The Benefits Of Using Insoles For Flat Feet

By Rosella Campbell


Foot problems are common and many people suffer from chronic pain and discomfort. Most patients that seek help from podiatrists are women and these experts agree that the most common cause for these problems are the wearing of high heels or the wrong type of shoe. Fallen arches are also common. People suffering from this problem have very low or no arches at all. By wearing insoles for flat feet the discomfort can often be negated.

The symptoms of fallen arches differs from one person to the next but most sufferers experience foot pain and swollen ankles when they have to stand for a long time. Standing can also cause severe pain in the lower back. Patients are advised to avoid high impact exercises such as jogging because it will increase the symptoms. Sufferers find it very difficult to stand on their toes.

There is no cure for this condition. Podiatrists routinely recommend sufferers to try special soles that are designed to support the arches. The vast majority of sufferers benefit from these soles. They can be bought over the counter and in special cases a podiatrist can even order a custom made set if, for some reason, ready made products simply do not provide relief.

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.

Some surgeons have tried controversial surgery to restore the arches. During this procedure an incision is made along the side of the foot and an insert is placed in the ankle bones. This restores the arch. Many eminent podiatrists have warned against such surgery, however. There is a good chance that the procedure will fail, leaving the patient in excruciating pain.

There are many reasons why the arches drop. Some people are born that way and the arches simply never develop. Many older people develop the condition because the tendons along the ankles weakened. The cause can also be physical injuries that cause the tendons to become inflamed. Obese people and those suffering from arthritis are very likely to develop dropped arches.

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.

Wearing special shoe inserts designed to support the arches is risk free and is even beneficial for those not suffering from dropped arches. These inserts are economical because the can be transferred between different pairs of shoes. Pain and discomfort can be avoided by performing special exercises regularly and by avoiding situations where it is necessary to stand for long periods.




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