Why Your Shoes May Require Arch Support Inserts For Flat Feet

By Deanne Shepard


Many people may have heard of people saying that they are flat footed. However, not everyone understands what that term means. When a person is afflicted with this condition, it is best taken care of by wearing arch support inserts for flat feet. These inserts can make this condition more bearable.

Flat footedness simply implies that the foot no longer has an arch in it. The foot can be completely flat, or have only a small amount of curvature in it, which does not allow it to support the body in the way it should. Wearing high heels or sandals can increase the likelihood that this will become a problem because these types of footwear do not have the support that is needed. While the feet adapt to the shoes, it is not uncommon for only one foot to be affected.

Issues with the arches can be exasperated from carrying excessive body weight. While younger people can also be afflicted, they generally do not have as much issues with the problem as older people do. This could change as they age.

While this problem can cause pain, it does not affect the usability of the feet. The pain is generally caused from the other areas of the foot having to compensate for the lack of arching. Unfortunately, this can affect other parts of the body as the legs and back are also affected. Balance can also become an issue as the feet are improperly aligned when they are not arched as they should be.

Arch supports allow the foot to better disperse the weight of the body. This helps the foot to step correctly, which in turn decreases the stress and pain on all parts of the body.

There are several options for obtaining arch supports for your shoes. Locally, you may be able to get them as a department or drug store. There are even websites online that offer these products. However, it is suggested that since no two people have the same shoe size and same step, this type of product would be best if it were specially made for each person. One option is to make an appointment to be measured by a podiatrist. It is recommended that the shoes you wear most often are taken along to the appointment with you.

While it is likely that any tennis shoe you buy will have an insole, it is not equal to having an arch support. The insoles that come with the shoes are for shock absorbing and comfort. However, when the person wearing the shoes requires extra foundation, these insoles are not going to deliver. While the support of new shoes is there in the beginning, it soon dissipates. In order to keep the support needed, you will need special inserts.

While not everyone has a problem with their arches, it is not uncommon. Everyday we walk on flat surfaces and this along with excess body weight and aging can attribute to problems in the feet. Purchasing personalized supports for the shoes is one sure way to help eliminate the problems that flat feet can cause in the back and legs. While new shoes can feel comfortable and supportive it is best to remember that they do not offer the same support that inserts ordered especially for you offers.




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