Custom shoe inserts could ease chronic foot pain

NCT ID NCT06962475

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether custom foot orthoses (special shoe inserts with a wedge and pad) can reduce pain and improve foot function in people with chronic metatarsalgia, a condition causing persistent pain under the ball of the foot. Sixty-four adults with at least 3 months of foot pain will receive either custom orthoses or sham (fake) orthoses and be followed for 12 weeks. The goal is to see if the custom design offers real relief compared to a placebo.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
custom foot orthoses (medially wedged with metatarsal pad)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could provide an effective, non-invasive option for reducing foot pain and improving daily function in people with chronic metatarsalgia.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-stage trial with only 64 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The sham orthoses may also provide some benefit, making it harder to prove a clear advantage.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Metatarsalgia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières

    RECRUITING

    Trois-Rivières, Quebec, G9A 5H7, Canada

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