The Benefits Of Using Insoles For Flat Feet

By Rosella Campbell


A surprising number of people experience chronic foot problems. Swelling and pain makes it difficult to walk or run. A large percentage of people suffering from such problems are simply wearing the wrong type of shoes, with high heels being the number one culprit. Another common problem seen by podiatrists is fallen arches. This means that the patient does not have an instep. Insoles for flat feet can help to ease the discomfort experienced by these patients.

People with fallen arches experience a range of symptoms. In extreme cases they may experience constant pain. They also find it difficult to stand on their toes and if they are forced to stand up for long periods they can also experience swelling of the ankles and acute lower back pain. Their shoes wear down unevenly and often collapse toward the inside of the foot.

There is nothing that can be done to treat this condition. At best podiatrist can help patients to avoid circumstances where the fallen arches will cause pain or discomfort. Most sufferers find relief from wearing special soles inside their shoes. These inserts support the arches. They are freely available over the counter but in special cases they can even be custom made.

The fact that the condition cannot be cured does not mean that there is nothing sufferers can do to lessen the adverse effects of the symptoms. Podiatrists advise that patients should try and walk barefoot whenever they can. It is also recommended to run on the toes and to perform stretch exercises such as stretching the toes as wide as possible. All these exercises help to strengthen the ligaments and tendons in the foot.

There have been rare cases where surgery has been tried but even highly experienced surgeons will only attempt it as a last resort. Reputable podiatrists shun this procedure and say that it is both too risky and dangerous. After making an incision on the side of the foot a plastic insert is put in the bones of the ankle. However, if this fails the patient will experience lifelong pain and discomfort.

Dropped arches have many causes. People suffering from obesity and arthritis are especially at risk. As one grows older, the tendons running along the ankles often weaken and this can also cause the arches to drop. Physical injuries to the foot can also cause these tendons to become inflamed and if it is not treated, the arches may drop. In many cases, however, people with dropped arches were born with the condition.

Unless somebody has suffered from dropped arches since birth, steps can be taken to prevent it from happening later on in life. One of the most important steps is to maintain a healthy weight. It is also vital to wear shoes that fit properly. Those participating in sport should wear the shoes that have been designed for that sport. Women should limit the number of times they wear high heels.

Dropped arches can cause discomfort and pain. However, sufferers can do much to relieve the effects of the symptoms. Exercise helps and simple precautions such as refraining to stand for long periods are also effective. Special shoe inserts that support the arch have been in use for decades. There is no risk involved in wearing them and they have proven to be extremely effective.




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