Metatarsal Pad Types and the Importance of Placement

Hybrid Metatarsal Pad Placement
Tony Chiappetta
Tony Chiappetta

THE FOOT PROBLEM

In today's episode of Workshop Live, I am adjusting custom orthotics for a new customer with a D15 foot type who is experiencing second and third metatarsal pain in her right foot and medial arch stress in her left foot. This customer is pretty happy with the orthotics in general. After wearing them for six weeks, she was just mentioning that she is still getting a little bit of pain and irritation. So, I am going to make a metatarsal pad orthotic modification.

A foot anatomy diagram showing the second and third metatarsal.
A foot anatomy diagram showing the medial inner arch.

4 Types of Metatarsal Pads:

  • Standard - second, third, and fourth metatarsal coverage
  • Drop - second and third metatarsal coverage
  • Metatarsal Bar - full metatarsal coverage
  • T-Form - extra longitudinal arch support

THE FOOT SOLUTION

For this customer here, I am going to do a hybrid metatarsal pad by combining the standard with a T-form for a little extra longitudinal arch support. I am doing this for accommodation. I could go with a traditional T-form, but I'm not necessarily looking for that full metatarsal bar approach. I would advise people to stick with standard metatarsal pads because so many people are wearing rocker bottom shoes like Hoka. Combining a metatarsal bar with a rocker bottom shoe can be overkill.


I also feel that a lot of metatarsal pads are put in the wrong spot. A lot of companies really don't understand the idea that metatarsal pad placement is very important. Placement of a metatarsal pad is essential for proper functioning and mechanics.


I am looking to add a little extra pressure behind the the second, third and fourth knuckles of her feet. The longitudinal arch support is going more into that middle section accompanying the cuneiform bones and a little bit of of the cuboid. So for this customer, it's always nice to get a little wear and tear on a new custom orthotic, so I can see exactly where I need to go.


I am going to use a 3 millimeter sponge rubber material commonly used in heel lifts. It's a porous rubber that is soft and spongy, but it's still firm enough to make a difference. Now that the hybrid metatarsal pads are glued on in the correct spot, I am going to take it to the grinder to do a little extra tapering. By adding a little extra pressure down in the middle section of her feet, this should work out and solve this customer's problems.

       T-Form Metatarsal Pad                             Orthotic Grinder

YOUR FOOT PAIN SOLUTION

If you or someone you know is experiencing foot pain like arch or metatarsal pain, our certified pedorthic experts are here to help! We offer free foot assessments, make custom orthotics in-house, and provide free orthotic adjustments and modifications.

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