Effects of Prefabricated Foot Orthoses With and Without Metatarsal Pads on Central Metatarsalgia

Effects of Prefabricated Foot Orthoses With and Without Metatarsal Pads in People With Central Metatarsalgia: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Compare the effects of prefabricated foot orthoses with and without metatarsal pads on pain intensity in the 2nd to 4th metatarsophalangeal joints, foot and ankle functional abilities as well as the occurrence of plantar callosities among patients with central metatarsalgia.

Metatarsalgia is a common condition that affecting about 10% of the general population. Central metatarsalgia involves pathology of the 2nd to 4th metatarsal and their respective metatarsophalangeal joints. This randomized control trial is designed to compare the effects of prefabricated foot orthoses with and without metatarsal pads on pain intensity, foot and ankle functional abilities as well as the occurrence of plantar callosities.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age ≥ 18 years;
• Complain of foot pain on the 2nd to 4th MTPJs during walking in shoes, rating the pain intensity as ≥ 50mm on the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS);
• Able to be ambulant

Exclusion Criteria:

• Peripheral vascular disease (PVD)
• Neurological dysfunctions or neuromuscular disorders
• Active infection, i.e., cellulitis, osteomyelitis, shingles
• Cognitive impairment
• History of lower limb surgery and currently undergoing rehabilitation
• Active ulceration on foot and ankle
• Current utilization of prescribed insoles