Orthopedic insoles for flat feet. How to choose orthopedic insoles for transverse and longitudinal flat feet - expert advice. Custom orthopedic insoles
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Orthopedic insoles (orthoses) are special insoles whose function is reducing the load on the leg, prevention or correction of existing flat feet.
Every day a person walks many thousands of steps, and this significantly affects the shape of the feet - they become deformed, and the arch of the foot gradually becomes flat. This pathology can also develop due to improper selection of shoes, excess weight, or prolonged stress on the legs. Deformation leads to various unpleasant sensations - burning and pain in the legs, cramps, etc.
In order to eliminate these sensations and correct the shape of the foot, they were invented orthopedic orthoses. Experts say that wearing arch supports not only eliminates flat feet, but also helps reduce leg fatigue, improve blood circulation, and reduce the load on the legs (not only on the foot, but also on the ankle, knees, and hips). These devices also allow a person to spend more time on their feet and walking.
Indications and contraindications
The main indication for wearing orthopedic orthoses is flat feet. Most often they are prescribed for flat feet of the 1st degree, the mildest, in order to prevent the pathology from developing and to form a correct arch at the initial stage.
Shoe devices can also be prescribed to people with the following indications:
- Arthrosis or arthritis.
- Rheumatoid arthritis.
- Heel spur.
- Pregnancy (women who are expecting a baby gain weight and put a lot of stress on their back and legs).
- Work that requires standing for long periods of time.
- Sports activities.
- Clubfoot.
- Childhood.
There are no contraindications to wearing arch supports. Today, there are many types that are suitable even for people with diabetes. Anyone with foot pathology can choose a product to suit their foot.
Varieties
There are 2 main types of foot correctors: sports And medicinal. The sports one is intended to prevent flat feet and various injuries, and the therapeutic one is prescribed for an existing disease in order to eliminate deformation.
Also, insoles are made from different materials; they can be silicone (used for preventive purposes), gel (to eliminate swelling and pain) and frame, which have a rigid base to support the leg.
Therapeutic orthopedic instep supports have the following markings:
- VP1— orthosis with a heel indentation. Suitable for pregnant women, athletes, people with varicose veins and in the initial stages of flat feet.
- VP2– used for heel spurs and deformation of the longitudinal arch.
- VP3– consists of a pronator, a lining and a tab on the heel area.
- VP4– the design is the same as the previous model, but has a special device for fixing the finger in one position. Used for thumb valgus.
- VP5– used for hallux valgus.
- VP6– an orthosis with pads and inlays under the arch of the foot and heel. This model prevents chafing and the formation of calluses.
- VP7– suitable for women who often wear high-heeled shoes, as well as people with club feet.
- VP8– an insole that has a special wing to hold the big toe in one position.
- VP9– under the heel there is a recess and a special shock absorber. This model is used for grade 3 and 4 flat feet.
- VP10– a model that prevents the formation of calluses, corns and other formations.
How to choose the right one
When choosing a device for shoes, it is best to consult a doctor - an orthopedist, who will advise the right type of corrector, based on the disease, degree of flat feet, professional activity, etc. And an even better solution would be to visit a special orthopedic store and choose the type of corrector on the spot together with a doctor who works right in the store and sees patients.
When choosing a specific model, it is better to first test it in action - it should be comfortable to wear and not cause any unpleasant sensations.
Today, insoles can be made to order - the patient makes a cast of his feet, on the basis of which a corrector is made. This method allows you to accurately select the most comfortable and effective type of orthosis.
Proper use and care
Shoes in which corrective devices are placed must be one size larger and have their own, necessarily removable insoles, in place of which the corrective ones are installed. If the sizes of the shoes and the foot corrector match, then there will be no room left for the foot, and it will be constantly compressed and rubbed, which will entail a reverse healing process.
In order for the insoles to last longer, they must be properly cared for:
- Every day, take them out of your shoes and dry them (avoid exposure to sunlight and heating devices).
- If the surface becomes dirty, you need to wipe it with a cloth soaked in alcohol.
- After cleaning with alcohol, be sure to dry the orthosis.
Models and prices
- "Trives". Made from genuine leather. They have a semi-rigid surface and are used for various types of flat feet. The price ranges from 600 to 1000 rubles per pair.
- "Talus". The insoles of this company are varied. Their price ranges from 600 to 1800 rubles per pair, depending on the type.
- "Ortho". This manufacturer produces many types of orthopedic correctors: sports, soft, hard. For diabetics, for summer shoes and for winter shoes with insulation. Price from 500 to 3000 rubles.
- "Teacher". A German company offering all kinds of correctors and prevention of flat feet. Price from 600 to 3000 rubles.
- "Ortmann". The most expensive model, characterized by high quality and effectiveness of treatment. Price from 700 to 3500 rubles.
Transverse flatfoot is a fairly common foot disorder, characterized by divergence and flattening of the bones in the toes, and deformation of the big toe. Since such a pathological condition can affect any person, including children or women who are accustomed to walking in high heels, the question of how to choose orthopedic insoles for transverse flatfoot is very relevant.
To begin with, we note that the disease in question can have three degrees of severity. In the first degree, a slight deviation of the thumb to the side is observed, and the initial stage of the formation of a lump on the bone is noted. The second degree is already characterized by a large angle of curvature of the thumb - it is 35 degrees.
Due to this deformation there is rapid fatigue of the legs when walking, pain, and corns often appear. The most severe third degree is accompanied by significant deformation of all fingers, while the foot itself looks widened and flattened. Often this form of the disease is combined with longitudinal flatfoot.
Properly selected orthopedic insoles for longitudinal-transverse flat feet will provide optimal shock absorption of the foot when walking, will help correct developed disorders, as well as prevent the disease. For preventive purposes, you can purchase or make your own such shoe inserts on the recommendation of an orthopedist from a very early age., as they will ensure the healthy formation of the arches of the child’s feet.
For adult men and women who already have pronounced signs of pathology, modern manufacturers are also ready to offer a large selection of orthopedic devices for any type of shoe.
Types of orthopedic insoles for transverse flatfoot
Orthopedic insoles for transverse flat feet may differ in several ways. So, according to the purpose of use, they can be classified as follows:
- preventive, made of soft materials and adapting to the individual parameters of the foot;
- corrective – provide assistance in the treatment of an already diagnosed disease.
As for manufacturing materials, most manufacturers offer products mainly based on natural materials, for example, leather, suede, velor. You can also find insoles made of synthetic material - silicone. High-quality products should fit the foot tightly, help improve blood circulation and gradually correct deformities.
Orthopedic insoles can also differ in the degree of softness. Solid frame products are thinner. Their wearing is indicated for people experiencing constant stress on their legs. Soft insoles are recommended for women during pregnancy, overweight people, and during physical exercise.
How to choose the right orthopedic insoles
As already noted, choosing one or another orthopedic insoles for transverse flat feet is necessary only after consultation with a doctor, since incorrectly selected accessories may not only not help, but also aggravate the problem. If you purchase finished products, be sure to pay attention to a number of nuances:
- Products must fit exactly your size;
- insoles are purchased for specific shoes, so make sure that they fit tightly into it, do not deform or dangle inside;
- high-quality insoles must have at least three layers.
Each person’s feet are unique, and pharmacies and orthopedic salons sell insoles made according to average parameters. Products that are exactly right for you are best ordered individually in specialized showrooms or factories.
Individual production of orthopedic insoles for transverse flatfoot
Custom orthopedic insoles are made from an impression of your foot after a transverse arch disorder has been diagnosed by an orthopedic surgeon. Products are modeled according to the parameters of each specific patient. The most advanced method today is computer modeling., with the use of which the production of individual orthopedic insoles takes only twenty minutes.
Experts say that with transverse flatfoot It is best to make shoe inserts from genuine leather. This material perfectly adapts to the individual parameters of the foot and takes its shape. The pads in such products are usually made of foamed polyethylene, a material characterized by durability and strength.
It is worth understanding that the treatment of transverse flatfoot is a long and difficult process, because such a disorder is not so easy to correct. Ideally, it is necessary to start preventing it from childhood, since the formation of the arches of a child’s feet occurs before the age of 8-10 years. Until this age, the development of almost any disorder can be prevented.
Our legs experience overloads, and constant ones. And this will definitely affect your health in the future and provoke.
What is transverse flatfoot?
is a serious foot disease that leads to deformation of the arch. The anterior section is flattened. The leg will not be able to rest on the first and fifth heads; this is its ideal position. And for all five metatarsal bones.
This causes the fingers to become deformed over time, especially the thumb. For ease of definition, it was divided into 3 types. It is determined by the degree of deviation of the thumb from the norm.
First degree
The thumb has a deflection angle of no more than 15º. The bones of the foot begin to move apart little by little. When moving, the shoes rub the skin and seals appear. With a significant load, the legs get tired. The bone begins to hurt and bulge a little to the side.
Second degree
The corns grow quickly, the arch in the area of the fingers is still almost invisible. But the thumb already has a large degree of curvature, up to 30º. Shoes become narrow in width, fit with great difficulty, and the foot is compressed.
The bone is already sticking out of the shoe. The pain intensifies, now even with light exertion.
Third degree
The big toe already has a serious inward bend of 30º or more. The foot is completely flattened, the toes become hook-shaped. Walking is excruciatingly difficult, the pain does not go away, even at rest.
Only in 3% of cases this disease is genetic, and in 97% it is acquired:
- excess weight;
- improper metabolism;
- wearing inappropriate shoes;
- irrational lifestyle, etc.;
What treatment do doctors prescribe for transverse flatfoot?
Full recovery is impossible. Treatment can only stop the progression of the disease and create all the conditions for correction. The main thing is to make a timely and correct diagnosis.
In the early stages, conservative therapy is used. This is pain relief, improvement of the muscular system and ligaments - this way you can stop the development of the disease. To relieve pain, medications and physical therapy are used.
The main emphasis should be on therapeutic exercises. Exercises are selected individually. The doctor takes into account the degree of the disease and its form. Hydromassage and even a regular foot massage will bring a good therapeutic effect. This useful procedure will normalize blood circulation and increase muscle tone of the feet and legs.
You can make foot baths by adding sea salt and herbs to it. An excellent effect, especially at the initial stage, will be provided by the use of orthopedic insoles.
But this is all relevant in the first degree, when already the second or, worse, third degree, treatment is possible only in one way - surgically.
Orthopedic insoles for transverse flat feet
Capable of minimizing:
- significant load when walking on the joints, spine, metatarsals;
- prevent further destruction of joints and the formation of calluses;
- improve shock-absorbing properties of the foot and lower leg;
- correct all changes;
- improve blood circulation;
- reduce pain during rest and movement.
Purpose of foot insoles (orthopedic insoles)
This purchase will bring undoubted benefits:
- will provide assistance to the human musculoskeletal system;
- post-traumatic recovery will be more effective with its help;
- for women who wear high heels and stilettos, they are simply irreplaceable;
- will relieve pain and give correct posture;
- comfort during long walking will be ensured.
What is the power of orthopedic products?
All insoles have a similar configuration. In the front part there is an instep support. And in the recess, the heel area will be located.
When a person begins to move, the central part of the leg also begins to slightly lower and rise. Its fixation will be provided by a metatarsal pillow.
The front part is called the “flap”. Probably because its purpose is the correct placement of the toes.
When a model does not have a “strap”, it is a half-insole. But even this is enough for the person’s weight to be distributed longitudinally throughout the entire product.
We need to pay attention to the “wedges”. They are needed to modify the angle and landing of the foot. If the body weight is distributed longitudinally, the heel will necessarily shift outward. And if you install a wedge then it will be located in the right place.
The corrective insole has two wedges:
- one in the posterior region;
- the second one is in the front.
They have different heights and placements, which is why it is more expedient to make them from a cast. The pads should contain gel; the desired shape will be taken faster.
Approximate manufacturing procedure:
- find out what degree of flatfoot you have today;
- make a print;
- fitting is in progress, and further issuance;
- during wearing, the necessary correction is made.
How does an orthotic insole work?
The desired effect can be achieved through optimal load redistribution. A person will no longer experience awkwardness when moving, and the biomechanics of walking will improve. Other joints will also experience less wear.
How to choose insoles for flat feet?
In size and not only, because everyone’s finger length is also individual. Therefore, the pilot may not be in place. It is necessary to carefully measure the distance from the heel to the liner. You can do this with a rag meter or a ruler.
The most undesirable material for insoles is leather. deputy Silicone insoles should be covered with fabric on top. Ideal - made of genuine leather. Wear-resistant material is also suitable; inside there is usually a cork, a layer of carbon, or latex foam.
Types of orthopedic insoles for flat feet
Types of insoles:
- Thrust bearing:
- Half insoles- only preferable to the spring type. They will work as follows: when the foot rolls from heel to toe and back, it will be reliably supported by the instep support. This part will adjust and keep the arch in its normal position.
- Filled- for all types of flat feet. Ensures the correct location of the heel, will reduce the load and pain from heel spurs, and correct the discrepancy in leg length, but not more than three centimeters.
- Inserts, called pelotas, were designed so that the load could be redistributed from one area to another.
Divided into the following groups:
- Unloading feet- have a beneficial effect in the development of flat feet. The instep supports have metatarsal pads and special grooves on the heel. They are completed and selected personally.
- Preventive- the middle is filled with silicone gel, it easily takes the desired shape. Prevents the formation of flat feet.
- Diabetic- it is produced only from very soft, natural ingredients.
What are orthopedic instep supports?
This is an insole element that:
- prevents it from moving when walking;
- supports and fixes;
- prevents bending.
You can choose the right model based on design features and material that meets your requirements. They are often used in the production of sports shoes.
Application of such insoles:
- increases endurance of professional and amateur athletes;
- improves support and spring function;
- foot injuries are reduced.
Can be used at any age. They are beneficial because, when used, the load will be distributed evenly over the entire ankle joint and parts of the foot. Read about it here.
If you have been diagnosed with flat feet, then you need to wear arch supports constantly.
Just remember to change it as often as only the manufacturer can tell you. For prevention, four hours of wearing a day is enough. Only the load should be reasonable.
Materials and designs
The choice must be made by the doctor, especially with regard to design features and material:
- Wedges, two types:
- internal - for the heel region;
- external - for the finger area.
- Arch support: it is located at the bottom of the arch of the foot.
- There is a concavity: in the heel area.
- Metatarsal pad: This place is located in the roll of the foot, it is slightly elevated. It is a rigidly made frame. Especially indicated for those who have to be on their feet for a long time.
Soft insoles are necessary for those who already have joint problems. If desired, they can be used by pregnant women and overweight people.
The choice of material used will depend on: diagnosis, method of treatment, shoes. Material used: natural and artificial leather, metal, plastic, hard grade cork, polymer raw materials using siliconized gel.
Selection options
Before purchasing, decide on the diagnosis and degree of flat feet.
When choosing, pay attention:
- The configuration of the insole should fit perfectly into the shoes.
- Do not change shape, even with prolonged wear. High-quality insoles should have at least three layers.
- Only hypoallergenic and breathable materials should be used.
- Children under five years of age need to buy only at the pharmacy.
- For teenagers and adults, the best option is to order.
- Some developers have released insoles with removable and, most importantly, replaceable components. Take a closer look at them.
Method for selecting orthopedic insoles for various types of flat feet:
- Longitudinal- there must be an instep support of a specific height for you. You can change the angles of your foot using wedges;
- Transverse- insoles should have: a heel corrector and toe delimiters, preferably cushion-shaped.
- With a varus defect- the insole is made with auxiliary devices. Complete with spare parts for correction.
- For hallux valgus deformity - you need a special, hard insole: peloto pronator or greater side.
It's best not to make the purchase yourself; your feet will thank you for it.
How to choose an orthopedic insole for transverse and longitudinal flat feet?
Here you need the help of a specialist. First, an orthopedic doctor, and then a consultant in a store that sells orthopedic products. They are very expensive and therefore it is better not to make mistakes and buy the right product right away.
If it is not possible to immediately visit a doctor and consult, read the text below. But don’t put off going to the doctor for too long when you already have a diagnosis of longitudinal flatfoot.
This means that the arch has flattened. Shoes will be trampled inside.
Choose an insole with elevation. For transverse ones, you need insoles with a small rubberized padding. They are put on the metatarsal bones.
Review of the best insoles models and their prices
- Ortho Doc - produces insoles for various shoes. Both the client’s age and the diagnosis are taken into account. This Russian manufacturer makes to order. They are hypoallergenic and have good shock absorption. The cost of adult insoles will start from 50,000 rubles.
- Vimanova is a German development. The elasticity of the material contributes to comfort, reduces impact load, and facilitates easy adaptation. Can be worn with many types of shoes. If made to order, their cost will be from 7,400 rubles. You can buy it online for 40,000 rubles.
- Pedapg is a famous German company that produces insoles and arch supports of the highest quality. The production uses unique specialized equipment. The product is in great demand. They can make it individually according to fitting, and for production. Price, online from 9450 rub.
- Igli - these insoles have a base made of carbon. They relieve joint pain and reduce the load on them. It is especially indicated for those who prefer to lead a healthy and especially active lifestyle. Cost from 8300 rub.
- Talus is a company that produces only therapeutic insoles; it has no analogues. Price for one pair from 50,000 rubles.
- Formthotics - their production uses a unique, plastic material. As you walk, it will heat up and take the shape of your foot. Ideal for all types of sports shoes. The cost of one pair is from 3900 rubles.
Orthopedic insoles are a special device widely used for flat feet and other pathologies of the structure of the feet. In terms of its design, an orthopedic insole is an appropriately modified type of insole (ordinary shoe) insole. The purpose of the devices being studied is to gradually eliminate existing disorders of the physiological structure of the foot.
Insoles are available for sale that allow you to combat both longitudinal and transverse forms of flat feet. The latter will be discussed in the further narrative. After reading the information below, you will learn what orthopedic insoles are, why and how they are used, whether they give any significant results and how to choose them correctly.
The insoles offered today practically do not differ in their design. As a rule, the product is equipped with an instep support (installed so as to support the inner arch of the user’s foot). The rolling zone in such conditions becomes elevated. An anatomical depression is created in the heel area. In the same place where the transverse arch is located, the so-called metatarsal pillow is installed. In some cases, the front part of the orthopedic insole is completely removed - it does not provide any clinically significant effect.
One of the main components of the products being studied today is the so-called. wedges Their forces ensure a change in the angle at which the diseased foot relates to the surface. For example, in patients with planovalgus flatfoot, the heel deviates outward from the vertical of the leg.
To correct this state of affairs, a “wedge” is placed under the heel with some thickening towards the inside of the foot. As a result, while walking, the foot will take a physiologically correct position. If there is, for example, a flattening in the area of the longitudinal arch, the therapeutic insole is equipped with a pair of wedges at once - one is placed under the front of the foot, the second - in the heel area.
The effectiveness of insoles is determined by the placement of the wedges and their height.
The main tasks of therapeutic insoles
You can learn about the functional responsibilities assigned to insoles from the following table.
Table. Tasks of orthopedic insoles
Functions | Explanations |
---|---|
With transverse flatfoot, an elevation is created in the middle part of the insole. It is placed so that the patient does not experience discomfort while walking, but at the same time provides the necessary support for the transverse arch. The height and width of the elevation are determined individually in accordance with the intensity of the signs of pathology and the anatomical shape of the foot of a particular patient. | |
With flat feet, deviation of the foot from the normal physiological position often develops. In view of this, in addition to the previously discussed lifting of the arch, actions must be taken to eliminate such deformation. For this purpose, additional wedge-shaped elements are included in the design of the insoles. | |
Insoles should not only be useful, but also easy to use. That is why experts strongly recommend refraining from using standard products and ordering insoles on an individual basis. Such devices will follow the shape of the foot, which will create the best conditions for individual correction of diagnosed deformities and at the same time ensuring the most comfortable use. |
Classification of orthopedic insoles
Insoles are classified into 2 main groups: standard and individual. The latter will completely replicate the size, shape and other anatomical features of the user’s foot. Standard ones do not have this advantage, which is why they are not suitable for every patient.
Additionally, orthopedic insoles can be divided into therapeutic and preventive. The former, in fact, help fight flat feet, the latter minimize the risk of its occurrence in the presence of corresponding unfavorable preconditions.
Insoles may vary in firmness. So, soft ones are used for prevention. They are mainly recommended for children to wear. The purpose of such products is to maintain the leg in the correct position, relieve fatigue from the muscles and ligaments, and minimize the risk of developing flat feet. If there is a curvature of the leg or flat feet, semi-rigid or rigid orthopedic insoles are prescribed. They purposefully work to eliminate existing defects, supporting the user’s legs in the correct position and preventing the occurrence of new deformities.
Features of choosing orthopedic insoles
The more responsible and thoughtful the approach to purchasing orthopedic insoles, the more effective their use can be ultimately expected. We invite you to familiarize yourself with the most significant criteria.
Highlights
For the insole to be truly useful and effective, it must be ordered individually. This is the first point.
The second is the choice in favor of preventive or corrective insoles. As noted, the former are worn in the absence of manifestations of flat feet, the latter - when such occurs.
A separate category includes the so-called. correctors for patients with diabetes. In such people, the nerve endings in certain areas of the foot become less sensitive, which leads to involuntary disruption of normal gait with the subsequent formation of calluses, corns, etc. Diabetic insoles help avoid such troubles. They contain a gel that spreads when pressure is applied. Thanks to this structure, these products are best adapted to the feet of a particular patient.
Orthopedic insoles for pregnant women with flat feet should also be included in a separate category. If there is such a foot pathology, a pregnant woman, as her own weight increases, will suffer from swelling and pain in her legs. The careful support provided by the insoles will help avoid such problems.
Prices and manufacturers
No less important for many potential buyers is the issue of the cost of orthopedic insoles. In general, they are relatively inexpensive, but you definitely need to navigate these points. For example, frankly cheap models costing about 100 rubles will not give the desired effect, so you should definitely refrain from buying them. From the middle price category, we can recommend insoles from such manufacturers as Orthopedic Footwear Factory (based in Moscow), OrtoDoc, etc.
Foreign-made insoles are more expensive, but some of them, for example, from GT and Pedag, are superior to their domestic counterparts in a number of significant parameters.
How are insoles made?
As noted, the best solution for a person with transverse flatfoot would be to order an orthopedic insole on an individual basis. Its production includes 4 main stages.
- The doctor determines the existing degree of flatfoot.
- A footprint is made.
- Sequential fitting is carried out.
- The finished insoles are given to the patient.
Video - Manufacturing of individual orthopedic insoles using PEDCAD technology
The prescription for insoles is prepared by an orthopedist. Having assessed the condition of a particular patient, the doctor will draw up the most optimal scheme for distributing loads on the feet. These conclusions will be taken into account in the manufacture of insoles, which will ensure the highest quality implementation of the assigned tasks and guarantee the best efficiency.
Important note! When choosing preventive orthopedic insoles, you must definitely pay attention to the material they are made of. The best solution is genuine leather. This material will ensure that the original correct shape of the therapeutic insoles is maintained for the longest possible time. On average, the “shelf life” of such products is up to 2 years.
Are insoles really effective?
According to research, insoles do have beneficial effects. But regarding this point, much is determined by the characteristics of the existing disease, or more precisely, by the intensity of its severity. The pattern is simple: the stronger the flatfoot, the more difficult it is to treat.
Under any circumstances, orthopedic insoles will ensure that the feet are fixed in an anatomically and physiologically correct position. Arch supports will help position the foot along the axis, prevent subsidence of the arches in the future and ensure proper distribution of loads on the muscles and ligaments.
In addition to flat feet itself, orthopedic insoles help combat a number of problems and pathologies that develop against the background of the first. The list is as follows:
- ensures a decrease in the intensity of pain in the legs and feet;
- the risk of arthrosis is reduced;
- the load on the spinal column is reduced, which helps improve posture;
- minimizes the risk of corns, calluses and other similar defects;
- tucking of the feet is avoided;
- gait improves;
- provides shock absorption during walking;
- muscles are unloaded.
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Flat feet is a serious disease of the musculoskeletal system, which significantly affects a person’s well-being and worsens the quality of life. A complete cure for this disease is possible only in childhood, while the foot is still forming. However, it is possible to prevent further development of flat feet and significantly improve the condition of the foot. The main means for this is the correct choice of insoles for flat feet and their regular use.
Design and functions of orthopedic insoles
Orthopedic insoles may include the following basic elements:
- instep support - a supporting part located in the area of the longitudinal arch;
- depression in the heel area;
- pelota, or flat cushion (metatarsal) in the area of the transverse arch;
- raised zone in the roll area;
- wedges (internal and external for the anterior and posterior sections) - used to correct insoles.
The design of a particular model is always individual and depends on the characteristics of the foot deformation. Therefore, it is very important to consult a specialist who will help you choose insoles that are suitable for your type of flat feet.
Orthopedic insoles support the foot in the correct anatomical position, perform a shock-absorbing function, prevent the progression of the disease, and reduce the load on the spine. They also optimize the tone of the foot muscles, improve blood circulation, make walking more comfortable and eliminate pain.
Orthopedic insoles for longitudinal flat feet
With this type of flatfoot, the longitudinal arch of the foot flattens, causing almost the entire surface of the foot to come into contact with the floor. Often, the intensity of the development of the disease depends on the person’s weight. The larger it is, the stronger the symptoms appear.
Orthopedic longitudinal insoles are characterized by the main feature - the presence of a high arch support. This element supports the longitudinal arch, which helps restore normal biomechanics of the leg:
- Excessive stress is relieved, blood circulation improves, and foot stability increases.
- Pain sensations are eliminated.
- The formation and development of heel spurs is prevented.
Also, insoles must have wedges with which you can change the angle of inclination while walking.
An important characteristic of products prescribed for longitudinal flatfoot is the height of the instep support. Its value is determined by the structure of the foot, the degree of the disease and individually for each person.
It is wrong to purchase insoles at a pharmacy that sells products with average parameters. It is best if a specialist selects the characteristics of orthopedic insoles for you.
The best material for longitudinal insoles is high-temperature plastic. It provides effective arch support and good heel support. A mandatory requirement is that the insole exactly matches the shoe size.
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Transverse flatfoot is characterized by flattening of the transverse arch. The patient's foot has a transversely spread shape and becomes shorter with the big toe pointed to the side. To reduce symptoms and correct it, it is important to understand what insoles are needed for transverse flatfoot.
With this form of the disease, it is important to provide support for the transverse arch. Therefore, the insole must have:
- Pelot - evenly distributes the load on the forefoot.
- Frame - protects and supports longitudinal waters, redistributes the load along the foot.
In addition, insoles for transverse flat feet may have a heel shock absorber. This important element reduces the shock load placed on the heel when walking. This ensures protection of the Achilles tendons and hip joints.
All geometric parameters of orthopedic insoles for transverse flatfoot must also be determined by a doctor. He selects the sizes of all corrective elements of the product based on the structure of the patient’s foot, the nature and degree of deformation.
Features of choosing insoles for children
Foot pathologies usually develop in childhood. During this period there is still a good chance of complete recovery. Therefore, many parents are interested in: how to choose orthopedic insoles for children.
- The parameters of the product should only be determined by a pediatric orthopedist. Self-selection is unacceptable, since incorrect selection can only cause additional harm.
- Regardless of the type of flatfoot, children's insoles should have a thickened arch support. This is due to the fact that the child’s longitudinal arch is not yet formed and needs support.
conclusions
- Orthopedic insoles are an effective means for correcting flat feet.
- To achieve maximum effect from their use, it is important to choose the right products, depending on the type of disease. The selection must be made by a doctor.
- Insoles should be made of high-quality materials that provide comfortable wearing and effective support for the foot.