Metatarsal Pads, or Met Pads, are small inserts placed inside shoes to provide support and cushioning to the ball of the foot. They are designed to alleviate pain and discomfort in the metatarsal area, the part of the foot that connects the toes to the ankle.
The ball of the foot is subject to a lot of pressure and stress when walking, running, or standing. Metatarsal pads can help alleviate this pressure and reduce the risk of developing painful conditions such as metatarsalgia, plantar fasciitis, and Morton’s neuroma.
Here are some of the benefits of using metatarsal pads.
What are the Benefits of Met Pads?
Pain Relief
Metatarsal pads can help alleviate pain in the ball of the foot, which is a common issue for many people.
This is particularly true for those with conditions such as metatarsalgia, which is characterized by pain and inflammation in the metatarsal area.
Improved Comfort
By cushioning the metatarsal area, metatarsal pads can provide increased comfort when walking or standing for long periods.
This can be especially beneficial for people who spend a lot of time on their feet, such as athletes, nurses, and construction workers.
Reduced Risk of Injury
Metatarsal pads can help distribute pressure more evenly across the foot, reducing the risk of developing painful conditions such as plantar fasciitis and Morton’s neuroma.
Better Balance
Met pads can help improve balance and stability, particularly for individuals who have problems with their gait, or suffer from conditions such as flat feet.
Enhanced Athletic Performance
By reducing pain and discomfort in the ball of the foot, metatarsal pads can help improve athletic performance, particularly for runners and dancers.
Better Posture
By providing support and cushioning to the ball of the foot, metatarsal pads can help improve posture and reduce the risk of developing conditions such as back pain and knee pain.
Increased Longevity of Shoes
Metatarsal pads can help extend the life of shoes by reducing the wear and tear on the footbed.
How to Get Custom Met Pads
Metatarsal pads offer a variety of benefits for people of all ages and professions. Whether you are an athlete, nurse, construction worker, or just someone who spends a lot of time on your feet, metatarsal pads can help alleviate pain and discomfort, improve comfort, reduce the risk of injury, and enhance athletic performance. By considering the benefits of metatarsal pads, you can decide what is best for your unique needs and circumstances.
Custom met pads are available through URthotics and are included in the price of the custom orthotic. All areas of the foot are considered during the manufacturing process to relieve pain and pressure and provide you with maximum comfort.
With the use of offsets like met pads and heel lifts, our custom orthotics help improve balance and correct gait by combating all your foot conditions. Use our free analysis tool to help narrow down which type of orthotic is best for you!