How Are Orthotics Different From Regular Shoe Insoles?
There’s a significant difference between regular insoles and orthotics. Regular insoles are purely designed to provide a cushioning effect and shock absorption. They may feel comfortable at first, however they do not address any biomechanical problems, i.e. they are not designed to correct over-pronation. On the other hand, orthotics are a functional device, designed to correct and optimize our foot function. Some insoles also feature an arch support, however they tend to be mostly made of soft materials. As a result, the support they provide is often too weak to have any effect.
How do orthotics exactly work? First of all, orthotics do a lot more than support the arches. Orthotics realign the feet and ankles, and restore deficient foot function. In addition, orthotics enable a more even weight distribution, taking pressure off sore spots (e.g. the heels, the ball of the foot, corns in between toes, and bunions). They also provide some degree of shock absorption, but this is not their main purpose. The main purpose of an orthotic insole I is to improve foot function, in many cases reducing pain and preventing serious problems and injuries in the future.
Fragile Feet