I put 1/2 patch on the instep of the foot because that is where the nerves are that feed the foot. I have sesamoiditis in both feet in the balls of the feet and where I place my patch results in total numbing and relief. I have also put a 1/2 patch around the ankle just above the inner ankle bone...this is where the major nerve enters the foot.

http://www.northcoastfootcare.com/pa...e-Anatomy.html
more detail at this link:
http://www.northcoastfootcare.com/pa...-the-Foot.html


The skin on the bottom of the foot is very thick, and penetration of the lidocaine in the patches will not be good there.

When used on the top of the foot, coverage is so good, you may find walking difficult as the numbness can be bothersome.
Hence when I need the patches on the foot, I put them on at night and remove in the daytime. The skin on the top of the foot is very thin, and the nerves very close to the surface. You can tap your foot with a hard object and get zings in those nerves,
which is calls Tinel's sign. Alot of positive Tinel's suggests entrapment issues.

Check the website I gave you more thoroughly if you want.
Metatarsalgia
http://www.northcoastfootcare.com/pa...Foot-Pain.html

This sublink shows the various mechanical causes of foot pain in the area you seem to have.