Metatarsalgia is a common foot condition in which the ball of your foot becomes inflamed and painful. It tends to develop when individuals spend a lot of time on their feet engaged in high impact activities such as running or playing sports.
It’s vital for individuals with such a condition to support their feet with the help of quality insoles for shoes. We, therefore, present a quality list of eight of the best insoles for metatarsalgia to help alleviate the pain and better manage the condition.
This is our list of the top eight insoles for metatarsalgia for your consideration:
How To Pick the Best Insoles for Metatarsalgia
We list a few factors that you should definitely consider before picking up the right insoles to tackle your metatarsalgia.
Materials
The type of material used in your insoles will significantly affect your comfort levels and have a direct impact on the condition of your foot over time. Metatarsalgia occurs due to the pain in the ball of the foot region, but this pain can be managed thanks to the use of intelligent materials in your insoles.
The ideal materials that can be used for individuals with metatarsalgia include EVA foam and gel pads. EVA foam is extremely soft and well-cushioned and will work well for individuals who spend a lot of time on their feet.
Some models, such as the Powerstep Pinnacle, also include variable cushioning technology in their EVA foam. This accurately shapes the structure of the insoles to match the requirements of your feet.
Another quality material worth your consideration is the gel pad technology that’s employed in models such as the Easyfeet Plantar Fasciitis Arch Support Insoles. This material helps cushion the blow from sudden impacts and plays a major role in protecting your foot health over time.
Metatarsal Pads
One of the most crucial features to look out for when checking out insoles and shoes for metatarsalgia is the metatarsal pads found in products such as the Emsold Ultra Thin Orthotic with Metatarsal Pad.
These pads help support the forefoot and also support the ball of the foot region, as these are areas commonly associated with metatarsalgia. Thanks to this small but vital design choice, you can help alleviate the pain that comes with this foot condition and eventually play down the effects of the problem over time.
Antimicrobial Top Layer
It’s important to consider inserts that not only offer padding for metatarsalgia but also help preserve your foot health in order to prevent other conditions from developing over time.
One such feature that’s crucial in maintaining foot health and sanitation is the use of an antimicrobial coating on the top layer of the inserts. Thanks to this coating, the heat and friction that’s often generated within the shoes during extended periods of usage is greatly reduced. This has multiple benefits for your feet.
Firstly, you’re less likely to develop blisters if you’re the type of individual who spends extended hours on your feet throughout the day.
Second, the odors that are generated from your feet after a long day’s work can be disheartening, but the antimicrobial layer helps prevent these odors from building over time.
Third, this layer also improves the breathability of the insoles and helps your feet and shoes get a good circulation of air. This has a direct impact on your comfort levels as well.
Therefore, it’s evident that antimicrobial layers found on products such as the Powerstep Pinnacle is a crucial factor to consider before picking up an insert.
Arch-Support
Metatarsalgia also develops due to improper foot positioning over extended periods of time, and this often points to the usage of footwear with poor support and stability.
In order to assist your footwear in this department, you can look for inserts that offer arch support for your feet. A semi-rigid arch support system, in particular, works extremely well for individuals with metatarsalgia. This is because it offers the perfect blend of rigidity and flexibility that’s not too difficult on your feet.
A product that utilizes this feature is the Emsold Ultra Thin Orthotic with Metatarsal Pad.
Functionality
Apart from helping you tackle your metatarsalgia and foot pain, it would also be great if your insole can be used for a wide range of functions such as walking, running, cross-training, and playing sports.
It always pays to look for a model with a high level of functionality built into the design. A classic example of this is the Easyfeet Plantar Fasciitis Arch Support Insoles.
Reviews of the Best Insoles for Metatarsalgia
Our Overview
The inserts produced by Pure Stride stand head and shoulders above the competition, thanks to their supreme quality and affordable pricing. This is why this product has garnered such incredible reviews across various platforms.
You can use these inserts to tackle various foot ailments such as Plantar Fascilitis, knee pain, Achilles pain, metatarsalgia, and toe pain.
These inserts are made from premium materials and utilize a four-layered design in order to properly cushion your feet and prevent you from taking on unnecessary shocks or impacts in your stride.
You can pick these up in various sizes as it’s vital that you find the right size to match your feet. Even if you pick up a model that’s close to your size, you can always trim this product to customize it for a perfect fitting.
The Pure Stride arch support system utilized in this model offers additional support and stability for your feet and also prevents you from worsening any preexisting foot conditions.
Users, however, have noted that the lack of a return policy can be an issue for some people who are unhappy with these inserts.
Pros:
- Made from premium materials.
- Uses four layers for additional comfort.
- Available in multiple sizes; easy to customize.
- The design uses a Pure Stride arch support system.
Cons:
- Lack of a return policy.
Our Overview
This product by Powerstep is a power-packed model that’s made using top of the line EVA foam and has an antimicrobial coating on its top layer. Thanks to this material, you’re sure to feel extremely comfortable while using these shoe insoles. Plus, the antimicrobial coating will prevent your shoes from generating or sustaining odors.
The durable EVA foam base is also coupled with a plush top layer to add to your comfort levels. Even the variable cushioning technology that’s been applied on this product helps control the cushioning of the insoles during your stride and thereby enhances your overall experience with these insoles.
A flexible and firm semi-rigid arch support system has also been applied to the design of this insole to heighten your stability. You also have a deep heel cradle that’s ideal for motion control as you run or walk swiftly.
The antimicrobial top layer of this product is also great for reducing the heat and friction generated within your shoes. This makes it an excellent choice when you’re involved in jobs that require you to stay on your feet for extended periods of time. You’ll also greatly reduce your chance of getting blisters while you use this product in your shoes.
Most importantly, however, this is a great product for those who are dealing with various foot pain issues such as shoes metatarsalgia, plantar fasciitis, pronation, heel and arch pain, and even flat feet.
These versatile inserts are compatible with low, high, and neutral arch types and can also be competently paired with all types of footwear, including athletic, dress, work shoes, boots, and casual shoes for metatarsalgia.
The only drawback of this model is its overall durability. Some users have had to replace this model after a few months based on their usage, so that’s something to be watchful about when picking up this model.
Pros:
- Materials used include a durable EVA foam base.
- Has an antimicrobial top layer.
- Comes with a semi-rigid arch support.
- Ideal for individuals with foot pain and problems.
- Versatile insoles that are compatible with all arch types.
Cons:
- Mediocre durability.
Our Overview
These Emsold insoles can be used by both men and women. They feature a three-quarter length and super thin design that allows them to be paired with most shoes.
A semi-rigid arch support system is coupled with a deep heel cup and a metatarsal pad in this insole to offer great biomechanical support to the ball of your foot. This makes it an ideal choice for people who are dealing with various foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, flat feet, and arthritis.
The use of metatarsal pads, in particular, is crucial for those with metatarsalgia as they can help relieve the foot pain generated in the metatarsal bones and forefoot region. You can also use this key feature to tackle similar conditions, such as Morton’s Neuroma, sesamoiditis, and arthritis.
These soft and well-cushioned pads will help spread the pain from the forefoot and support the ball of foot area as you take on various high impact activities such as running or playing sports.
A genuine leather cover has been offered as the top layer of this model to help keep your feet dry across the day. This will also increase the durability and comfort levels for the user.
The only real issue with this product is the return policy of the brand, as it costs nearly 25 percent of the original price of the product to return these insoles.
Pros:
- Can be used by men and women.
- A smart three-quarter design with a deep heel cup.
- Includes a metatarsal pad.
- Ideal for individuals with foot pain.
- A genuine leather cover makes these inserts durable.
Cons:
- Expensive to return this product.
Our Overview
The Protalus M100 Max series is a tried and tested pair of inserts that work well to align your body by supporting the subtalar joint. This helps to prevent overpronation and over-supination, all the while assisting with your metatarsalgia as well.
Thanks to this alignment, you get metatarsal support—plus, the stress on your hips, ankles, and knees is greatly reduced too.
The use of high-quality materials in this product aims to reduce the impact of your stride, while the moisture-wicking capabilities offer excellent comfort levels across the day.
This is an insole that works well for active men, women, and kids. It can be used for a wide range of activities, such as hiking, running, and various sports.
According to the manufacturers, this product has been scientifically proven to improve the alignment of the ankle by 31 percent when compared to standard inserts found on the market.
The premium pricing of this product does throw off a lot of customers, but you should still consider this model for its superior features.
Pros:
- Offers excellent alignment by supporting subtalar joints.
- Provides less pressure on your feet.
- Helps maximize your comfort levels.
- Ideal for active men, women, and kids.
Cons:
- Premium price.
Our Overview
This excellent product by the Walk Hero brand offers top quality arch support for your feet in order to strengthen your foot and leg alignment. It also enhances your overall comfort levels by easing the stress and pain that’s often caused by medical conditions such as metatarsalgia and pronation.
Thanks to the deep heel cup used in the design, you will be able to maintain a correct foot pronation during your stride. This feature also helps in preventing heavy impact on your feet and stabilizes your foot.
The use of premium quality EVA foam on these inserts offers unparalleled comfort for your feet. This material also doubles up as a shock absorbent and assists with pain relief as well.
You can consider this model for everyday use, such as walking and taking on gentle hikes. These inserts can be inserted into hiking shoes, work shoes, and boots.
Although this product has great features, users have reported that the customer service of the brand is lacking.
Pros:
- Offers excellent arch support.
- Deep heel cup maintains the correct foot position.
- Designed for daily use.
- Uses premium EVA material.
Cons:
- Mediocre customer service.
Our Overview
Easyfeet makes some truly world-class insoles, and this particular model is a great example of their exemplary quality.
These are a set of premium insoles that are recommended by podiatrists for both men and women. They offer high arch support and can be used to tackle various foot pain problems such as metatarsalgia and plantar fasciitis.
Versatility is the keyword when it comes to this model as it can be used by any gender, any age group, can be paired with any type of footwear, and works well with any activity.
Premium materials help boost the quality of this product and this comes down to the hard TPU and cushioning layer offered here, along with a PU memory foam base.
This feature, however, is a double-edged sword, as some users find the firm TPU to be a bit too hard for their liking.
Pros:
- Offers high arch support.
- Can be used by any gender and any age.
- Ideal for all types of activities and footwear.
- Made using high-quality TPU and PU memory foam base.
Cons:
- Firm TPU may be too hard for some users.
Our Overview
Physix Gear is a brand that prides itself on its design choices when it comes to creating high-quality medical-grade insoles. This model sports high arch support and is specifically designed to balance the force structure of your foot.
Thanks to this design, it works really well for individuals with foot problems such as metatarsalgia, runner’s knee, and Achilles tendinitis.
The use of superior materials also boosts the usage of this product, and this is seen in the PU material and high-performance EVA foam used in this model.
A deep heel cradle also boosts the overall stability of the product, while the low profile ultra-thin design ensures that your feet remain comfortable even after a hard day’s work.
Customers only seem to have an issue with the shock absorption feature of this model, which could be better.
Pros:
- Offers high arch support.
- Ideal for medical conditions.
- Made using high-quality EVA foam and PU material.
- Useful for a wide range of high-intensity activities.
Cons:
- Mediocre shock absorption.
Our Overview
No “best insole” list can be complete without the inclusion of at least one Dr. Scholl’s product, as these are some truly reliable insoles for individuals with foot problems.
This particular model by the Dr. Scholl’s brand is specifically designed for people who spend a lot of time on their feet.
The design features a special double-layer system that not only provides support and cushioning for your feet, but also sustains these levels across extended periods.
A bottom layer that’s made of sure grip foam helps to keep this product in place and also prevents wrinkling and bunching under your foot. Boy, that’s annoying when it happens!
If you’re not happy with the exact size of the model you’ve picked out for yourself, you can always trim these insoles easily to fit your feet perfectly.
Additionally, and as always, Dr. Scholl’s offers a money-back guarantee for any user who is unhappy with their product.
The only major drawback of this model seems to be with regard to its durability, so they may not last as long as you expect.
Pros:
- Ideal for individuals who spend all day on their feet.
- A double-layer system doubles your comfort levels.
- Sure grip foam used in the bottom layer offers stability.
- You can easily trim these insoles for a perfect fit.
- Money-back guarantee.
Cons:
- Durability could be better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Insoles Help Metatarsalgia?
Yes, insoles can be great to help with foot issues such as metatarsalgia. They can offer support in the right regions of your feet, make your experience in your footwear far more comfortable, and help preserve your foot health over time.
What Are the Best Inserts for Ball of Foot Pain?
The Emsold Ultra Thin Orthotic with Metatarsal Pad is a great example of an insole that works well for the ball of foot pain. This is largely thanks to the availability of a metatarsal pad in this model that’s specifically designed to help assist and alleviate the pain in the ball of your foot.
Do Arch Supports Help Metatarsalgia?
Yes, arch support, especially semi-rigid arch support, can be great in helping you deal with metatarsalgia. This condition comes down to improper support and stability in various crucial regions of your feet, and arch support helps to tackle this issue head-on.
What Is the Best Treatment for Metatarsalgia?
The best treatment for metatarsalgia involves taking rest, icing the affected area, wearing proper shoes and inserts, using pads for metatarsal, and using arch supports. Take the pressure off your feet whenever possible, and when you rest, it’s best to keep your feet raised.
Metatarsalgia Be-Gone!
There’s no escaping our feet. They are the best form of mobility gifted to the human race and we’re meant to bear the brunt of their many positives and negatives. Taking care of your foot health, however, is not as complicated as it may seem, and using the right insoles can be all it takes to tackle or prevent conditions such as metatarsalgia.
The above list of eight stellar products will help you do exactly that so you can stay light on your feet and remain comfortable on these most vital limbs. Using these insoles would make Johnny Walker proud, as it helps you do one crucial thing with ease — Keep Walking!
