Imaging in metatarsalgia

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Orthopedics
• Podiatry

Background:

• Metatarsalgia is a frequent clinical challenge impacting foot function and quality of life.
• Diverse etiologies contribute to metatarsalgia, necessitating tailored diagnostic approaches.
• Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective pain management and treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of metatarsalgia causes.
• To outline the most appropriate imaging modalities for each cause.
• To highlight key radiological findings for efficient pathology investigation.

Main Methods:

• Review of primary, secondary, and iatrogenic causes of metatarsalgia.
• Correlation of specific pathologies with optimal imaging techniques (e.g., X-ray, MRI, Ultrasound).
• Emphasis on characteristic imaging findings for accurate diagnosis.

Main Results:

• Different causes of metatarsalgia exhibit distinct imaging features.
• Specific imaging modalities are recommended based on suspected etiology.
• Understanding imaging principles aids in efficient and accurate diagnosis.

Conclusions:

• Appropriate radiological investigation is essential for managing metatarsalgia.
• Tailoring imaging to the underlying cause improves diagnostic yield.
• This review serves as a guide for clinicians investigating forefoot pain.