When it comes to the best insoles, something is better than nothing, but is it worth it in the long run? There are many over-the-counter insoles available, but they just can’t measure up to custom orthotics. There are many reasons why over-the-counter insoles may not be the best option for those with foot pain and problems.
What are Insoles?
When shoes are made, they put a sole into the bottom of the shoe which protects the inside from wear and adds some support. Most soles that come from the factory are not very supportive and are essentially just cloth. These soles do not provide the support needed for everyday use and wear.
Over-the-counter Insoles
Insoles that can be purchased at drug stores are generally created as one-size-fits-all. There are some that you can cut to fit or there are some that market to certain foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis. These insoles are not custom-made, and while they are usually inexpensive, this can be more harmful than good.
Benefits of Over-the-counter Insoles
While over-the-counter insoles are not ideal, they do offer more support than the factory soles that come in most shoes. They are inexpensive and there are many options. They can improve your posture, prevent blisters, and more. They can also prevent injury in the workplace. These insoles have appeal especially because they provide instant relief, as they cushion the feet. When people purchase insoles vs. custom orthotics, it does make a difference as the custom orthotics take longer to seem comfortable and are not as comfortable right away.
Disadvantages of Over-the-counter Insoles
Unfortunately, there are many disadvantages to cheaper insoles. There are risks involved with over-the-counter insoles mostly for individuals with any foot or ankle-related health concerns. Arch support insoles may not actually support the right part of the injured foot, causing further problems. Each person’s feet are unique, which means that their stride, gait, arch, and pressure points are going to be different as well. A one-size-fits-all insole will not be able to protect and manage problems that are so individual. It may also lead to further injury over time. Also, inexpensive insoles are usually made of inexpensive materials, which means that they wear down quickly. This can lead to discomfort and other issues. Some insoles can even cause numbness in the feet, which many people mistake for comfort.
Custom Orthotics
The best insoles available for purchase are custom orthotics. These are created like a prescription for your feet, and are molded specifically to manage and help pain and other issues. They might be more expensive, but they can sometimes be covered by health insurance. The best shoe insoles will protect the feet by providing support, so they are not always extremely comfortable, especially at first. Over time, custom orthotics will relieve pain and other problems through that support. They are usually designed to be worn inside any pair of shoes, so you only need to purchase one pair every few years or so.
How Do Custom Orthotics Work?
The process of getting custom orthotics is simple. If you are feeling any pain while walking, speak with your podiatrist as soon as you can. Problems with the feet tend to worsen over time, especially if nothing is done to correct them. Your doctor will evaluate and determine the cause of the pain, and will prescribe a treatment plan. Most of the time, this will also include a recommendation for custom orthotics. Arch support insoles are generally prescribed to help with flat feet or high arches, which are both very common issues. Other painful conditions that orthotics can help include plantar fasciitis, ankle pain, big toe pain, bunions, or problems with the ball of the foot. The best insoles don’t just help existing conditions, but also help prevent any further injury or pain.
Process
At Foot and Ankle Specialists of Illinois, we start by scanning the foot with a 3-D scan that maps the entire sole of the foot. Then, the doctor will help adjust and design the orthotic to support the patient’s needs. These will then be ordered out and come in the mail in a few weeks. It is essential to have an expert podiatrist adjust the custom orthotics, as it makes an enormous difference in the health and wellness of the patient.
Over-the-counter Vs. Custom Insoles
The best insoles do not just cushion the feet or make your shoes feel more comfortable. In fact, insoles designed solely for comfort can lead to discomfort very quickly. It is important to support the foot and ensure that any injuries or other adjustments are made. When it comes to choosing an insole, you should always consult an expert podiatrist before making a decision. If you do not need custom orthotics, your doctor will let you know. There are some brands or kinds of doctor-recommended insoles available over the counter that may be ideal for a person without foot pain. So when you are deciding what to do and which insoles are the best shoe insoles for you, talk to your doctor first!
Shoes
Another aspect of foot care is actually choosing the right shoes for your activities as well. Custom insoles will help, but wearing shoes that are too small or don’t protect your feet can injure them as well. Talk to your doctor about your footwear and what may be causing issues, as they can shed some light on the subject for you.
Foot Care
If you are experiencing any foot pain, it is important to make an appointment and make sure it isn’t serious. It could get worse with time and affect your everyday life. Your feet take you everywhere, so making sure that they are in good condition will help you do the things you want to do. If you have a very active job or if you do a lot of walking or running, it is very important to care for your feet. Take care of your body, and it will take you far!
