating the Function of the Foot Core System in the Elderly
Published on: March 11, 2022
[Metatarsalgia and neuropathies of the foot. Differential diagnosis]
José M Pardal-Fernández1, María Rodríguez-Vázquez
1Unidad de Electromiografía Clínica, Hospital General Universitario de Albacete, Albacete, España. josempardal@yahoo.es
Introduction:
Metatarsalgia is the main symptom of a group of frequent ailments characterised by pain in the balls of the feet. Clinical knowledge and the availability of efficient complementary examinations are useful tools for the neurologist.
Aim:
To describe the range of processes related with metatarsalgia and a basic diagnostic schema that allows the aetiology to be differentiated.
Development:
We perform an elementary review of the neurological anatomy of the foot and outline the different neuropathies affecting the region, as well as the extra neurological processes that could call for a differential diagnosis.
Conclusions:
Familiarity with the pathologies responsible for metatarsalgias, whether they are neurological or not, is an enriching element for the diagnosis and management of these patients, as well as for greater efficiency in the referral among the medical professionals involved.
Related Concept Videos
Diabetic Foot Ulcer
Peripheral Arterial Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Evaluation
Diabetic Neuropathy
Pulse Assessment Sites
Peripheral Artery Disease IV: Nursing Management
Muscles of the Leg that Move the Foot and Toes
Anterior Compartment
The anterior compartment includes muscles that contribute to the dorsiflexion of the foot. This compartment houses the tibialis anterior, extensor hallucis longus, and extensor digitorum longus muscles.