Zapsnaps, unless you're using a REALLY heavy camera, I suspect that balance is likely to be a bigger problem that load-bearing. Does the majority of the camera / lens sit within the tripod footprint?
I'm not sure what tripod you have, currently, but there are short centre columns available for most modern tripods. I did a quick Google search and there's loads out there.
Also, if it's an older camera, is the tripod thread the same diameter as the ball head coupling? Do you need to get an adapter?