Overview

Ever felt a sharp pain or discomfort in the forefoot area? Common to many, Metatarsalgia is a treatable condition in which the metatarsals (bones in the forefoot) become inflamed and feel painful. It is generally caused when you put excess pressure on the forefoot area or injure them while doing intense training or certain activities. Poorly fitted shoes, Morton’s neuroma, stress fractures, and certain foot deformities can be some of the other reasons for metatarsalgia. 

When left untreated, pain in metatarsalgia (also known as “Stone Bruise”) can expedite elsewhere such as the lower back and the hip. This eventually leads to an abnormal gait and you may feel off balance while walking. To prevent or minimize future problems, your podiatrist will recommend shock-absorbing insoles for metatarsalgia. 

The Best Insoles for Metatarsalgia

• Best Overall : 10 Seconds 3030 Pressure Relief insoles with Metatarsal Support on Amazon for $39.99. 

• Best for Work: 10 Seconds Ultra Arch Support 3810 with Metatarsal Pad Amazon for $64.99.

• Best for Overweight individuals: Cushwork Metatarsal Heavy Duty Arch Support Insoles Amazon for $39.99. 

• Best for High Impact Activities: Superfeet All Purpose High Impact Support for $59.99. 

• Best for Lightweight activities: Currex Lifefit with Metatarsal Cushioning on Amazon for $69.95. 

• Best for Sensitive Feet : Pedag Viva Arch Support Inserts with Metatarsal Pads on Amazon for $39.99. 

• Best Runner-up : Powerstep Pinnacle Plus Insoles on Amazon for $49.95. 

How We Test

To determine the best insoles for metatarsalgia, we paid special attention to flexibility, durability, comfort, weight-bearing capacity, and special features such as metatarsal padding and forefoot cushioning. 

A performance check of 25 popular insoles for the category was done for 8 weeks. To evaluate their maximum capabilities, fifteen selected candidates with complaints of mild to moderate metatarsalgia were asked to try these insoles for walking, running, and doing intense activities for 6+ hours each day. 

Based on vigorous testing and the ability to minimize and provide gradual relief to metatarsalgia and ball of foot pain, the following 7 best insoles were finally shortlisted: 

7 Best insoles for Metatarsalgia

(#7) Seconds 3030 Pressure Relief Insoles

On top of our list is the 10 Seconds 3030 Pressure Relief Insoles. These insoles are proven effective for providing optimized support for metatarsalgia, plantar fasciitis, and Morton’s neuroma. When used with the right set of shoes, the 10-Seconds insoles relieve pain, especially in the transverse arch and the ball of foot area. 

After testing for a month, most candidates agreed that these insoles not only helped them walk effortlessly but also prevented the condition from recurring. Surprisingly, the insoles provided great relief to arthritis and our diabetic patients who were affected with neuropathy - all thanks to its extra protective Plastazote top cover. The multiple cushioning layers provide flexibility while its full-length arch support improves balance and alignment. Not to mention, the set offers excellent shock absorption. 

(#6) Seconds Ultra Arch Support 3810 with Metatarsal Pad

Having high arches and wearing high heels are two key factors that can significantly increase the risk of metatarsalgia or ball of foot pain. To support such foot types, the 10 Seconds Ultra Arch Support 3810 with Metatarsal Pad is a great choice. With impact zone cushioning and strong arch & heel support, it gives the right amount of support to the transverse arch of your foot. 

Extra body weight is yet another reason for metatarsalgia and associated pain. After multiple tests, we found that the 10 Seconds insoles are approved to give good metatarsal support up to 250 lbs. 

What really makes these insoles different is their ‘Carbon’ support structure. This material makes it ideal for effective shock attenuation for walking, running, spending long days on the trail, or even lifting and transferring heavy objects.   

(#5) Cushwork Metatarsal Heavy Duty Arch Support Insoles 

Is being overweight causing you pain in the forefoot area? Well, then the Cushwork’s Heavy Duty Insoles are engineered for you to make effortless strides. These insoles will rapidly help in easing pain and discomfort caused due to overuse of the metatarsals. Note that the insoles work efficiently for individuals who are up to 300 lbs and also for Morton’s neuroma.  

The heavy-duty support of Cushwork’s insoles combined with superior and full-length memory foam cushioning is thoughtfully engineered to maximize biomechanical efficiency through each stride. In a practical environment, our testers felt pain relief after 2-3 weeks of use. The insoles provide a soft bounce-back feel when you move, but without compromising on support. At this price point, 85% of our testers agree that the Cushwork insoles are one of the best over-the-counter alternatives to custom insoles. 

(#4) Superfeet All Purpose High Impact Support

With a reinforced design, the Superfeet All Purpose High Impact Support provides multipurpose support. They fit true to the size and are super lightweight and comfortable. 

The insoles feature maximum insole thickness. While testing, the Superfeet insoles resisted shocks, especially during intense/ high-impact activities, including dancing, trekking, running, HIIT, jumping, and cross-training. The pair also worked very efficiently when tested on concrete floors. 

Along with resilient forefoot cushioning for preventing metatarsalgia pain, the Superfeet insoles has medium-firm underfoot cushioning and a deep heel cup. All of this efficiently redistributes forces and reduces strain from your lower body. 

(#3) PowerStep Pinnacle Plus Insoles

If you have an active lifestyle and are prone to getting injuries, the Powerstep Pinnacle Plus Insoles are clinically proven to protect you from major impacts. Like the ones listed above, the PowerStep insoles also cushion the metatarsal heads. However, what makes it distinct is its clinically-proven design which alleviates a variety of foot conditions. So besides metatarsalgia and ball of foot pain, the Pinnacle insoles are also recommended by podiatrists for preventing arch or heel pain, plantar fasciitis, ankle and knee pain, Morton’s neuroma, and correcting mild to moderate overpronation. 

Indeed, the design provides good motion control to retrain excess stress on the forefoot area, ankles, joints, and tendons. If you have mild to moderate metatarsalgia, the PowerStep Pinnacle usually gives results in 4 to 6 weeks. With a standard insole thickness, it seamlessly fits into most shoe variants. 

(#2) Pedag Viva Arch Support Insoles with Metatarsal Pads

We love that the Pedag Viva Arch Support Inserts with Metatarsal Pads is one of those few insole variants that’re handmade and comes with metatarsal support pads. In fact, these insoles have some exceptional features like an activated charcoal layer for odor control and non-usage of any solvents or harsh chemicals, which makes them both skin and environment-friendly. 

Coming to its performance, the Pedag Viva insoles promote healthy feet and alleviate metatarsalgia, especially if you have sensitive feet/ skin. It prevents fatigue by absorbing shock and thus, minimizes stress and impact on the pressure points. Also, it keeps shoes fresh and neutralizes odor.  

(#1) Currex Lifefit Insoles with Metatarsal Cushioning

The Currex Lifefit with Metatarsal Cushioning made it to our top seven list because of its dynamic support and unique pressure distribution mechanism. The interesting ‘metatarsal dome’ structure with an anatomical 3D support design keeps you moving without pain or discomfort. 

Our testers experienced mixed results with the Currex insoles. For most of them, it worked as a real all-rounder for everyday activities, standing for long hours, and even while working out at the gym. Putting these on gave great stability and just the right amount of support. No wonder, it works great for low levels of metatarsalgia or ball of foot pain. 

Despite this, 15% of our testers experienced cramping, especially during the first few days of use. For maximizing performance with the Currex Lifefit insoles, we highly suggest corroborating with the right specifications (High/medium/Low profile; Knee alignment; and foot size), when purchasing online.  

Things to Consider for insoles for Metatarsalgia

Metatarsalgia is felt as a sharp burning or aching pain in the ball of the foot/metatarsal or the transverse arch area. Resting and wearing good quality insoles at the initial stages is very effective in healing the condition. A few parameters to check before purchasing insoles for metatarsalgia are: 

• Metatarsal Pads: Cushy yet firm metatarsal pads are indispensable for keeping the metatarsals in their natural position and preventing them from being cramped. This also improves shock absorption and removes excess strain from the forefoot area. 

• Shock Absorption: Look for insoles with high shock absorption capacity, especially if you frequently engage in intense/ high-impact activities. For high arch, flat feet, athletes, or runners, invest in insoles with good metatarsal support, which can absorb shock of significant force when you perform these activities. 

• Body Weight: Your insoles should be compatible with your body weight. For overweight individuals, we recommend the Cushwork Metatarsal Heavy Duty insoles which gives support up to 300 lbs. 

• Arch Type: Many researches have shown that overpronation is a common cause of metatarsalgia. If you have overpronated feet, ask your podiatrist to provide the right solution for supporting the transverse arch and the forefoot structure. 

• Toe Box: When having Metatarsalgia, wear compatible shoes, preferably with a wide toe box. This will prevent the toes and the forefoot from squishing. In this way, there is reduced strain in the metatarsal area, especially if you have laxity issues. Also, wear flexible footwear with good cushioning to protect from worsening the condition. 

Bottomline

With the right care and support, Metatarsalgia is an easily treatable condition. However, if Metatarsalgia pain doesn’t improve within 2-3 weeks of using ready-made insoles, you should consult a podiatrist or an orthopedic surgeon. This will help in diagnosing the underlying cause. 

When it comes to finding the right insoles for metatarsalgia, each person can be different. Custom insoles for this condition are designed to fit to the exact foot shape and are aimed to assist in walking or doing everyday activities without any issues. Remember, the earlier you start the treatment, the less the chances of future complications.