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Off-loading general-purpose forefoot pads - which one is best for my needs?

Forefoot Pads - treating forefoot pain

The second category of forefoot pads is general-purpose off-loading pads. By off-loading, we're referring to a pad that is placed adjacent to the area that is being treated.

General-purpose off-loading pads are used in the treatment of forefoot capsulitis, forefoot bursitis, forefoot callus, Morton's neuroma, and metatarsalgia. Off-loading pads generally take up less space in the shoe compared to a direct load pad. General-purpose off-loading pads can be applied directly to the foot as a single-use or re-usable pad. They can also be applied to the shoe. And lastly, general-purpose off-loading pads can be on an insert that resides in the shoe, such as on an arch support. The pros and cons of these categories are often based upon the intended use of the pad. For instance, use in a slip-on dress shoe vs. a work boot is very different.

Examples of single-use general-purpose off-loading pads that would be applied directly to the foot include -

Picture of Arch Binder with Metatarsal Pad Picture of Neuroma Pads - Mini Felt Picture of Metatarsal Pad - Felt Picture of Metatarsal Pad - Foam Picture of Metatarsal Pads-PPT

Examples of a reusable general purpose off-loading pad include -

Picture of Reusable Gel Ball-of-Foot Cushions

Examples of general-purpose off-loading pads that can be applied into the shoe include -

Picture of Neuroma Pads - Mini Felt Picture of Metatarsal Bar PPT Cushions Picture of Metatarsal Pad - Felt Picture of Pedag T-Form Metatarsal Pads Picture of Metatarsal Pad - Foam Picture of Metatarsal Pads-PPT Clear gel metatarsal pad Pedag Drop Metatarsal Pad

Examples of general-purpose off-loading pads that are also inserts include -

Picture of Hallux Trainer Insoles Picture of Pedag Relax Shoe Insoles Picture of Pedag COMFORT Supports Picture of Pedag Pro-Active XCO Inserts Picture of Pedag Viva Full Length Arch Supports Picture of Pedag VIVA MINI Arch Support Picture of Pedag VIVA SUMMER Insoles

Each of these pads is going to have one little advantage over another. For instance, one might be best used in tennis shoes and another in dress shoes. The inserts with general-purpose off-loading pads are going to be an easy fit in most cases. Once the insert is in the shoe you just don't have to worry anymore. Makes life easy. If you have questions, be sure to contact our sales staff for guidance.

Jeff

Dr. Jeffrey Oster

Jeffrey A. Oster, DPM
Medical Advisor
Myfootshop.com

Updated 12/27/19

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