What causes the ball of my foot to hurt when I run (usually around the 3rd mile)? Is there anything that could prevent this (ie Shoes, inserts, stretches)?
There are lots of reasons for this area of foot to hurt. When I have foot soreness I soak both feet in a footbath. I add lavender oil or peppermint oil to the footbath, depending on time of day. Lavender to relax in evening and peppermint earlier for energy. After the footbath take some time to do a foot massage on ankles and top and bottom of both feet.
Linda, I was having a similar problem and decided to try a different shoe. I went to my running store and had them look at my form. They told me I was wearing the wrong shoes for my feet. My new shoes have made all the difference and have helped my foot feel better. Do you have a running store near you wear they check your stride? They may be able to help you with an insert or better shoe.