Metatarsalgia & Forefoot Offloading

Custom orthotics for ball-of-foot pain with targeted met pad for focal pressure or met bar for diffuse forefoot relief and optimal pressure distribution.

Treatment Strategy

Metatarsalgia treatment uses met pad for focal 2nd-3rd head pain and neuroma-like symptoms, while met bar addresses diffuse pressure from fat pad loss or diabetic considerations. The choice depends on pain pattern, location, and underlying cause of forefoot overload.

How This Helps

Forefoot offloading redistributes pressure away from overloaded metatarsal heads, reducing tissue stress and improving sagittal plane function. By addressing the subtalar joint position and providing appropriate arch support, orthotics can eliminate compensatory forefoot loading patterns.

Met Pad (Focal Relief)

  • • Targets specific 2nd-3rd metatarsal heads
  • • Reduces localized pressure and pain
  • • Effective for neuroma-like symptoms
  • • Minimal modification, comfortable adaptation

Met Bar (Diffuse Relief)

  • • Redistributes pressure across entire forefoot
  • • Compensates for fat pad atrophy
  • • Gentle option for diabetic foot care
  • • Broader pressure distribution pattern

Break-in Tips

Week 1

Start with 2-3 hours daily. Focus on comfortable, familiar activities.

Week 2

Gradually increase by 1-2 hours every few days. Monitor comfort levels.

Week 3+

Full adaptation achieved. Wear for all daily activities as needed.

Important Break-in Notes

  • • Some initial pressure sensation is normal as your foot adapts
  • • Remove orthotics if you experience sharp pain or significant discomfort
  • • Met modifications may feel prominent initially but should become comfortable
  • • Contact us if discomfort persists beyond the normal adaptation period

Shoe Fit Considerations

✓ Recommended Shoe Features

  • Adequate depth to accommodate orthotic thickness
  • Wide toe box to prevent forefoot compression
  • Removable insoles for easy orthotic insertion
  • Athletic or supportive walking shoes
  • Low to moderate heel height (≤1.5 inches)

✗ Shoes to Avoid

  • Tight or narrow shoes that compress the forefoot
  • High heels that increase forefoot pressure
  • Minimal or flat shoes without arch support
  • Shoes with non-removable, thick insoles
  • Pointed toe boxes or fashion shoes

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a met pad and met bar?

A met pad targets focal 2nd-3rd head pain or neuroma-like symptoms, while a met bar provides diffuse pressure relief for fat pad loss or diabetic foot care.

How long does it take to break in metatarsalgia orthotics?

Start with 2-3 hours daily and gradually increase by 1-2 hours every few days. Full adaptation typically takes 2-3 weeks for met pad modifications.

What shoes work best with metatarsalgia orthotics?

Choose shoes with adequate depth, wide toe box, and removable insoles. Avoid tight or narrow shoes that compress the forefoot. Athletic shoes or supportive walking shoes often work best.

Get Targeted Forefoot Relief

Our AI determines whether you need focused met pad relief or broader met bar support based on your specific pain pattern and foot structure.

Get Your Custom Insoles in ~3 Minutes

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