ORTHOSES-METATARSALGIA

SUMMARY

1. Relief of pain in the forefoot is accomplished by distributing the weight-bearing forces to an area proximal to the metatarsal heads by placing a metatarsal pad just proximal to the 2-4 MT heads.

2. A metatarsal bar is recommended for cases in which the foot is too sensitive to tolerate a pad inside the shoe.

3. A rocker bottom can also be used for metatarsalgia to decrease the force on the metatarsal pad region at push off.

4. Patients should avoid shoes with high heels or pointed toes, which place excess stress on the MT heads.

Reference(s)

Cifu, D.X. (2020). Braddom’s physical medicine and rehabilitation. Elsevier. Get it on Amazon.
Cuccurullo, S. (2019). Physical medicine and rehabilitation board review. New York: Demosmedical. Get it on Amazon.
O’Young, B., Young, M.A. and Stiens, S.A. (2008). Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Secrets. Mosby. Get it on Amazon.