Which device is used to increase push-off in weak or inflexible feet?

Which device is used to increase push-off in weak or inflexible feet?

• A. Metatarsal pad
• B. Cushion-heel
• C. UCBL insert
• D. Thomas heel

Answer: (A)

Push-off strength comes from a well-functioning forefoot lever and the windlass mechanism of the arch as the toes rise and the ankle plantarflexes. When the forefoot is weak or inflexible, loading under the metatarsal heads can limit this lever action and blunt toe-off. A metatarsal pad placed just behind the metatarsal heads unloads the heads and shifts load toward the forefoot shaft, which helps the arch rise and the toes extend more effectively during late stance. This improves the efficiency of propulsion and increases push-off in a foot that would otherwise struggle to toe off. The other devices serve different goals—hindfoot stability, arch support, or heel cushioning—rather than specifically enhancing push-off.

Push-off strength comes from a well-functioning forefoot lever and the windlass mechanism of the arch as the toes rise and the ankle plantarflexes. When the forefoot is weak or inflexible, loading under the metatarsal heads can limit this lever action and blunt toe-off. A metatarsal pad placed just behind the metatarsal heads unloads the heads and shifts load toward the forefoot shaft, which helps the arch rise and the toes extend more effectively during late stance. This improves the efficiency of propulsion and increases push-off in a foot that would otherwise struggle to toe off. The other devices serve different goals—hindfoot stability, arch support, or heel cushioning—rather than specifically enhancing push-off.