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Orthotic Insoles

How to choose the best Orthotic Insoles for yours or your patients needs. Product guide unwraps why Orthotic Insoles can be useful and advises on selecting the best solution for your needs.

Algeos offers an extensive range of Orthotics designed to provide optimal support, comfort, and relief for a variety of foot conditions. Our range includes, arch support insoles, diabetic insoles, semi-bespoke, cushioning insoles foot insoles for plantar fasciitis. We also offer the UK's leading medical insoles brands: Slimflex, Interpod, Podotech and Diaped.

Orthotic Insoles

Orthotic Insoles

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Learning About Orthotics

Orthotic Insoles explained and why you might need them

"Orthotics are not a magic bullet; they are a tool that can help to optimize an individual's biomechanics, depending on their specific needs and conditions." Dr. Benno M. Nigg - Biomechanics of Sports Shoes 2010

What are Orthotic Insoles?

Orthotic insoles (or Foot Orthotics) are special inserts for shoes. They help support the arch of the foot. They also help with foot alignment and make walking more comfortable. They can prevent or treat problems like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and overpronation (when feet roll outwards).

Foot care specialists such as Podiatrists can make orthotic insoles to fit a person's foot shape and needs. They are also available in pre-made versions for common foot problems. By redistributing pressure and providing cushioning, they enhance overall foot function and improve comfort during daily activities.

Who needs Foot Orthotics?

Foot Orthotics can help many people. The insoles are especially useful for those with foot, leg, or lower back pain. Poor foot alignment or movement issues often cause this pain. People with flat feet, high arches, plantar fasciitis, bunions, or overpronation can often feel better with orthotic insoles.

Additionally, athletes and active individuals can benefit significantly from orthotic insoles. They provide the necessary support during high-impact activities, reducing the risk of injury and enhancing performance. People who stand for long hours, like nurses, teachers, or retail workers can benefit by using these insoles.

Not everyone needs orthotic insoles, which is important to note. Some individuals may have naturally well-aligned feet and do not experience any pain or discomfort. However, if you frequently experience foot pain or discomfort, it may be worth consulting a foot care specialist. They can check your foot shape and walking style to see if orthotic insoles are right for you.

How do I choose the correct insoles for me?

Consider factors such as your specific foot condition (see below), activity level, and personal comfort preferences. Custom-made insoles, while often more expensive, can provide tailored support that addresses your unique needs. On the other hand, pre-made options can be a more affordable and convenient choice for those with common foot issues.

These insoles can be a valuable tool for improving foot health and overall well-being. By offering the right support and cushioning, they can reduce pain, improve comfort, and help foot function for many people.

View Algeos full range below, or view by Algeos defined insole categories:

Slimflex Orthotic Insoles Interpod Orthotics Arthritic Diabetic Insoles
Podotech Foot Orthotics Paediatric Kids Insoles Semi-Bespoke Orthotics
Comfort Insoles Heel Lifts Plantar Fasciitis Insoles

What foot problems can these insoles help with?

Insoles can help with a variety of foot problems, including:

  1. Foot Insoles for Plantar Fasciitis: Reducing strain on the plantar fascia to alleviate heel pain.
  2. Flat Feet: Providing arch support to improve foot alignment and prevent discomfort.
  3. Foot Stability: Correcting excessive inward foot rolling, reducing stress on the ankles and knees.
  4. Bunions: Offering cushioning and support to relieve pressure on an enlarged big toe joint.
  5. High Arches: Distributing weight more evenly to provide pain relief and pressure points.
  6. Heel Spurs: Cushioning the heel to reduce pain caused by bony growths.

Foot Types

The 3 Foot Types - what are you?


How do I know if I have flat feet?

You can determine if you have flat feet through a few simple methods:

  1. Wet Foot Test: Wet your foot and step onto a piece of paper. If you see a complete footprint with little or no curve on the inside, you may have flat feet.
  2. Arch Observation: Stand on tiptoes or examine your foot's arch while standing. If your arch flattens or disappears entirely, this could indicate flat feet.
  3. Symptoms: Common signs include foot pain, especially in the arch or heel, and shoes wearing out unevenly.

If you're unsure, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. Below is list of foot problem symptoms and the potential causes that they may diagnose:

Symptom Possible Condition Cure/Prevention
Pain in the heel Plantar Fasciitis Use insoles, stretching exercises, ice therapy, supportive shoes
Pain in the ball of the foot Metatarsalgia Wear cushioned insoles, rest, avoid high heels, use metatarsal pads
Arch pain Flat Feet, High Arches Supportive orthotics, strengthening exercises, proper footwear
Pain on the outer edge of the foot Overpronation, Supination Orthotic inserts, shoes with good arch support, physical therapy
Big toe joint pain Bunions Wear wide-toe box shoes, use bunion pads, consider orthotics, surgery for severe cases
Tingling or numbness Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medication, orthotics, possible surgery
Pain in the toes Morton’s Neuroma Use metatarsal pads, wear wide shoes, corticosteroid injections, possible surgery

*This table presents foot pain symptoms, the possible conditions associated with them, and suggested cures or preventive measures.


How do high arches effect your feet?

High arches, or cavus feet, can cause problems because your body weight is not spread evenly across your feet. This can cause:

  1. Increased Pressure: High arches concentrate pressure on the heel and ball of the foot, leading to pain, calluses, and discomfort.
  2. Posture and Balance: The lack of contact with the ground can reduce stability, making you more prone to ankle sprains.
  3. Foot Pain: You might feel pain in the arch, heel, or ball of your foot. This often happens after standing or being active for a long time.

You can often manage these effects with supportive shoes or special insoles. These help spread pressure evenly on your foot.

Summary

Orthotic inserts or insoles, also known professionally as Foot Orthotics are a practical solution for many people dealing with foot pain or discomfort. These specialised inserts are designed to fit inside your shoes, providing extra support where your feet need it most. For those with flat feet, orthotics can offer the arch support that’s lacking, helping to improve overall foot alignment and reduce the strain that flat feet can place on the rest of your body. This can be especially helpful in preventing or easing pain in the knees, hips, and lower back.

If you have high arches, these insoles can help by distributing your weight more evenly across your feet. High arches can cause too much pressure on the ball and heel of your foot, leading to pain and discomfort. With the right insoles, you can relieve some of that pressure and make walking or standing for long periods more comfortable.

Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain, is another condition that insoles can help manage. By providing the right amount of support and cushioning, these insoles can reduce the strain on the plantar fascia, which runs along the bottom of your foot, and help speed up recovery.

Orthotic inserts are also useful for preventing and managing other foot issues like bunions, overpronation (where your foot rolls inward too much), and Morton’s neuroma (a painful condition affecting the ball of the foot). Beyond specific medical conditions, these insoles are a great way to enhance overall comfort, especially for athletes, people who stand for long periods, or anyone looking for extra support in their daily footwear.

In short, orthotic insoles can make a significant difference in how your feet feel, helping to alleviate pain, prevent injuries, and improve your overall foot health.

Futher Reading

Heel Pain and How to Treat it 

Preventing Foot Supination: A Guide

How to choose the correct Orthotic Insoles

Slimflex Orthotic Insoles Range Explained (2024)

Orthotic Insoles: A Guide to Relieving Sore Feet

Insoles Guide

Accessing Foot Orthotics from the NHS