Metatarsal pads are pads that Podiatrists often use to treat a wide range of disorders such as metatarsalgia.
Metatarsal pads are orthotic devices designed to provide support and cushioning to the metatarsal heads, which are the bones located in the front part of the foot, just before the toes. These pads are placed inside the shoe and positioned beneath the metatarsal heads to help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with various foot conditions.
Common uses of metatarsal pads:
- Metatarsalgia: Metatarsalgia is a condition characterized by pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, particularly around the metatarsal heads. Metatarsal pads can help relieve pressure on the affected area, provide cushioning, and redistribute weight more evenly, thereby reducing pain and discomfort.
- Morton’s Neuroma: Morton’s neuroma is a condition involving the thickening of the nerve tissue between the metatarsal heads, typically affecting the area between the third and fourth toes. Metatarsal pads can help reduce pressure on the affected nerve, provide padding, and improve foot mechanics, thereby alleviating symptoms such as pain, numbness, and tingling.
- Metatarsal Stress Fractures: Metatarsal stress fractures are small cracks in the bones of the foot, often caused by repetitive stress or overuse. Metatarsal pads can help offload the pressure on the injured area, provide cushioning, and promote healing by reducing the load on the metatarsal bones.
- Metatarsal Arch Support: Some individuals have a higher arch in the middle of the foot, which can lead to excessive pressure on the metatarsal heads. Metatarsal pads with arch support can help distribute the weight more evenly across the foot, alleviate pressure on the metatarsals, and provide additional cushioning.
- Forefoot Pain: Metatarsal pads can be used to address general forefoot pain, including conditions such as sesamoiditis (inflammation of the sesamoid bones), bursitis, or capsulitis. The pads provide cushioning and support to reduce pressure on the affected area, helping to relieve pain and improve comfort.