What Area is Considered the Ball of the Foot
The ball of the foot is the area on the plantar (bottom) surface of the forefoot located at and around the metatarsal heads, specifically the weight-bearing region beneath the metatarsophalangeal joints.
Anatomical Definition
The ball of the foot comprises three distinct transverse zones with different mechanical functions 1:
Proximal zone: Located just proximal to the metatarsal heads, containing transverse bands of connective tissue that connect to the deep transverse metatarsal ligament 1
Central weight-bearing zone: The area directly beneath the metatarsal heads where vertical fibers form cushions below each metatarsal head—this is the primary weight-bearing surface of the ball of the foot 1
Distal zone: The interdigital web area where superficial fibers insert into the skin 1
Clinical Relevance
The ball of the foot extends from the medial border (first metatarsal head) to the lateral border (fifth metatarsal head) at the level of the metatarsophalangeal joints 2. This region forms a transverse arch that is critical for weight distribution during standing and propulsion during gait 2.
Functional Considerations
The metatarsal heads serve as the primary contact points in the forefoot during the push-off phase of gait 3
The internal width of proper footwear should equal the width of the foot at the metatarsal phalangeal joints to avoid compression of this critical area 4, 5
Pathology in this region (metatarsalgia) manifests as pain on the plantar surface of the forefoot that may radiate into the toes 6
Common Clinical Pitfall
Do not confuse the ball of the foot with the entire forefoot—the ball specifically refers to the metatarsal head region and surrounding structures, not the toes or the area proximal to the metatarsal bases 1, 3.