What are insoles?
Insoles are devices that are inserted in shoes to correct an abnormal alignment of the foot. The type of insole required will depend on your specific problem and you will need to have a thorough podiatry assessment to decide what the most appropriate insole is to suit your needs. At Physio.co.uk there are specialist podiatrists who are experienced at providing insoles for a variety of conditions.
What conditions may benefit from insoles?
Insoles can be used for a number of conditions and each one has to be individually prescribed to ensure that it is carrying out the correct job. The podiatrists at Physio.co.uk have a vast knowledge of multiple conditions and will advise you on the most appropriate insole. Some of the conditions that may be treated using an insole include:
- Achilles tendonitis
- Over pronated feet (flat feet)
- Plantar fasciitis
- Inflammation on the arches of the feet
- Corns/ bunions
- Hammer toes/ Mallet toes
- Metatarsalgia (pain around the ball of the foot)
- Shin splints
- Morton’s neuroma (swelling of the nerve between the 3rd and 4th metatarsals)
Above: Mobility exercises using two walking sticks and close supervision of a physiotherapist
Why might I develop these problems?
There are a number of different reasons causing the conditions described above. The experienced podiatrists at Physio.co.uk will complete a full assessment of your feet to identify the causes of your problem. This will then make it easier to provide you with a treatment plan and prescribe your specialist insoles. Potential reasons why you may require insoles include:
- Incorrect gait/ running technique
- Arthritis
- Joint hypermobility
- Muscle weakness
- Joint instability
- Lax ligaments
- Poor foot posture
- Inappropriate footwear
- Training on heard surfaces
- Being overweight
- Driving for long periods
What are the benefits of insoles?
Anyone can benefit from the use of insoles, not just sports performers. The podiatrists at Physio.co.uk will work with you to find the best type of insole to meet your specific goals. Some of the benefits of insoles include:
- Promotes normal alignment
- Maintains the integrity of the ligaments, tendons and muscles of the foot
- Reduces pain
- Improves walking/running efficiency
- Improves gait pattern
- Helps you to return to hobbies or sports
- Reduced inflammation
- Increased stability of joints
- Greater use out of footwear
- Reduce risk of sprains and other ankle injuries
- Improved sensation
Summary
Insoles are devises inserted in shoes to promote the correct alignment of the feet. They can be used for a variety of different conditions but it is essential that they are correctly prescribed to optimise their performance. Physio.co.uk have experienced podiatrists that will provide you with a comprehensive assessment to identify the most appropriate insole to suit your needs.
For any more information or if you would like to book an appointment with the podiatrists atPhysio.co.uktoday, please call us on 0330 088 7800.Alternatively, make an appointment with us online today!