Appliances
Arch Support
An appliance shaped in a manner to provide underside support to the feet.
Custom orthotics (see Orthotic inserts)
Insoles
Insoles (sometimes called shoe inserts) are sold at shoe stores and general merchandise stores.
They are designed to add padding and increase comfort.
Silicone Cushions
offer relief for sore, aching heels absorbs foot shock
Over-the-counter (or ready made) orthotics
shoe insert that has some arch and/or heel support
Orthotics
Custom-made devices to support or supplement weakened or abnormal joints or limbs
Orthotic Inserts
Also known as custom orthotic insoles, foot orthotics, etc.
Features to look for when buying shoes
Flexion stability
Shoes should bend at the ball of the foot, not in the middle.
Flat, lightweight shoes
Ample room for foot
Shoes with ample room so your toes can wiggle. Best to have shoes with laces or Velcro® strap to hold the shoes on. Avoid slippers, loafers, or "pumps" since they must grip the front of the foot in order to stay on.
Length of Shoe
Shoes that are long enough. When standing, your big toe should not touch the front of the shoe.
Heel Counter
A rigid cup that is built into a shoe for the purpose of increasing support.
A firm heel counter controls and stabilizes the heel and reduces excessive pronation.
Heel needs to stay in touch with the sole of the shoe, otherwise there is too much tension on the plantar fascia. Avoid flip-flops and backless sandals.
Foot Conditions
Plantar Fascia
The tissue along the bottom of your foot that connects your heel bone to your toes.
Plantar Fasciitis
Painful partial tearing of the plantar fascia. You feel a severe stabbing pain in your heel.
The most frequest cause is an abnormal motion of the foot called excessive pronation.
Hallux Valgus
A bunion (hallux valgus) is a structural deformity of the bones and the joint between the foot and big toe, frequently painful.
Pronation
To turn or rotate your foot so that the inner edge of the sole bears the body's weight
Pronation refers to the inward roll of the foot during normal motion and occurs as the
outer edge of the heel strikes the ground and the foot rolls inward and flatend out.
Excessive pronation
If your foot flattens or becomes unstable while walking or running,
the attachment of the plantar fascia into your heel bone may begin to stretch
and pull away from the heel bone.
One of the most common causes of foot and leg discomfort.
