Made From The Molds Of Your Feet
Active
Designed for an active lifestyle.
Everyday
Designed for normal day-to-day use.
When you suffer from a condition known as flat feet, you will often have to worry about some of the pain and discomfort that is going to come from this condition. When the arch support starts to go out, you may notice that the tendon on the bottom of the foot will stretch and not work as well as before, and when it gets bad enough, this can affect your mobility.
Rather than dealing with the pain and hoping that it will go away, a better solution is for you to consider whether a pair of insoles with good arch support will be able to help you out. Let’s take a closer look at what flat feet are and some of the things you can consider before purchasing insoles with arch support to help.
What Is The Disorder Known As Flat Feet?
First, we need to take a look at the condition of flat feet. This is a condition of the foot where the arches on the inside of the feet are going to start to flatten out due to some of the pressure on them. When those with this condition are standing, the feet will point out and the entire sole of the feet can start to go down and touch the floor.
It is possible for this condition to begin developing during the childhood of the patient, though there are those who may experience it when they are older due to an injury or some of the wear and tear that comes with age. Proper care of the feet and considering some good arch supports could be the solution that you need.
The Symptoms Of Flat Feet
In many cases, this issue is not going to cause any pain and you will not need to seek out treatment if this is the case for you. However, some people who have this condition may notice that there is pain that accompanies it. This pain will often be felt in the arch or the heel area of the foot and it can get worse if you are active.
For some patients, it is possible to notice swelling along the inside of the ankle as well. If the pain gets bad enough that it is hard to move around often and doesn’t seem to get better, then it may be time to discuss the issue with your doctor.
Risk Factors of Having a Flat Foot
There are also a few risk factors that you should consider when it comes to flat feet. These are things that make it more likely that you will suffer from flat feet if you are not careful to avoid them. Some of these risk factors include:
- Aging
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Injury to the ankle or the foot
- Obesity
If you have one or more of these factors, you are more likely to have an issue with a flat foot and it is more likely to cause you pain as well. A good pair of arch support insoles for flat feet can help correct the condition.
What to Consider When Buying the Best Arch Supports for Flat Feet
Now that we know a bit more about flat feet and why it can be a problem, it is time to take a look at what to consider when picking out a pair of insoles that have the right arch support to support the flat feet in the first place. Arch support can be great for relieving the pain and pressure of flat feet, but you need to make sure that you are choosing the right one for you.
Some of the things to consider when picking out insoles for your flat feet include:
Consider Whether Your Feet Are Flexible or Rigid Before Wearing Custom Insoles
You may have flat feet, but are they flexible or rigid? If you have rigid feet, the foot will still appear flat if you place the foot over onto the opposite knee. However, if you have a flexible flat foot, then the arch will still appear when you do this same action. The one you have will determine the type of arch support you need.
For patients who have rigid flat feet, you need to go with a low arch height to provide some support, but not too much. For flexible flat feet, you should choose more of a medium arch height for the best comfort.
Understand the Characteristics of a Good Custom Insole for Flat Feet
Flat feet, medically known as pes planus, can cause a world of discomfort. The natural arch of the foot flattens against the ground, impacting everything from balance to how your leg absorbs shock. This can lead to pain in the feet, ankles, knees, and even your lower back.
Custom insoles are a game-changer for those with flat feet. Unlike generic drugstore insoles, custom orthotics are crafted specifically for your unique foot shape and needs. A podiatrist will assess your feet, including your gait and any pressure points, to design insoles that provide the right level of support.
Here's what to look for in a good custom insole for flat feet:
- Arch Support: Forget the myth that flat feet need sky-high arches. Custom insoles will have a low to moderate arch that gently cradles and lifts your arch, promoting proper alignment and reducing strain.
- Heel Cup: A deep heel cup is crucial for flat feet. It stabilizes the heel bone and prevents excessive inward rolling (pronation) during walking or running.
- Material Matters: Custom insoles are typically made from high-quality, durable materials that provide both support and cushioning. Look for breathable materials that wick away moisture and keep your feet comfortable.
With proper support from custom insoles, people with flat feet can experience significant pain relief, improved balance, and better overall foot health. If you're struggling with flat feet, consulting a podiatrist to discuss custom insoles is an investment in your long-term comfort and mobility.
Bilt Labs Custom Orthotics
Flat feet can throw your whole body out of whack. The natural arch collapses, impacting everything from balance to how your legs absorb shock. This can lead to a domino effect of pain in your feet, ankles, knees, and even your lower back.
Thankfully, Bilt Labs custom orthotics can be your flat feet's best friend. Unlike generic insoles, Bilt Labs uses a cutting-edge 3D scanning process to create orthotics tailored specifically to your feet. Here's how they can help:
- Precision Arch Support: Bilt Labs ditches the one-size-fits-all approach. By analyzing your unique foot shape and pressure points, they create custom insoles with the perfect amount of arch support. This gentle lift helps restore proper alignment, reducing strain and promoting better balance.
- Combating Pronation: Flat feet often lead to excessive inward rolling of the foot (pronation). Bilt Labs orthotics incorporate strategically placed features like medial wedges. These wedges act like gentle guides, subtly counteracting pronation and stabilizing your foot with every step.
- Comfort and Durability: Bilt Labs uses high-quality, medical-grade materials to craft their orthotics. This ensures a comfortable fit that can withstand daily wear and tear. Plus, the breathable materials help keep your feet cool and dry.
Bilt Labs custom orthotics go beyond just arch support. They address the specific needs of your flat feet, providing targeted pain relief and preventing further issues. Imagine walking with newfound confidence, free from the discomfort caused by flat feet. Bilt Labs custom orthotics can help make that a reality.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the "best" arch support for flat feet depends on your individual needs and activity level. While generic insoles can offer some relief, custom orthotics provide the most targeted support and long-term benefits. Consider consulting a podiatrist to discuss custom orthotics if you experience persistent pain or discomfort related to flat feet. Remember, healthy feet are the foundation for a healthy you, so invest in the support that keeps you moving comfortably. Take our free quiz today to find out which orthotic type is best for your feet.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions about your health. If you have any questions about your health or are experiencing any medical problems, please contact your doctor or other healthcare provider immediately. Do not delay seeking medical attention based on the information provided in this article.
