Do You Need Insoles or Orthopaedic Shoes?

July 24, 2020

Do You Need Insoles or Orthopaedic Shoes?

If you have been experiencing foot pain, discomfort, or have been diagnosed with a disease that put your feet at risk, you have probably heard of orthotics and orthopaedic shoes and may be left with the following questions:

What is the difference between the two?
Which one is better for me and my foot concerns?
What properties should I look for to accommodate my lifestyle?

In today’s blog, we will tackle these questions to help provide a better understanding of these devices, and ultimately help you make the right, healthy choices for your feet.

What is an Orthotic Insole?

An orthotic insole is an insert that is placed inside a shoe to address various foot concerns. There are two major kinds of insoles: custom foot orthotics and over the counter insoles.

Benefits of Custom Orthotic Insoles

A custom foot orthotic is classified as a medical device made from a three-dimensional mould of an individual’s foot. Therefore, it is unique to one’s specific foot and tailored to meet one’s foot needs. These devices are prescribed by a physician or a foot specialist, such as a Registered Chiropodist or podiatrist and will contain specific prescriptive elements based on the practitioner’s physical assessment. Custom foot orthotics address faulty foot mechanics and other foot ailments that cause pain such as, plantar fasciitis, painful calluses and corns, shin splints, tendonitis, diabetic feet, and ulcers. They are made to mechanically control, support, redistribute pressures, and balance the foot to improve function. They are also made from high-quality materials and will generally last 2-3 years if used properly.

Look into your insurance plan as some plans cover a percentage of custom foot orthotics when prescribed and assessed by a recognized health care practitioner.

An over the counter insole is a shoe insert that you can find in the shelves of your local pharmacy or retail sports store. Compared to a custom orthotic, these devices are much less costly; however, they will not address or correct improper foot function and more serious foot problems. The purpose of over the counter shoe inserts/insoles/arch supports is to provide additional cushioning, support, and increase general comfort for the foot.

What is an Orthopaedic Shoe?

An orthopaedic shoe is a shoe made with properties a normal shoe would not typically have. These types of shoes are made to accommodate foot abnormalities or foot deformities, improve biomechanical foot function, as well as enhance the effectiveness of custom foot orthotics.

Benefits of Orthopaedic Shoes

Orthopaedic shoes are for those who are suffering from bunions, hammertoes, heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, diabetes, arthritis, flat feet, swollen feet caused by venous insufficiency/lymphedema, or recovering from foot surgery. This type of footwear is made with characteristics that a normal shoe would not normally have. These may include but are not limited to:

Extra-wide and deep toe box to accommodate and make room for bony toe deformities
Firm heel counter to control and support the heel as well as prevent irritation to the Achilles tendon
Deep heel cup to control and stabilize the heel for better alignment
Shock-absorbing sole to dissipate ground reaction forces and reduce stresses on joints and soft tissues of the body
Stability sole and good torsional stability to help control faulty foot mechanics such as overpronation (rolling in of the foot towards its arches) and stabilize the foot
Rocker bottom sole to promote a smooth and efficient heel to toe gait by inhibiting painful joint motion such as those seen in conditions like hallux limitus or hallux rigidus
Easy to fasten (eg velcro straps) for those who suffer from conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and have difficulty using their hands
Seamless design to prevent irritation and pressure points which may not be detected in an individual with diabetic neuropathy
Removable liner to adequately accommodate a custom foot orthotic

How to Choose an Orthotic Insole Based on Your Lifestyle

We are fortunate enough to live in a time when orthotic insoles come in a wide array of shapes and sizes to accommodate different lifestyles and footwear. The following are general guidelines to keep in mind when looking for insoles for specific lifestyle choices.*

Athletic

Good shock absorption
Good cushioning if the footwear allows room for this
Semi-rigid to semi-flexible shell depending on what the individual can tolerate
Top cover (the material that comes in direct contact with the foot) should have low friction and good breathability qualities

Career-Oriented

Dress shoe orthotics
Thin and narrow device to fit into a lower volume shoe
3/4 length

Retired Life

Good cushioning properties in particular at the ball of the foot and heel
Full length
Supportive
Semi-flexible to flexible shell

*If you are experiencing foot pain and continuous foot discomfort it is in your best interest to book an appointment for a consultation from a licensed health care practitioner. Chiropodists are foot care specialists who are professionally trained to assess the biomechanics of the lower extremity. At your appointment, a full medical history will be taken and a biomechanical assessment and gait analysis performed to determine the right foot care devices for your needs.

We’ve Got You Covered!

We’re confident in our ability to help inform you and solve your concern with the least amount of discomfort as possible. Call us even to ask about a quick question and we’d be happy to point you in the right direction!

Call us at 416-769-3338 or Book Your Assessment Today!

Here’s to Many More Years of Foot Care!

At Feet First Clinic, we’re always excited to welcome new clients! After a successful 12 years of treating our amazing patients, we’re ready to continue offering only the best foot care services and products. Give us a call to ask our friendly staff any questions you may have! Our Toronto foot specialists are ready to help!

Call us at 416-769-3338 or Book Your Assessment Today!

PrevPrevious Featured Birkenstocks For Summer

NextNext How Does My Gait Affect My Life?

April 8, 2024

The Link Between Footwear and Back Pain: What You Need to Know

Back pain is common among adults, with up to 80% of people experiencing back pain at least once in their lifetime. While the causes of back pain can vary, one often overlooked factor is the type of footwear we wear. Believe it or not, the shoes we put on our feet can significantly impact our spinal health. This article will explore the connection between footwear and back pain and provide insights into choosing shoes to support a healthy back. The alignment connection Our feet are the foundation of our body's alignment, and our shoes play a crucial role in maintaining proper alignment from the ground up. When we wear shoes with inadequate support or that don't fit properly, it can throw off the alignment of our feet, leading to a chain reaction of misalignment throughout the body, including the spine. This misalignment can cause strain on the muscles and ligaments of the back, leading to discomfort and pain. High heels and back pain One of the most well-known culprits of back pain is high heels. While they may be fashionable, high heels can wreak havoc on the spine. The elevated heel alters the spine's natural curvature, increasing pressure on the lower back and making the muscles to work harder to maintain balance. Over time, this can lead to muscle imbalances, postural issues, and chronic back pain. Flat shoes and lack of support Conversely, flat shoes with inadequate support can also contribute to back pain. Shoes that lack proper arch support don't provide necessary shock absorption and stability, leading to increased stress on the spine. Additionally, shoes with worn-out soles or insufficient cushioning can exacerbate back pain by failing to provide adequate protection against impact forces. Choosing the right footwear So, what can we do to prevent back pain and promote spinal health through our footwear choices? Here are some tips for selecting the right shoes: Opt for shoes with adequate arch support to maintain the spine's natural curvature. Look for cushioned soles that provide shock absorption to reduce impact on the spine. Choose shoes with a supportive heel counter to stabilize the foot and ankle. Ensure proper fit by wearing shoes and walking around to assess comfort and support. Consider orthotic inserts or custom-made orthotics to address specific foot issues and improve overall alignment. When it comes to back pain, every step counts. By paying attention to our shoes and choosing footwear that supports spinal health, we can take proactive steps to prevent discomfort and promote overall well-being.

April 4, 2024

The Science of Walking: How Foot Mechanics Impact Your Health

Today we delve into the relationship between walking and health, with a specific focus on foot mechanics and how crucial they are. The impact walking has on your overall health is something most people don’t think about in their day-to-day life. But foot motion science suggests everyone should learn about this topic! When your walking pattern is compromised, even slightly, it can put you at risk of developing foot pain, in addition to heel and ankle pain, back pain, knee pain and even hip pain! This can wreak havoc on your overall life as you experience worsening discomfort. Let’s explore more about the connection between your walking pattern and overall health! The Connection Between Walking and Overall Health To start, here are some basic tidbits of info to remember: The scientific term for “walking pattern” is gait. There is an inverse relationship between musculoskeletal foot conditions and your gait. Foot issues can lead to gait abnormalities as you try to accommodate new pain while still getting to the places you need to go. However, abnormal walking patterns can also put you at risk of developing additional problems. In addition to pre-existing foot conditions, risk factors that may lead to gait abnormalities include age-related foot changes, your foot type (flat feet or high arches), having foot/ankle injuries in the past, balance and neurological disorders, and ill-fitting and low-quality footwear. Common Types of Gait Abnormalities and How They Affect Our Health Two gait abnormalities we see a lot at Feet First Clinic are overpronation and supination. Overpronation is synonymous with flat feet and the resultant issues that develop when you have a flat/fallen arch. When you “overpronate,” your foot rolls inward excessively as you stride forward. Supination is when you place too much weight on the outside of your feet. These walking patterns are often subconscious and your way of trying to adjust to having “non-typical” feet. Gait abnormalities can completely mess with your lower extremities. In more scientific words, they affect your feet and ankles and lead to misalignments in the lower body, which may contribute to issues such as knee pain, hip discomfort, and lower back problems. This is because your body’s skeletal system is connected and everything must work in harmony. You are also more prone to injury when you overpronate! Lastly, there are many specific versions of gait abnormalities. One may not overpronate or supinate, but different types of pain can result in various compensatory movements. Check out this valuable resource from Stanford Medicine for more. Treating Abnormal Walking Patterns Don’t worry if you think you may have a gait abnormality. Unless your walking pattern is caused by a severe medical issue, you can often work hard at correcting it. There are many services, medical devices, and products you can try. Foot assessment: Understanding your feet is the first step (no pun intended!). Video gait analysis: This will provide valuable insights into biomechanical issues, your foot type, and any noticeable abnormalities. Custom-made orthotics: Orthotics work by improving your gait, over time, and with correct usage. Strengthening and balance exercises: These improve muscle strength, coordination, and stability. Surgical interventions (in severe cases of foot deformities, for instance, bunion correction). Footwear modifications: Medical shoes and stability/motion control shoes can often help. Focusing on your posture: This helps properly align the body’s skeletal structure. Remember: everything is connected, from head to toe!

April 1, 2024

Spring Footwear Trends 2024: What’s Hot for Healthy Feet

As the seasons transition and we bid farewell to the winter chill, it's time to update our footwear game for the vibrant days of spring. This year, the trends are about combining style with functionality, ensuring your feet look and feel good. From casual sneakers to rugged hikers, here are the top trendy shoes for spring footwear trends for 2024 that will elevate your style while keeping you comfortable and prepared for whatever the season throws. Sneakers Sneakers, particularly those embodying Converse style, combine timeless fusion and a bit of flair. Pair them with jeans for a laid-back vibe, or dress them up slightly for an elevated look. Ara Fusion Lilly First up on our list of trendy shoes for spring 2024 are the Ara Fusion Lilly sneakers in a sleek grey hue. These sneakers blend style and comfort effortlessly, making them perfect for the transitional period before summer arrives. Their classic sneaker silhouette and subtle grey colour are versatile enough to pair with any outfit, from jeans and a tee to a casual sundress. Plus, their stretchable, breathable construction is perfect for accomodating bunions and hammertoes, so your feet stay relaxed and comfortable all day. Slip-ons Slip-on sneakers allow individuals to slide them on and off effortlessly with no fuss. Wear slip-ons to run errands or to more casual outings without sacrificing comfort and style. NAOT Okahu Slip-ons are a must-have for any spring wardrobe, and the NAOT Okahu in black is a stylish choice that ticks all the boxes. These sleek slip-ons feature a minimalist design with a comfortable footbed that moulds to your feet for a personalized fit. Whether running errands or meeting friends for brunch, these shoes will keep you looking effortlessly chic while providing the support your feet need. They're perfect for those days when you're on the go. Transitional sneakers Transitional sneakers are another one of our top spring footwear trends. Their adaptable nature allows wearers to effortlessly go from work, to errands, to city strolls, complementing a range of outfits and lifestyles with their understated yet contemporary allure. Clarks Nalle Lace For a versatile shoe that seamlessly transitions from day to night, look no further than the Clarks Nalle Lace. These sneakers feature a classic lace-up design with a modern twist, making them perfect for the in-between period before summer arrives. Their lightweight construction and breathable materials ensure your feet stay comfortable all day, while their sleek silhouette adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Whether heading to the office or out for a night on the town, these sneakers have you covered. Clarks Craft Swift Men, step up your shoe game this spring with the Clarks Craft Swift. These casual shoes combine style and functionality, making them perfect for everyday wear. Whether running errands or meeting friends for a casual outing, these shoes will keep you looking sharp and comfortable. Their durable construction and supportive footbeds ensure long-lasting wear, while their classic design adds a touch of sophistication to any ensemble. Their versatile black colour makes them easy to pair with any outfit. GORE-TEX sneakers Engineered with GORE-TEX membrane, these sneakers offer exceptional waterproofing and breathability, keeping feet dry and comfortable in any weather. ASICS Gel-Sonoma GTX For adventurous souls who love to explore the great outdoors, the ASICS Gel-Sonoma GTX hikers are a must-have for spring 2024. Thanks to their GORE-TEX construction, these rugged shoes are designed to tackle any terrain, from rocky trails to muddy paths, while keeping your feet dry and comfortable.

March 25, 2024

Fashionable Footwear for Sensitive Feet: Style Without Sacrifice

In the realm of fashion, footwear often takes center stage. However, finding stylish footwear for sensitive feet that provides comfort can seem like an elusive quest. Fear not: whether you're dealing with conditions like bunions, plantar fasciitis, or have feet that demand extra care, we'll explore a range of footwear brands that cater to sensitive feet without compromising style. Best for cushioning Mephisto Mephisto is renowned for its commitment to crafting footwear that marries fashion with function. Their shoes feature advanced cushioning and support systems, making them ideal for individuals with sensitive feet. Their footbeds are made of cork, a natural material that is naturally shock absorbent and anatomically contoured for the foot. From sleek sneakers to sophisticated loafers, Mephisto offers various styles to suit various tastes and occasions. The Mephisto Hester sandal features a cushioned cork footbed with a deep heel cup and strong arch. It is perfect for summertime outings, casual strolls or as an indoor slipper. Asics While Asics is primarily known for its performance-oriented athletic shoes, the Gel-Nimbus line caters to those seeking superior comfort and support. The Gel-Nimbus utilizes innovative gel cushioning technology to provide excellent shock absorption. They're excellent for individuals with sensitive feet who lead active lifestyles, whether you're hitting the gym or running errands. Best footwear for width and fit Clarks Clarks have long been synonymous with comfort footwear, and its commitment to quality and craftsmanship shines through in every pair it produces. With a focus on ergonomic design and premium materials, Clarks' shoes relieve sensitive feet without compromising style. Some of their shoes are also available in different widths, from narrow to wide, like the Nalle Lace. This stylish sneaker is available in width with and also comes with a zipper to make it easier to take on and off. Clarks also makes a variety of high-end dress shoes, which are a great option for the style-conscious. Ara Ara is another brand renowned for its dedication to comfort and innovation. Their shoes feature cushioned footbeds, flexible outsoles, and adjustable closures, making them an excellent choice for individuals with sensitive feet seeking style and support. The Ara Lilly has a soft cushioned footbed with a stretchable woven upper. It provides maximum comfort and sophistication for any occasion. Portofino Portofino specializes in crafting footwear that seamlessly blends fashion-forward design with orthopedic support. Their shoes feature anatomically shaped footbeds and shock-absorbing soles, catering to the needs of individuals with sensitive feet without compromising on style. Additionally, Portofino offers shoes in H width, which are slightly wider, providing more room and comfort. They also have a more comprehensive tread depth. For instance, the DY-5068 is a favourite. It features a removable insole, allowing you to insert your orthotics, and a zipper for in-and-out ease. Best seamless footwear Seamless footwear is excellent for sensitive feet as fewer friction points come in contact with the foot. Anodyne Anodyne is dedicated to providing therapeutic footwear solutions for individuals with foot ailments. Their shoes feature extra-depth designs, seamless interiors, and accommodative toe boxes, making them an excellent choice for those with sensitive feet seeking relief without sacrificing style. They also accommodate foot sensitivities for people with diabetes. The Anodyne No. 23 is designed with comfort in mind. It features a roomy toe box and plush cushioning, ensuring all-day comfort without compromising style. APEX APEX specializes in crafting shoes that cater to the unique needs of individuals with foot conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and neuropathy. Their shoes feature innovative technologies such as pressure-relieving insoles and stretchable uppers, providing unparalleled comfort and support for sensitive feet. The APEX Ambulator Conform Oxford is engineered for comfort and stability. This Oxford-style shoe features adjustable closures and a removable orthotic insole, making it ideal for individuals with sensitive feet seeking style and functionality. Best footwear with natural materials Certain materials in shoes can aggravate sensitive feet. If you have skin sensitivities or allergies, you may develop contact dermatitis, which can cause a red rash and itchiness, and even skin blisters. Possible allergens in footwear that can lead to contact dermatitis include rubber, the glue that binds your shoes together, a nickel buckle on a sandal, chromates, formaldehyde, or paraphenylenediamine (a type of dye). If your shoes give you a rash or redness, you can try footwear with natural materials. Our picks include: NAOT Shoes crafted from natural materials have garnered widespread acclaim for their comfort, sustainability, and timeless appeal. Among the pioneers in this domain stands NAOT, renowned for its innovative use of cork beds in crafting footwear that melds impeccable comfort with eco-consciousness. NAOT's cork beds are ingeniously designed to conform to the wearer's foot contours, providing unparalleled support and cushioning. Sourced from renewable cork oak trees, this material delivers superior comfort and embodies the brand's commitment to environmental responsibility. One such option for summer is the NAOT Amadora, which is wrapped in suede and moulds to the shape of the foot with each wear. Mephisto Similarly, Mephisto has carved a niche in natural-material footwear, prioritizing comfort and style. Embracing premium leathers, cork footbeds and other natural textiles, Mephisto integrates advanced technologies into its designs to deliver optimal support and flexibility. Whether strolling through urban streets or traversing rugged terrain, Mephisto shoes offer a harmonious blend of form and function, appealing to the discerning consumer seeking quality craftsmanship and sustainable elegance. The Mephisto Izae is a casual-looking sneaker with optimal comfort, fit and a leather lining.

March 11, 2024

Custom Orthotics: When and Why You Might Need Them

Do you often find yourself experiencing foot pain after a long day on your feet? Or maybe you struggle with posture or want to enhance your athletic performance? Custom orthotics may be the solution. This blog post explores why custom orthotics may be necessary, how they benefit your feet, and how to them. Why and when might you need custom orthotics? Custom orthotics are specially designed inserts inside your shoes to support and correctly align your feet. They are built custom to your feet to address any specific issues you may be experiencing. While over-the-counter shoe inserts can provide some relief, they often lack the precision and support that custom orthotics offer. There are several reasons why you might need custom orthotics: Foot pain: Whether dealing with plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, bunions, hammertoes, flat feet, or arch pain, custom orthotics can help alleviate discomfort by providing support and cushioning to the affected areas. Posture improvement: Misalignment in the feet can lead to poor posture, which can cause pain and discomfort in your knees, hips, and lower back. Custom orthotics can help correct these alignment issues, resulting in better posture and reduced pain. Athletic performance: Athletes often rely on their feet to perform at their best. Custom orthotics can provide the support and stability needed to optimize biomechanics and prevent injuries during physical activity. How do custom insoles benefit your feet? The benefits of custom orthotics extend beyond just relieving pain and discomfort. Below are some ways they can improve the health and function of your feet: Improved support Custom orthotic insoles provide support where you need it most, whether in the arches, heels, or balls of your feet. This added support can help distribute pressure and reduce strain on muscles and ligaments. Better alignment By correcting misalignments in the feet, custom insoles can help improve overall body alignment, leading to better posture and reduced risk of injury. Enhanced shock absorption Custom orthotics are made from materials that offer superior shock absorption, helping to cushion your feet and joints from the impact of walking, running, or jumping. Overuse injury prevention Overuse injuries are a common concern. Orthotics can help prevent these injuries by providing stability and support to the feet, reducing the risk of strain and overuse. How do you get fitted for custom orthotics? Getting custom orthotics is straightforward. You can expect the following while being fitted for custom orthotics: 1. Schedule a foot assessment The first step is to schedule a foot assessment with a chiropodist or foot specialist who can assess your feet and discuss your needs and concerns. 2. Physical Exam During the assessment, your feet are examined to identify issues such as flat feet, high arches, or abnormal gait patterns. If you have pain or foot concerns, let your chiropodist know. It also helps to inform your chiropodist about any activities or sports you engage in regularly plus the footwear you own and wear. 3. Gait analysis A video gait analysis helps evaluate how you walk or run to identify biomechanical issues contributing to your foot pain or discomfort. The gait analysis is part of a biomechanical assessment, which also includes a range of motion and weight-bearing assessment. All three help create a more comprehensive overview of your feet. 4. Customization Based on the assessment and analysis findings, your orthotics are designed to address your unique foot structure and alignment issues. Casting captures the foot in a subtalar joint neutral position. At Feet First Clinic, chiropodists use plaster, 3D scanning or foam to cast your feet. 5. Fitting Once the orthotics are made, you return to the specialist for a fitting. The chiropodist will ensure the orthotics fit comfortably inside your shoes and provide the necessary support and alignment. 6. Follow-up Follow-up appointments can be helpful to monitor your progress and adjust the orthotics to ensure optimal comfort and effectiveness.

February 26, 2024

Walking Shoes Vs. Running Shoes: What’s the Difference?

While they often look similar, running shoes have athletic shoe features and specialized running shoe technology that set them apart from walking shoes. However, high-quality walking shoes are still designed to fit comfortably and provide arch support and cushioning - after all, walking is still a form of physical activity! The main difference is that running shoes propel us forward, enhance our performance abilities and are designed with more shock absorption. But there's still more to discover when comparing walking vs. running shoes. We're here to break it down for you. Main Differences Between Walking Vs. Running Shoes Flexibility Cushioning Shoe design Additional differences Flexibility The most flexible parts of the shoe vary between walking and running shoes. Prevention.com notes that running shoes have more flexibility in the midfoot and arch so users can push off using the ball of the foot. Walking shoes have more flexible soles to support steady heel-to-toe movement. Cushioning Again, both walking and running shoes have good levels of cushioning, but it is distributed according to the shoe design and activity (running vs. walking). Running shoes often have more cushioning in the heel and forefoot. This is to absorb impact from the ground’s harsh effects on the joints and muscles, distribute energy efficiently, and provide comfort during strenuous exercise. Walking shoes, on the other hand, provide comfort by placing more cushioning in the midsole and arch areas to encourage comfortable, long walks. Shoe Design Walking and running shoes are crafted with different needs in mind. For instance, running shoes tend to be lighter to enhance agility and reduce fatigue. They also often have mesh uppers (perforated fabric) to promote breathability and allow air flow to enter and leave the shoe environment. This reduces foot odour and helps keep your feet feeling fresh and clean. Conversely, walking shoes can be heavier and include thicker materials since they are accommodating slower-paced, sustained movements. Additional Key Differences Between Walking and Running Shoes Heel-to-Toe Drop: The heel-to-toe drop is the height difference between the heel and forefoot on the bottom of the shoe, measured in millimeters. Walking shoes usually have a lower heel-to-toe drop to encourage a more natural stride, whereas running shoes may have a slightly higher drop for an efficient push off. Traction and Grip Pattern: Both walking and running shoes need good traction to prevent slips, falls and injuries, but running shoes may have a more intricate traction pattern since running is a riskier activity. Soles: Running shoes have stiffer soles, which helps with swift movements and lets you run faster. Walking shoes may have thinner soles because a closer connection to the ground is safer for walking than running.

Request an Appointment

Our simple to use, online booking process makes it easy to book an appointment with a chiropodist for any of our services. No referral needed!

416-769-FEET(3338) 2481 Bloor St. W, Toronto info@feetfirstclinic.com

Mon – Fri: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Sat : 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Sun : 10:00 am – 4:00 pm *
*alternating

Share:

Do You Need Insoles or Orthopaedic Shoes?