ABC Certified Pedorthist (C-PED) Practice Exam

Relieving pressure under the second metatarsal head by redistributing loads is the goal here. When the forefoot bears heavy pressure at the second ray during walking or push-off, targeted offloading—such as a metatarsal pad or a relief in the insole or a rocker sole—reduces the peak plantar pressure at that site. This minimizes pain and tissue stress at the second metatarsal head and helps prevent further irritation or injury, supporting healing and function. The other options aren’t the primary aim of offloading. Stabilizing the ankle or controlling hindfoot motion involve different components of the orthotic plan that address ankle or hindfoot stability rather than directly reducing forefoot pressure. Providing arch support can aid overall foot mechanics, but it doesn’t specifically accomplish unloading of the second metatarsal head—the core purpose is pressure relief at that location.