Definition: Scaphoid pads, metatarsal pads and metatarsal bars are sometimes called “cookies”! They are generally made of softer materials with adhesive on them so they can be placed directly in the shoe or on the shoe’s insole.
Metatarsal Pad
Metatarsal pads are placed directly behind the metatarsals. The pad spreads the metatarsal bones and supports part of the arch. These pads reduce pressure at the forefoot and are good for those with metatarsal pain and Morton’s Neuroma.
Metatarsal Bars
Metatarsal bars perform the same function as the metatarsal pads but are wider, presumably reducing pressure across more of the forefoot. Deciding whether to use a metatarsal pad or a bar is mostly a matter of comfort. For some, the bars feel too intrusive.
External Metatarsal Bar
Metatarsal bars can be placed on the outside of the shoe too. They are shaped like a narrow rectangle and glued on the exterior sole of the shoe right behind the metatarsals. This feels somewhat like walking over a broomstick to some but for those with serious forefoot issues, it works very well. This is easy to do with the right materials at hand and shoe repair shops can do it if shown.
Schaphoid Pad
A schaphoid pad is placed in the longitudinal arch up against the inside of the shoe. It is what most think of as “arch support” as that is where the arch is. By comparison, metatarsal pads are in center of the foot. Scaphoid pads will support the longitudinal arch but don’t address forefoot issues.
Pads and cookies are good for very shallow dress shoes (women’s) or men’s and women’s slippers that will not accommodate even the thinnest arch support. They are good for these specific uses but should not replace arch supports with metatarsal lifts in all other shoes.
Benefits: These are adequate devices for the limited use described above. They are inexpensive. They are not optimal in terms of everyday shoe wear and the rest of the shoes in one’s wardrobe, however.
Text: Copyright 2007-2010 Carole Romig Image: First – oolabl.com, Second – Hapad.com, Third – Hapad.com, Fourth – Liftmelevel.com