Insoles, Arch Supports And Orthotics

Have you been told you need insoles, arch supports or orthotics?  Were you told exactly what they are, and where should you get them?

These are terms referred to devices that are placed inside the shoes to provide support for the arches.   These terms can be confusing and are thought to be interchangeable.  However, they are not. 

They each work differently. 

First of all, if you have almost any kind of foot pain, a device of some kind is usually beneficial.  That is not to say that it will be a panacea for relief of all foot pain. 

That is simply not true, however in my opinion, based on the results of my patients, there is about an 80% chance that using a device will help reduce your symptoms.

If you have done even a simple search for foot devices, you are probably very confused by now. 

As you can see, there are a multitude of choices, all claiming to be the “end all - be all”  in providing foot pain relief.  There are many web sites claiming to sell the “best” arch support.  There is nothing wrong with buying an arch support online. 

But, it’s best to make an informed decision before you do so. If you are still confused, my recommendation is to get advice from your podiatrist. 

Here is what you need to know.

FOOT FACTS:  There are 26 bones in your foot.  These bones, along with muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints have to balance the weight of your entire body.  When the bones are misaligned, your entire skeletal structure becomes misaligned .  

Your foot will be unable to absorb the normal stress and shock from weight bearing, and symptoms begin to develop.  First, your foot may feel fatigued, or tired.  You may develop heel pain, arch pain, or pain in the ball of your foot. 

Then the rest of your body may begin to hurt, such as, your ankles, knees, hips, and back.  This is because your body is trying to compensate for the imbalance and poor function of your feet.  

So, why do our feet become imbalanced and start to function poorly in the first place? 

There are many reasons.  However, for the purposes of keeping things simple, most of the time it can be summed up as over pronation of the feet.  Pronation simply means that the foot arch lowers, by rolling in at the ankles. 

There is a normal amount of pronation which has to occur during walking, however, the problems develop when there is an abnormal, or an excessive amount of pronation.  As the foot begins to function this way, over time, usually in our third of fourth decade, foot pain starts to occur.

So, do you need a foot device, and if so, which one do you need?

INSOLES:  These are designed for mild foot discomfort.  Someone who has occasional foot soreness, may want to try these.  They can be found readily at the drug store.  Dr. Scholl’s gel inserts are pretty common.

They typically last for one to two months, and need to be replaced frequently.  You can usually get them for under $20 to $25.  The main purpose for these products are to provide cushion and shock absorption for the foot.  They are very flimsy, and have no arch support. 

These are made from foam or gel padding and will break down over time.  If these provide very little relief, then you need to advance to something more sturdy.  By the time I usually see patients for foot pain, these products typically won’t do.

ARCH SUPPORTS:  A good pair of arch supports can provide foot pain relief often as affectively as an expensive custom made orthotic device.  These provide more of an arch support, which will help to reduce the amount of excessive pronation, plus provide some cushion and shock absorption. 

Arch supports attempt to hold and support your feet in a more ideal position. These are made from more durable, lasting materials.  However, these will also need to be replaced periodically. 

There are a variety of products to choose from, and I will recommend a few that I use in my office.  Prices can vary from $25 to $45.

ORTHOTICS:  These are custom made devices that are made from a mold or impression of your feet.  You can order these on line from various web sites. 

However, I would caution you to do so.  The reason why, is that a custom made orthotic is only as good as the impression made of you foot.

The foot has to be captured in a specific position, called the neutral position, in order for the device to work optimally.  This typically requires some technical expertise.  You will be able to purchase these cheaper online, but it is risky. 

I would advise you to spend a little more money, and have your feet molded by a podiatrist, who has the expertise in this.  In addition, an orthotic can be modified many different ways to accommodate your specific needs.   This is where the expertise also comes in. 

Orthotics should last many years, since they are made typically from a polypropylene shell.  This is very durable, and various top covers are often added to provide more comfort.  The purpose of these devices is to provide comfort and support. 

The semi-rigid shell is made from your specific foot structure, and prevents the muscles, ligaments and plantar fascia from over stretching throughout the day, and causing pain and fatigue. They hold and stabilize your feet in their ideal position and spreads your weight evenly and properly throughout your feet. 

They help improve balance and keep your feet from pronating, or rolling inward when you walk.  I typically will recommend these to my patients who have frequent or constant foot pain. 

Also, people who have back pain, leg pain, athletes, or people who have jobs that require long hours of standing or walking, may benefit from orthotics.   Prices can vary from $200 to $400.

My PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS:  Here are a few over the counter type of products that I recommend to my patients, who need a little extra foot support, and their foot condition is not severe enough to put them into custom made orthotics, just yet. 

Or maybe, for expense reasons, they prefer to start out with a less expensive device.  Keep in mind that there are many other over the counter type products available that can be just as affective than the ones that I am recommending. 

However, it has been my experience, that my patients have been very satisfied with these products.

1.  Spenco Polysorb Cross Trainer  Premium Insoles - #10100.  These are good for someone who just needs  A little extra cushion and has mild foot aches.

2.  Orthofeet Bio Sole-Gel Self Forming Orthotic Sport - #10203.  This is good for the casual walker  and moderate activities.  Foot pain is Moderate and is usually in the heel or arch. 

3.  Superfeet Synergzer Products - #10400 to #10411.   This line carries arch supports for the moderate Athlete to the more active person.  Good for heel pain, arch pain, and there are some for ball of

the foot pain.  They also carry some for men or woman’s dress shoes, and high heels.  These will be less bulky and have a lower profile to fit the streamline shoes better.

If you live in South Florida, and you would like a consultation with me, please call my office at:

In or near Boynton Beach, call 561-734-4867

In or near Wellington, call 561-433-5577.