Compression of the midfoot and forefoot is an integral part of treating both acute and chronic problems of the foot. Indications for midfoot and forefoot compression include midfoot arthritis, non-displaced midfoot fractures or resolved Charcot joints. Indication for compression of the forefoot include management of swelling or metatarsal fractures. Which device is best for your needs? Let's take a look at each of the compression devices we provide on Myfootshop.com.

Forefoot swelling - products for treatment

Compression of the midfoot and forefoot is an integral part of treating both acute and chronic problems of the foot.  Indications for midfoot and forefoot compression include midfoot arthritis, non-displaced midfoot fractures or resolved Charcot joints.  Indications for compression of the forefoot include management of swelling or metatarsal fractures.  Which device is best for your needs?  Let's take a look at each of the compression devices we provide on Myfootshop.com.

The arch binder is a simple 3" elastic band that slips over the forefoot to compress the arch.  The arch binder can be worn directly on the skin or over a sock.  The arch binder fits into all shoes.  I'd recommend the arch binder to anyone with midfoot pain that would respond to compression.  It's easy to use and inexpensive.  I really feel that the arch binder is one of those unsung heros when it comes to treating midfoot pain.

The arch binder with metatarsal pad is just a little twist on the concept of midfoot compression.  The arch binder with metatarsal pad adds a firm metatarsal pad that can be used to treat a number of forefoot conditions including metatarsalgia, forefoot capsulitis, plantar plate tears, and Freiberg's infraction.  The arch binder with metatarsal pad is a very popular product on our site.  The use of the arch binder with metatarsal pad is just the same as the traditional arch binder.  It slips over the forefoot and is worn either directly on the skin or over a sock.  The arch binder with metatarsal pad also fits easily into all shoes.

The forefoot compression sleeve is a little bit different take on forefoot compression.  This is a product that I personally invented.  I saw a need for compression that went beyond what compression hose could offer.  What I created is a forefoot compression device that works very well for management of forefoot swelling following surgery such as metatarsal surgery or bunion surgery.  The forefoot compression sleeve is also a great product to manage metatarsal stress fractures.  The forefoot compression sleeve fits over the forefoot and has a loop that slips over the great toe.

Which forefoot compression device is best for your needs?  The best choice depends upon your individual needs.  Metatarsalgia and metatarsal stress fractures are best treated by the forefoot compression sleeve.  Midfoot pain is best treated by the arch binder or arch binder with metatarsal pad.

Jeff 

Jeffrey A. Oster, DPM

Medical Advisor
Myfootshop.com 

Updated 4/30/2021

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