Insoles

An insole is a removable footbed to place in the shoe. They support the feet where needed. Insole is an umbrella term that includes orthotic insoles, corrective insoles, off-the-shelf insoles, and condition-specific insoles. These are used to prevent injuries, to help reduce existing symptoms, or to increase comfort.

Reasons to use insoles

Everyone's feet are different, and so is their alignment. Some people have flat feet, fallen arches, toes that are crooked, or feet that roll inward a bit more. Most people fortunately have no problems with the alignment of their feet. But some people do have or develop issues.

They may experience foot pain when standing (for long periods), walking, working, or playing sports. It is also possible to develop symptoms in other parts of the body due to an abnormal foot alignment, for example in the ankles, knees, hips, or back. Those people may benefit from using insoles.

Different types of insoles

Within insoles, a subdivision is made into:

• Support insoles. These mainly support the arches of the foot and the forefoot.
• Off-the-shelf insoles. These are standard insoles that are freely available at the shoe repair shop or shoe store. Often these can be made to fit by trimming a small piece off the front of the insole.
• Corrective insoles. These are intended to (permanently) change the position of the foot. For example, if foot alignment needs to be improved in a child with a congenital foot deformity. Corrective insoles are also used to improve posture or gait. Or to better distribute the pressure under the foot.
• Condition-specific insoles. Many foot injuries and conditions are possible. Think of Achilles tendinopathy, heel spur, fallen arches, or a Morton's neuroma. A condition-specific insole is specially made to reduce (pain) symptoms.

Based on the condition or goal, you can choose:

• Full-length or half-length insoles.
• Heel cups that support only the heel.
• Insoles for certain (sport) activities.
• Insoles made of hard or soft material.

Note! The wrong insole can also cause or worsen symptoms. So always get proper advice.

Where can you get insoles?

Shoe repair shops and shoe stores sell off-the-shelf insoles that fit in almost any shoe. When the store-bought support insoles do not have the right fit, it is wise to have the insoles custom-made.

A podiatrist knows better than anyone which corrections a foot needs to optimally support it. Of course, these are more expensive than the insoles available in the store.