Why There are Different Types of Arch Support Inserts for Excess Pronation

There are three different kinds of arch support insoles to consider when you are looking to make an important decision for your feet’s health. Each of these has varying characteristics, and are used depending on your particular situation.:

1) Customized (rigid) insoles: These orthotic inserts are for patients with severe biomechanical disorders which are more severe than the general degree of excess pronation that most of us deal with. Custom-made, rigid arch support insoles are only available from a foot specialist (podiatrist). For instance, a minority of people deal with ‘supination’, which is the opposite to pronation. Their feet roll outwards or 'supinate', and the arch stays high and rigid when contacting the ground. This condition is known as a high-arched foot or cavus foot, and only affects 5% of the population. Supinators will need a custom-made orthotic that deals with this type of issue. Also, individuals with very large bunions, foot ulcers, foot deformities or totally flat feet must see a foot specialist. After preliminary diagnosis of flat feet, or any of the before mentioned conditions, the podiatrist will select the proper custom-made prescription orthotic. Subsequently, a negative-impression plaster cast of the patient's foot is prepared, and this cast is then delivered to an a specialized orthotic manufacturing lab. Using this cast, a positive cast is made by transferring plaster into the negative mold. The end product is an exact copy of the bottom of the foot. From this sample, the orthotic technician (orthotist) will make a custom orthotic, making the required adjustments, as instructed by the podiatrist. The end product is a rigid (or semi-rigid) orthotic device. Even though these devices are biomechanically correct, many patients find it extremely difficult adapting to them.

2) Heat-moldable insoles: Heat-moldable insoles are a more economical option to the costly custom insoles, which often cost several hundreds of dollars per pair. They are a standard, off-the-shelf, flexible apparatus made of medium-firm density E.V.A. material. The apparatus then can be heated up to slightly change its contour. Sometimes wedges are added for a more customized feel. Heat-moldable insoles cost around $100 to $140 and are a lot easier to get used to than custom rigid orthotics.

3) Off-the-shelf Orthotic Shoe Inserts: Off-the-shelf insoles are a soft-medium density insole, available from , online from specialist e-commerce sites, and also from some physiotherapists and chiropractors. Patients will get used to these orthotics almost immediately, and the cost varies from $30 to $50 per pair. Research shows that for 80% of individuals suffering from over pronation, an off-the-shelf arch support will provide enough relief of wear, these types of insoles will adjust to the patient’s foot shape, due to their body weight and body heat. The majority of pre-made arch support insoles are made of EVA, a supple but firm material that supports the foot without harming the arches. Children and the elderly will mainly benefit from a softer type of insole, since they aren’t tolerant of anything rigid beneath their feet.

It is always a intelligent choice to ask for the guidance of a physician prior to making this type of purchase. You must make sure you are making the right decision for your particular ailment.