Forefoot Pain also known as metatarsalgia, is when the forefoot becomes inflamed and painful. The pain is located at the ball of the feet near the head of the five metatarsal bones. It is associated with poorly fitting footwear, foot deformities, high intensity training, obesity and arthritis. 

A physical examination is normally required with a thorough history to understand the stress placed on the foot day to day and during exercise. X-ray, Ultrasound or  MRI imaging is often used to help rule out any differential diagnosis.