HOME / FOOT HEALTH BLOG / SOFT INSOLES FOR FLAT FEET
Flat feet (overpronation) can cause discomfort and other foot-related issues. Other symptoms include fatigue, heel pain, and even lower back pain. Orthotics are often employed to help reduce flat feet-related pain, but finding the right orthotic can be challenging.
In this article, we explore the benefits of using soft orthotic shoe insoles for flat feet and why it is a preferred choice for many individuals. By understanding the advantages of soft orthotics, we can gain insights into their effectiveness in providing comfort, support, and reducing pressure.
Pros of Soft Orthotics
Comfort and Tolerance
Soft orthotics often offer superior comfort compared to their harder counterparts. Their soft makeup makes for a more pleasant experience when walking or standing. Individuals with flat feet also report soft orthotic insoles as being easier to adjust to. Users can gradually increase their wear over a few days and, within a week, they can comfortably engage in routine activities free of foot pain.
Arch Support and Heel Cushioning
Soft orthotics excel in providing arch support and cushioning for the heel, an area of the foot that is prone to injury and strain. For flat feet, medial arch support is great for maintaining the structure of the foot's arch. Additionally, a deep heel cup helps preserve the foot's natural fatty pad beneath the heel, enhancing natural cushioning. Furthermore, soft insoles support the lateral arch, ensuring comprehensive support for the entire foot.
People with flat feet are at an increased risk of other conditions, including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and shin splints. Supporting the arches assists in maintaining the structural integrity and stability of the feet.
Shock absorption and impact resistance
One of the most often overlooked advantages of soft orthotics is their ability to cushion the foot during ground contact. When the foot strikes the ground, it can experience forces up to four times one's body weight. Soft insoles help distribute these forces over a longer area, reducing the peak force placed on the foot. In doing so, the insole alleviates strain on the foot, knees, hips, and back, allowing the muscles, joints, and tendons to work more efficiently.
Superior shoe fit
Full-length soft orthotics often provide a better fit inside shoes compared to three-quarter length orthotics. They can be trimmed to fit and adjusted to limit slipping and sliding within the shoe. By securing the orthotic within the shoe, individuals can enjoy consistent support and comfort throughout the day without experiencing fatigue.
Orthotics and the right pair of shoes also go hand in hand when it comes to promoting foot health and comfort. Shoes that fit well and offer the right amount of support complement the corrective features of an insole and help to control excessive foot motion.
Soft orthotics offer numerous benefits for individuals with flat feet. They enhance comfort, reduce impact, slow pronation, and facilitate proper foot mechanics. For these reasons, they are often the preferred choice for many podiatrists and patients. By choosing a soft orthotic, individuals can prevent discomfort, optimize foot function, and enhance overall well-being.
Choosing a soft orthotic
When it comes to finding an orthotic that will suit your specific condition and feet, it is best to consult in a healthcare professional, such as a podiatrist, who can conduct a thorough assessment of your individual foot needs. Podiatrists are medical professionals who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions that affect the feet, ankles, and lower limbs. By evaluating a patient's medical history, gait, and activity level, they can determine the type and specifications of orthotics that would be most beneficial for the patient.
Please comment below with any questions you have about soft orthotic insoles, flat feet, or other foot problems! You can also reach our team at ergonx.com/au!