A Guide To Arch Supports For Flat Feet

By Vicki Diaz


Many people with flat feet experience no problems because of it, although in some cases pain and discomfort can result. Some flat-footed people find that it affects the way they walk, causing pain in various parts of the feet, legs and back. As painkillers merely mask the problem, and surgery is a rather drastic and intrusive solution, many people are led to consider insoles or other arch supports for flat feet.

A range of symptoms can be experienced by the flat-footed, and many different insoles and arch (or instep) supports can be bought in shops. Professional advice will help you to discover which insole or arch support, if any, will be suitable, making sure that money is not wasted and that your condition is not worsened by a poor choice. Medical doctors, physiotherapists and podiatrists will all be able to give advice, while orthotists actually make insoles, which are also called "orthotics".

The most common cause of the condition is that the foot "rolls over", so that the inside of the foot rolls downwards, creating the impression of flatness. This rotation occurs at the ankle, with the result that the bones are not well positioned for walking. It can result in painful wear and tear, and the effects can be felt all the way up the leg and also in the back. Arch supports help keep the instep from falling, stopping this potentially damaging rotation.

While the term "flat feet" is self explanatory in describing the general shape seen in this condition, the exact nature of the problem must be diagnosed by a medical professional. Possible causes of the condition can vary, especially between child and adult cases.

In the very young, "baby fat" can effectively fill the instep, creating a flatter overall appearance. As the child grows, the correct shape and structure will usually be revealed. If children appear to walk with discomfort or pain, alongside the tell-tale signs of flatness, this could be the indication of a problem.

Adults can experience problems with the bones in the feet falling, as well as the previously described "rolling over" motion, at the ankle. Wear and tear due to age, as well as obesity or just overuse, can contribute to these causes.

Insoles which provide arch support are not just for those with the conditions described - anyone who experiences back, leg or foot pain might benefit from the extra support. Many different designs exist to cater for a range of conditions and personal tastes. Some insoles are more rigid, which is ideal for withstanding the weight placed on the foot while particularly active, while many people prefer a more cushioned insole. This extra cushioning and support can be very beneficial for alleviating the foot pain associated with the condition.

As can be seen, arch supporting insoles are well worth looking into for those with painful feet. Along with appropriate medical advice, insoles are affordable, eliminate the need for drugs, and can help avoid a serious operation, while the benefits of the extra cushioning and support can often be felt straight away. For these reasons, arch supports for flat feet are often the best thing to try.




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