Metatarsal sleeves provide much-needed relief to conditions caused
by metatarsalgia
Metatarsalgia is a term used to describe pain in the bones and
joints of the metatarsal region of the foot. The metatarsal
region is the ball of the foot, the area located right before the
toes.
Pain in the region is usually the result of excessive pressure over
a period of time. The pain can be acute, chronic and recurrent.
Causes of pain include ill-fitting shoes, especially high heels,
which put pressure on the balls of the feet. High-impact activities
that put excessive pressure on the feet also can lead to pain. Older
people may be more susceptible to pain as well, because fat pads
in the feet tend to thin out with age.
Treating metatarsalgia
The first step in treatment is determining the cause of pain. If
improper footwear is causing metatarsalgia, footwear must be changed.
Often, low-heeled footwear with a wide toe area is recommended.
Your physician also may recommend footcare products. Orthotics designed
to relieve pain usually use a metatarsal pad placed behind the ball
of the foot, which helps to relieve pressure and redistribute weight.
Other products include gel cushions and metatarsal sleeves.
How does a metatarsal sleeve work?
The metatarsal elastic sleeve
easily slips over the front of the foot. The sleeve contains a circular
gel pad which, when properly placed, rests below the ball of the
foot. The gel pad provides extra cushioning.
The metatarsal sleeve should not be worn day and night. Instead,
it should be removed at least every three to four hours so skin
can breath. Talk to your physician about proper use.
Because the metatarsal sleeve uses elastic for a snug fit, those
with diabetes or other circulatory conditions should not use this
product.
The products should be handwashable for easy care.
Metatarsal orthotics
right at your fingertips
For a variety of metatarsal sleeve products, see our product menu
at right.
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