HOME/ ORTHOTICS/ EFFECT OF ORTHOTIC INSOLES ON OVERPRONATION AND FOOT PAIN
Are you battling foot pain that doesn't seem to go away? Do your feet feel tired after a day's work? If you answered 'yes' to either of these questions, then you might benefit from orthotic insoles.
Orthotic insoles have emerged as a tool for individuals struggling with foot pain due to pronation. But before we dive into how orthotics can help us, it is important to understand the natural mechanics of the foot. When we walk and run, our feet pronate. Pronation is the natural inwards rolling of the foot that occurs during walking or running. As the foot touches the ground, our arches flatten slightly as our weight transfers to the forefoot for push-off. This slight flattening helps in absorbing the impact of the body's weight as the foot hits the ground.
When your feet roll in too much
For some, the arches flatten entirely. This is called over pronation, and the foot rolls inwards too much. When this occurs, many structures of the foot and leg undergo an increased amount of stress. The muscles and ligaments are working harder to keep your foot in a neutral position. Over time, individuals can experience discomfort and pain in the knees, hips, and feet, as well as develop conditions such as plantar fasciitis and shin splints.
What do orthotic insoles do for feet that roll inwards?
To alleviate foot pain and prevent overuse injuries, the feet require support, especially at the arches. One way to provide the support your feet need is by using orthotic insoles.
To illustrate just how effective insoles can be, we captured a video of one of our patients walking with and without an orthotic. In the first clip, we can see that the individual's feet are rolling toward the midline a little too far (displaying overpronation). With each step, the arches are collapsing and the foot and ankle are not aligned properly. In cases such as these, there is a clear potential for orthotics to work their magic.
Next, we asked the patient to wear a pair of Ergonx Elements Work Boots that features the Ergonx Ultra Soft orthotic insole. Even after a short time, it can be seen that the foot is better aligned and more stable when walking. The arches are supported and the foot's natural structure is maintained. This means less strain on the joints, ligaments, and muscles, and a whole lot less foot pain.
Investing in the right support is worth it
We truly believe that taking care of your feet is crucial to taking care of your entire body. Our feet serve as the foundation of our mobility and endure a lot of pressure each day. By giving our feet the attention they deserve, we can stay active and continue to pursue the things we enjoy. If you're uncertain about where to start, seek guidance from a health professional, such as a podiatrist, who can provide valuable insights. They can assess your feet and gait and pave the way for proactive care. This time and effort is a small investment that has big returns in comfort, well-being, and overall health.
Comment below with questions about supportive insoles, arch support, and orthotic insoles. You can also reach out to us at ergonx.com.au to learn more about flat feet, custom orthotics, and excessive pronation.