Understanding orthotic shoe inserts

Orthotic shoe insert is an additional fitting foot care device that is inserted into the shoe to provide cushioning and correct foot functions. The use of an orthotic shoe insert is recommended in several foot conditions, as treatment of problems like difference in the length of the leg, flat foot, plantar fascitis and certain cases of knee and back problems.

Sportspersons with foot injuries often have these corrected with the use of these inserts. In fact, the shoe inserts are the preferred option rather than go in for surgical procedures or lengthy treatments that could actually prevent a sportsperson from carrying on his/her activity for a much longer duration. While considered a conservative line of treatment, the orthotic shoe inserts provide much needed support and comfort to the foot, reducing the impact on the foot while walking and running.

Prefabricated orthotic shoe inserts & custom orthotic shoe inserts

There are two types of orthotic shoe inserts-the prefabricated and the functional. Prefabricated orthotic inserts are available at most sports shops and even at regular medical stores. These are designed to fit into the shoe and control the movements of the foot. Not only that, they provide support to the foot arches, which helps in providing relief from arch pain. Typically, the off-the-shelf orthotic she inserts last for about 1-2 years.

The Walkfit orthotic shoe inserts from Phase 4 Orthotics is an excellent example of inexpensive but extremely effective prefabricated shoe inserts that have alleviated foot pain and other foot problems of over 1.4 million people! You can order one now here!

The functional orthotic shoe inserts are custom made and cater to an individual’s specific requirements. They are more rigid than the prefabricated ones as per specifications by a qualified foot doctor after careful evaluation of the problem and the condition of the person’s foot. Functional orthotics come in handy in various cases of flat foot, hip and back problems and tendonitis. They last for about 8-10 years.

It must be remembered though that there is a key difference in regular shoe inserts and the orthotic ones. While the former serves to provide a mere cushioning effect and comfort to the feet as a result, the orthotic shoe inserts are mainly designed to control the movement of the foot and act as a remedy for foot ailments.

For more technical information on orthotic devices, please refer to some extremely useful links in our resources section that will lead you to the websites of relevant professional bodies, foot care centers and research labs. You can also keep yourself updated on various aspects of foot care with regular news and articles here.