Learn more about shoe insoles (also known as foot orthotics) and how they can benefit you if you are experiencing foot pain.
Foot orthoses, or insoles, are devices that contour the soles of your feet and are worn inside your shoes. They are commonly used to aid injury rehabilitation by improving foot function and reducing foot aches and strains. For them to be effective, they have to be well-prescribed with a clear goal in mind, be adequately stiff, and contour your foot closely, especially in the arch and heel regions.
In doing so, insoles are able to support your foot and ankle, thereby reducing the stress you place on your feet when you move, allowing your injury to rehabilitate. Below, we share some scenarios that may require you to get a prescribed pair of insoles.
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You have an injury and pain in the region of your foot, ankle and lower leg
Insoles aid injury rehabilitation especially when they occur in the foot, ankle, lower leg, and even in the knee regions. As mentioned above, insoles will help provide arch support to reduce pressure on your foot, improve body alignment, and maximise shock absorption on your heel.
It is essential that you see a podiatrist or medical professional to get your injuries assessed first before using insoles for management. Your podiatrist will examine your foot and recommend the best type of orthotics as well as how to use them. If you have no injuries and do not feel any pain, you don't need to use insoles.
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You have high pressure points on soles of your feet which cause issues
High pressure points can lead to calluses and corns, which can cause a lot of discomfort. By closely contouring to the soles of your feet, insoles can reduce these high pressure points and minimise the occurrence of these issues. Seek your podiatrist's advice on how best these insoles should be made and fitted.
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You need to improve your foot and ankle function and movement
As insoles apply forces on the bottom of your foot at different angles, they can provide support and enhance movement across the joints of your foot, ankle and lower limb. This means they will be able to correct any biomechanical foot issues such as being unstable on your feet and problems with the way you walk or run.
They would also be able to provide additional stability to reduce the risk of ankle sprains and falls. When used along with rehabilitative exercises, you'd be able to see the best results in improved function.
- Article contributed by Podiatry, Rehabilitation, Allied Health Services -
