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Metatarsal Bars - Soft Rectangle Shape - 10 Pairs

Used to add broader support behind the ball of the foot and help redistribute pressure around the forefoot.

They are commonly used in orthotic, insole and footwear adaptations where metatarsal pressure or ball-of-foot irritation needs to be managed.

Sold: Pack of 10 Pairs

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£26.14 £21.78

Sold: Pack of 10 Pairs

Incl. VAT Exl. VAT

£26.14 £21.78

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Product Description

Metatarsal Bars - Soft Rectangle Shape - 10 Pairs

Soft rectangle metatarsal bars designed for insole, orthotic and footwear adaptations where broader forefoot pressure redistribution is required. Supplied as a pack of 10 pairs, they provide a soft support platform behind the metatarsal heads to help improve comfort around the ball of the foot.

These bars are commonly used by podiatrists, orthotists, clinicians and orthotic technicians to support forefoot offloading for metatarsalgia-type discomfort, Morton’s neuroma-related irritation, forefoot pressure and shoe-related friction.

Key Selling Points

Soft rectangular support: provides a broader contact area than small dome-shaped metatarsal pads.
Helps redistribute forefoot pressure: positioned behind the metatarsal heads to reduce concentrated loading around the ball of the foot.
Three size options: available in different thickness, length and width combinations for fitting flexibility.
Low Shore values: soft support options with Shore ratings from 11 to 14.
Synthetic foam construction: made from synthetic foam materials, with no natural rubber used.
Clinic-friendly pack: supplied as 10 pairs for orthotic workshops, repeat fitting and multi-shoe applications.

What It Does and How It Works

A metatarsal bar is fitted behind the metatarsal heads, rather than directly underneath the painful ball-of-foot area. Correct placement helps spread load across the forefoot and can reduce localised pressure beneath the metatarsal heads.

The soft rectangle shape gives a wider support surface than many small metatarsal pads. This can be useful when a broader forefoot lift or cushioned support area is needed inside an insole, shoe or orthotic device.

Common Problems It May Help With

Ball-of-foot pain and forefoot pressure
Metatarsalgia-related discomfort
Morton’s neuroma-related irritation
Pressure beneath the metatarsal heads
Forefoot friction inside shoes
Discomfort during prolonged standing or walking
Forefoot fatigue linked with increased time on the feet
Support needs where a wider metatarsal contact area is preferred

Applications and Suitability

These soft rectangle metatarsal bars are suitable for orthotic modification, insole adaptation and footwear fitting where a wider forefoot support area is needed. They may be bonded to a shoe, daily-use insole or orthotic aid when the correct position has been identified.

Typical Users

Podiatrists and chiropodists
Orthotists and orthotic technicians
Physiotherapists supporting gait and foot function
Clinics carrying out insole and footwear adaptations
Patients requiring forefoot pressure redistribution under suitable guidance

Common Settings

Orthotic workshops
Podiatry clinics
Insole modification
Footwear adaptation
Pressure-management and gait support plans

Who It May Not Suit

This product may not be suitable for use over open wounds, broken skin, active infection, severe swelling or unexplained foot pain that has not been assessed. People with diabetes, neuropathy, poor circulation, reduced sensation or a history of foot ulceration should seek professional advice before using pressure-altering foot supports.

It may also be unsuitable for tight, shallow or low-volume footwear where the added thickness could increase pressure. The 10 mm options in particular require enough internal shoe depth to avoid crowding the forefoot.

Product Specifications

Product name

Metatarsal Bars - Soft Rectangle Shape - 10 Pairs

Product type

Soft rectangular metatarsal bar for forefoot support

Pack size

10 pairs

Shape

Rectangle

Material

Synthetic foam materials, including EVA or, where indicated, PU polyurethane. No natural rubber is used.

Primary use

Forefoot pressure redistribution, metatarsal support, orthotic modification and insole adaptation

Available sizes and dimensions

Order code	Thickness	Length	Width	Shore
SE1101	7 mm	79 mm	61 mm	11
SE1102	10 mm	78 mm	65 mm	12
SE1103	10 mm	78 mm	70 mm	14

Dimension note

Dimensions are subject to batch variations.

Related download

Metatarsal and Valgus Pads Dimensions PDF

Usage Instructions

Place the metatarsal bar at the beginning of the arch near the forefoot.
Ensure the bar presses into the space behind the ball of the foot, not directly underneath the ball of the foot.
Position the flatter edge just behind the metatarsal heads, with the tapered edge facing towards the heel.
Adjust the position according to the forefoot issue being supported. For neuroma-type symptoms between the third and fourth toes, the bar may need to sit slightly towards the outside of the forefoot.
For pain around the ball of the second toe, the bar may need to be moved slightly towards the inside of the foot to add support in that area.
Trial the position before permanent bonding, as small changes in placement can significantly affect comfort.
Secure the bar to the shoe, insole or orthotic aid using a suitable spray adhesive, contact adhesive or double-sided tape.
Check comfort during initial wear and inspect the skin after use, especially when increasing wear time or changing position.

Benefits

For Clinical Fitting

Broader rectangular shape for wider forefoot support
Three size and firmness combinations for fitting flexibility
Useful for modifying insoles, orthoses and suitable footwear
Supplied in 10-pair packs for clinic and workshop use
Can be positioned according to symptoms and pressure pattern

For Wearer Comfort

Helps reduce pressure beneath the ball of the foot
May improve comfort during walking and standing
Can help reduce forefoot friction and irritation
Supports pressure redistribution behind the metatarsal heads
Soft material helps provide cushioned support inside suitable footwear

Contraindications and Warnings

Do not use directly over open wounds, broken skin, infected areas or active skin irritation.
Stop use if pain, rubbing, pressure marks, numbness or skin irritation occurs.
Incorrect placement may increase discomfort or create new pressure points.
Users with diabetes, neuropathy, poor circulation or reduced sensation should use only with professional guidance.
Ensure footwear has enough internal depth and width to accommodate the bar comfortably.
Build up wear time gradually when using the bar for the first time.
Use adhesives and tapes in line with their own instructions and suitability guidance.

FAQs

What are soft rectangle metatarsal bars used for?

They are used to add broader support behind the ball of the foot and help redistribute pressure around the forefoot. They are commonly used in orthotic, insole and footwear adaptations where metatarsal pressure or ball-of-foot irritation needs to be managed.

How are metatarsal bars different from metatarsal pads?

A metatarsal bar generally provides a wider support surface across the forefoot than a smaller dome-style metatarsal pad. This can be useful where broader offloading or a longer support area is needed behind the metatarsal heads.

Where should the bar be positioned?

The bar should sit just behind the metatarsal heads, not directly underneath the painful ball-of-foot area. The flatter edge should sit behind the metatarsal heads, with the tapered edge pointing towards the heel.

Can these bars help with metatarsalgia?

They may help reduce pressure beneath the metatarsal heads when correctly positioned behind the ball of the foot. Persistent, worsening or unexplained metatarsalgia should be assessed by a qualified healthcare professional.

Are they suitable for Morton’s neuroma?

Metatarsal supports are commonly used to help offload pressure around the forefoot, including discomfort associated with Morton’s neuroma. Correct placement is important and may need to be adjusted depending on whether symptoms are located between the third and fourth toes or in another forefoot area.

Which size should I choose?

Size choice should be based on the required thickness, width, footwear space and the level of support needed. SE1101 is the lowest thickness option at 7 mm, while SE1102 and SE1103 are 10 mm options with wider profiles.

Can they be used inside normal shoes?

Yes, they can be used inside suitable footwear where there is enough internal depth and forefoot space. Tight or shallow shoes may not accommodate the bar comfortably and may increase pressure.

How do I attach the metatarsal bar?

The bar can be attached to a shoe, insole or orthotic device using a suitable spray adhesive, contact adhesive or double-sided tape. Suitable options include Orthafix Spray Adhesive, Orthabond Contact Adhesive or double-sided adhesive tape.

Do these metatarsal bars contain natural rubber?

No natural rubber is used in these synthetic foam metatarsal bars. This may be useful where rubber content is a concern, although users with known sensitivities should always check suitability before use.

Can the bar be moved after fitting?

The position can be adjusted before final fixing to find the most comfortable and effective placement. Once bonded with adhesive, repositioning may be more difficult, so trial placement is recommended before permanent attachment.

Product Summary

Metatarsal Bars - Soft Rectangle Shape - 10 Pairs are soft synthetic foam forefoot supports for orthotic, insole and footwear adaptations. Positioned behind the metatarsal heads, they help redistribute pressure away from the ball of the foot and may improve comfort for people experiencing metatarsalgia, Morton’s neuroma-related discomfort, forefoot pressure or shoe-related irritation.