In general terms, there are three different kinds of orthotic shoe inserts to think about when you are thinking of making a smart investment in your feet. Each of these types of devices has varying features, and are used depending on your particular situation:
1) Custom (rigid) orthotics: These orthotic shoe insoles are for people with serious biomechanical disorders i.e. more serious than the usual degree of over pronation that a lot of us suffer from. Custom-made, rigid orthotic shoe inserts are only available from a foot specialist (podiatrist). For example, a minority of people suffer from ‘supination’, which is the contrary to pronation. Their feet roll to the outside or ‘supinate’, and the arch remains high and rigid when touching the ground. This is known as a cavus foot or high-arched foot, and only affects 5% of the world’s population. Supinators will need a custom-made orthotic that deals with this type of issue. Additionally, individuals with very large bunions, foot ulcers, foot deformities or completely flat feet will need to see a foot specialist. After preliminary diagnosis of flat feet, or any of the before mentioned ailments, the podiatrist will choose a custom-made prescription orthotic. Then, a negative-impression plaster cast of the patient’s feet is prepared, and this cast is then sent to an orthotic fabrication laboratory. Using this cast, a positive cast is formed by pouring plaster into the negative mold. The end product is an exact duplicate of the base of the foot. From this sample, the orthotic technician (orthotist) will make a custom-made orthotic, making the required adjustments, as requested by the podiatrist. The end product is a rigid (or semi-rigid) orthotic device. Even though these devices are biomechanically correct, many people find it very challenging adapting to them.
2) Heat-moldable orthotics: Heat-moldable orthotics are a less expensive substitute to the costly custom-made orthotics, which can cost up to $600 per pair. They are a standard, off-the-shelf, flexible device made of medium-firm density E.V.A. material. The device then can be warmed to slightly alter its contour. On occasion wedges are added for a more customized feel. Heat-moldable arch supports cost around $100 to $140 and are to a large extent easier to get used to than custom-made rigid orthotics.
3) Off-the-shelf Orthotics: Off-the-shelf orthotics are a soft-medium density insole, found at , online from specialized e-commerce sites, and also from some physiotherapists and chiropractors. Patients will get used to these orthotics almost right away, and the cost ranges from $30 to $50 per pair. Research has shown that for 80 percent of individuals dealing with over-pronation, a prefabricated orthotic will offer enough a few days of wear, these types of orthotics will mold to the patient’s foot shape, because of their body weight and body heat. Most off-the-shelf orthotic shoe inserts are made of EVA, a supple but firm substance that supports the foot without harming the arches. Children and the elderly will especially benefit from a less rigid type of arch support, since they are less tolerant of anything rigid beneath their feet.
It is always a intelligent choice to receive the guidance of a specialist when you are making this type of purchase. You must ensure you are making the smartest decision for your particular situation.
