Metatarsalgia It is a term for pain and inflammation (swelling) in the toes. Each foot has five metatarsal bones, from the arch to the metatarsal toe. The first is shorter and thicker than the others, and is usually close in size. side by side During thrust when walking, jumping, or running, body weight is transferred to the toes and metatarsals. metatarsalgia Especially in the metatarsal (the rounded end of the metatarsals). It's an injury when overused. It is important to have an accurate diagnosis. This pain can be confused with other causes of foot pain.