Medial/ lateral sole wedges are used for which problem?

• A. Fixed lateral forefoot valgus or varus
• B. Metarsalgia
• C. Pes planus
• D. Upper cervical SCI

Answer: (A)

Sole wedges are used to change the forefoot’s position relative to the hindfoot when there is a rigid (fixed) misalignment in the forefoot. In a fixed lateral forefoot valgus or varus, the forefoot sits off the normal alignment and cannot compensate during stance, so placing a medial or lateral wedge under the forefoot helps tilt the forefoot toward a more neutral position and distribute plantar pressures more evenly. This provides a static correction that improves alignment and gait mechanics.

These wedges aren’t primarily for metatarsalgia, which is usually addressed with padding or other pressure-relief strategies under the metatarsal heads, nor are they the main remedy for pes planus (which typically uses arch support). Upper cervical spinal cord injury is unrelated to forefoot positioning.