How to Choose Insoles for Flat Feet (Buying Guide)
Flatfoot is a severe disease of the musculoskeletal system, which primarily affects a person's well-being and worsens life quality. A complete cure for this disease is possible only in childhood, while foot formation is still ongoing.
However, it can prevent further development of flat feet and significantly improve the foot's condition. The primary tool 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 essential elements:
- Arch support - the supporting part located in the area of the longitudinal arch;
- Deepening in the heel area;
- Flat pillow (metatarsal) in the field of the transverse arch;
- Elevated zone in the roll area;
- Wedges (internal and external for the front and rear) - are used to correct the insoles.
The design of a particular model is always individual and depends on the foot's deformation features. Therefore, it is essential to consult a specialist to help you choose the insoles suitable for your flat feet type.
Orthopedic insoles support the foot in the correct anatomical position, perform a shock-absorbing function, prevent the disease's progression, and reduce the spine's load. They also optimize the foot muscles' tone, improve blood circulation, make walking more comfortable, and eliminate pain.
Orthopedic Insoles With Longitudinal Flat Feet
With this type of flat foot in humans, the longitudinal arch of the foot is flattened, almost in contact with the floor over the entire surface. Often the intensity of the disease development depends on the person's weight. The larger it is, the more severe the symptoms are.
Orthopedic longitudinal insoles are characterized by the main feature - the presence of high arch support. This element supports the longitudinal arch, which helps to restore normal leg biomechanics:
- The excessive load is removed, blood circulation improves, and foot stability increases.
- Pain is eliminated.
- The formation and development of the heel spur are prevented.
Also, the insoles must-have wedges with which you can change the inclination angle while walking.
An essential characteristic of products prescribed for longitudinal flat feet is the height of the arch support. Its value is determined by the structure of the foot, the degree of the disease, and the individual.
Purchasing insoles at a pharmacy where items with average parameters are sold is wrong. It is best if a specialist for you selects the characteristics of the orthopedic insoles.
The best material for longitudinal insoles is high-temperature plastic. It provides the best arch support for shoes and holds the heel well. A mandatory requirement is the exact fit of the insole to the shoe size.
Orthopedic Insoles With Transverse Flat Feet
Transverse flatfoot is characterized by flattening of the transverse arch. The foot of the patient has a transverse-flat shape and becomes shorter with the thumb laid aside.
With this form of disease, it is essential to support the transverse arch. Therefore, the insole must have the following:
- Flat pillow - Evenly distributes the load on the forefoot.
- Frame - Protects and supports longitudinal water and redistributes the load on foot.
Also, insoles with transverse flat feet can have a heel shock absorber. This essential element reduces the shock load that affects the heel when walking. This ensures the protection of the Achilles tendons and hip joints.
A doctor should also determine all geometric parameters of orthopedic insoles with transverse flat feet. He selects the sizes of all the product's corrective elements based on the structure of the patient's foot, the nature, and the degree of deformation.
Features of the Selection of Insoles for Children
Pathologies of the foot are usually formed in childhood. During this period, there is still a good chance of a complete cure. Therefore, many parents are interested in choosing orthopedic insoles for children.
- Product parameters should be determined only by a pediatric orthopedist.Self-selection is unacceptable, as improper selection can only cause additional harm.
- Regardless of the type of flat feet, children's insoles should have thickened arch support. This is because the longitudinal arch in the child has not yet been formed and needs help.
Conclusions
- Orthopedic insoles are a valuable tool for correcting flat feet.
- To achieve the maximum use effect, it is crucial to choose the right products, depending on the disease type. A doctor should carry out the selection.
- Insoles should be made of quality materials that provide comfortable wearing and adequate foot support.
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