5 reasons why active people should wear custom shoe inserts

For active individuals custom shoe inserts can be a game-changer, enhancing performance, preventing injuries, and providing unparalleled comfort.

You are stretching, lifting weights, getting your steps, eating protein…all the things you know lead to a healthy, active lifestyle…

But are you taking care of your feet?

Probably not.

Your feet can cause of many of the problems that occur “up the chain” in your body…think knee pain, back pain, hip pain.

Custom shoe inserts should not be overlooked as a tool to prevent injury and keep you active.

We’ve summarized the research on how custom shoe inserts play a role in managing many ailments that active people often experience.

1. Orthotic Management of Plantar Fasciitis

Summary: This research demonstrated that shoe inserts effectively reduce pain and improve function in patients with plantar fasciitis by providing better arch support and shock absorption.

When patients do not respond to core treatment (taping, stretching, and individualized education), custom shoe inserts can be considered based on positive evidence of moderate strength for short-term outcomes.

2. Foot Orthoses for Flexible Flatfeet in Children and Adults

Summary: The study found that custom shoe inserts are beneficial in managing flatfoot, improving foot alignment, and reducing pain during activities.

Flatfoot is a condition where the arches of the feet are flattened, causing the entire sole to touch the ground when standing.

Flatfoot can cause pain because the arches play a crucial role in absorbing shock and supporting the foot's structure. When the arches collapse, it can lead to misalignment and instability, putting extra stress on the feet, ankles, knees, and even the back. This can result in pain, particularly in the heel or arch area, and may worsen with activity.

This study charted pain outcomes when comparing foot orthoses vs no orthoses/sham insoles group in adults and children with flexible flat feet.

The chart shows significant pain reduction between baseline and follow-up for participants using orthoses compared to the control groups, both during resting and walking, while there was no significant difference in the running group.

Here's a breakdown:

1. Resting Pain Reduction: The chart shows a greater decrease in pain levels for the orthoses group compared to the control group between the baseline and the follow-up. This can be seen through a larger downward trend or drop in the pain scale values for those using orthoses.
2. Walking Pain Reduction: Similarly, for pain experienced while walking, there was a more considerable reduction in pain levels for the orthoses group. This is again illustrated by a steeper decline in the chart compared to the control group.
3. Overall Comparison: The overall comparison between all groups underlines that participants using orthoses experienced significantly larger reductions in pain than those in the control group, both at rest and while walking. This is evident as the lines or bars representing the orthoses group show a more significant change from baseline to follow-up compared to those of the control group.

3. Impact of Foot Orthotics on Running Biomechanics

Summary: Overuse running injuries are related to an imbalance between the repetitive load applied to a structure and its adaptive capacity. This review indicates that foot orthotics can redistribute loads onto other structures thus leading to an immediate reduction in pain and potentially treating the injury.

4. Dose-Response Effects of Forefoot and Arch Orthotic Components on the Center of Pressure Trajectory During Running in Pronated Feet

Summary: A pronated foot posture has been identified as a risk factor for lower limb overuse injury as abnormal forefoot function may be the key to injury development in pronated feet.

Forefoot orthotic components rather than arch supports are effective in altering forefoot dynamics in runners with pronated feet.

5. The Effectiveness of Custom Hard-Shell 3D-Printed Foot Orthoses in a Cohort of Patients Who Did Not Respond to Treatment with Custom ethylene-vinyl-acetate (EVA) Foot Orthoses

Summary: Thirty-six patients with a range of musculoskeletal lower limb issues who remained symptomatic after 12-weeks using custom EVA shoe inserts were fitted with custom hard-shell 3D-printed shoe inserts.

Across the full cohort there were significant improvements in pain, function and foot health and twenty-six patients required no further treatment for their original condition after two years.

Getting fitted for custom shoe inserts

At Stretch Affect we always look to bring the best-in-class products to our clients. And we found the perfect partner in Materialise and phits orthotics. For ten years Materialise and phits have been world leaders in combining 3D printing and precise data measurements to create the perfect custom shoe insole for every person and lifestyle.

Materialise uses footscan technology to offer true customization based on your personal data.

Analyzing your gait dynamically with footscan data allows us to identify potential risks that you cannot detect by eye alone.

Identifying peak pressures, zones of risk, and your center of pressure line gives us information to create a one-of-a-kind custom shoe insert made just for you.

Step 1: Measurement

We learn the ins and outs of your body through dynamic gait analysis. You’ll walk and stand on a pressure plate that will gather data on what’s going on beneath your foot while you move.

Step 2: Analyze

We analyze any potential issues or concerns and learn which parts of your feet have the most pressure, whether you step with the heel or toe, and if your arches are high or low.

Step 3: Design

Using your data, we design a custom shoe insert to suit your needs and lifestyle. It will include all the corrections you need and be a perfect fit for your feet.

Step 4: Manufacture

With the design complete, it’s time for your orthotics to come to life. We send your scan to our partner Materialise who will 3D print your custom shoe inserts in their dedicated facilities.

Step 5: Enjoy

Unbox and enjoy your pair of custom shoe inserts designed specifically for you!

Taking care of custom shoe inserts

Taking care of your shoe inserts is pretty simple. You don’t want to do much deep or harsh cleaning as this can harm the integrity of the insoles.

Here are some steps to clean your custom shoe inserts properly:

If there is an odor, take them out of your shoes to allow them to air out and prevent moisture buildup.

If you want to wash them, mix a mild soap or detergent with warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive cleaners as they can damage the material.

Lightly wet a towel with clean water and gently wipe the orthotics to remove any soap residue. Pat them dry with a clean towel. Do not soak or submerge them in water.

Allow the orthotics to air dry completely in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Never put them in the dryer as heat can damage the materials

When to replace custom shoe inserts

Custom shoe inserts are expected to last up to two years. Several factors contribute to the longevity of your orthotics.

Factors Affecting Lifespan:

Frequency of Use: Daily use can wear out orthotics faster compared to occasional use.

Activity Level: High-impact activities like running can shorten the lifespan of orthotics.

Body Weight: Heavier individuals may find their orthotics wear out more quickly.

Material Quality: Higher-quality materials tend to last longer.

Signs for replacement:

Pain or Discomfort: If you start experiencing the same pain you had before using orthotics, it might be time for a replacement.

Visible Damage: Cracks, thinning, or broken pieces indicate that the orthotic is no longer effective.

Uneven Wear on Shoes: This can suggest that the orthotic is no longer providing proper support.

Custom shoe inserts are not just for the elderly or those with health issues. They can be used by those looking to relieve pain from standing all day at work, or those looking for an edge to improve athletic performance.

We are excited to offer this service for those looking for custom shoe inserts in the San Diego area. One thing that separates us from buying over-the-counter orthotics is our team of physical therapists who will understand your needs, give expert evaluation, and recommendations. Reach out to us to schedule your personalized footscan analysis with one of our physical therapists.

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