We’ve teamed up with a RootFoot orthopedic specialist to highlight the impact of insoles on your health and everyday life. Explore orthopedic insoles, their importance, and how our overall health can benefit from them.
Did you know that our feet are as unique as our fingerprints? But unlike fingertips, our feet perform vital functions and carry a lot of pressure, requiring adequate support to prevent injuries and disease. So, how do we support our feet?
Whether you are walking, running, or lifting weights at the gym, insoles can help support your feet and body, potentially preventing knee and back pain. Even during activities that challenge your balance, such as Pilates, insoles can be beneficial due to their supportive features.
Don’t wait to see an orthopedist, physiotherapist, or surgeon. It’s crucial to prevent foot, leg, and back problems before they appear or worsen. If you’re experiencing pain in your feet, legs, or neck, consult a doctor immediately, as this could indicate a condition where insoles or other medical care are urgently needed.
At the top of the list, individuals diagnosed with flat feet benefit the most from orthopedic insoles. Why?
When flat feet are left unattended, they may lead to various unpleasant problems, such as:
Foot problems: Flat feet might lead to arthritis of the metatarsal joints, arthritis of the ankle itself, and an increased risk of ankle ligament injuries. This is especially important for aspiring runners and other active sports lovers.
Knees: Flat feet can lead to meniscus injury and arthritis of the knee joint, known as gonarthrosis.
Spine and rib cage: Flat feet also have a negative effect on the spine: they can lead to osteochondrosis and, consequently, protrusions and hernias. Moreover, improper foot positioning affects the position of the ribs and can provoke intercostal neuralgia (nerve damage that causes pain and other unpleasant sensations).
Neck problems: Incorrect foot placement leads to poor blood circulation throughout the body, which might lead to vascular spasms in the neck and head.
Teeth: Flat feet can also cause problems such as malocclusion. Our body has an inbuilt system for maintaining posture and balance, relying on proprioceptive sensors—elements of the musculoskeletal system that provide feedback about body position and movement. The expert emphasized that these sensors include the muscles involved in chewing. When the feet do not function properly, it can lead to imbalances and overworking of these muscles, potentially resulting in bruxism (teeth grinding).
So, why does one need orthopedic insoles?
Orthopedic insoles provide anatomical support, ensure proper foot positioning, and help prevent various related conditions. When your feet are supported correctly, the load is distributed evenly, reducing pressure and preventing these unpleasant outcomes.
The best part is that with RootFoot’s state-of-the-art technology, the process of making a pair of custom insoles takes under 15 minutes.
Should I wear insoles if I don’t have flat feet?
If you engage in physical activities, play sports, or have an active lifestyle, your feet experience significant stress daily, even if you don’t have flat feet. This stress affects not only your feet but also your legs, back, and entire body, necessitating additional support.
When considering orthopedic insoles, it’s crucial to have them made by a professional who understands the anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics of the feet and body. Proper foot positioning influences not just the feet but the entire body, including the neck, head, back, and lower back. Even if you are not an athlete, you shouldn’t have to think about how to place your foot while walking. This is why high-quality insoles are essential for your shoes.
