3 Biomechanical Benefits
Tucked discreetly beneath the ball of the foot and rising up just a few millimeters above the cushioned footbed, the tear-drop shaped meta pad in pushpül’s Flex 3 Fitness Slides may look subtle, but don’t let its smooth, attractive shape fool you.
Strategically contoured at the midfoot, this dynamic rubber pad delivers a trifecta of biomechanical benefits: promoting toe splay, relieving pressure on sensitive nerves, and boosting blood flow where your feet need it most.
How does it work? As you step, the meta pad gently lifts and spreads the metatarsal heads — those are the long bones just behind your toes — encouraging a gentle, natural toe separation. This widening effect helps release nerve entrapments like Morton’s neuroma and decompress a tight plantar fascia and its surrounding connective tissues, which can become easily irritated by narrow shoes or prolonged standing.
The result? Reduced discomfort along with a newfound lightness in every step.
Improved Gait Pattern
From a circulation standpoint, the raised pad activates the foot’s pump mechanism, subtly increasing venous return and oxygenated blood flow across the forefoot. For those with neuropathy, cold toes, or tingling, this simple pad can provide powerful relief thanks to improved circulation. It also encourages proper toe-off mechanics while walking, improving your overall gait pattern.
As a physical therapist, I often see foot pain that starts at the forefoot but radiates through the entire foot. This ergonomically designed massage element helps correct those foundational issues at the source, empowering healthy mechanics and relieving pressure with every stride.
Special Guest blog by:
Nicholas Rutigliano, Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Greenwich Hospital
IG: @nicholas_rutigliano_DPT
