Custom Insoles for People with High Arches
High arches, otherwise known as cavus foot, may sound like a minor issue, but it truly does affect the whole of one’s overall foot health and comfort. Too high of an arch in the foot can lead to uneven weight distribution around the foot, causing a raft of problems that include pain, instability, and even chronic injuries. Custom insoles are not simply a frill or an afterthought for the person with high arches; for many, they are a necessity.
The Need for Support
High arches are related to different kinds of issues, including plantar fasciitis and metatarsalgia, or just common foot pain. The basic problem is that the arch does not drop far enough upon weight bearing, and, as such, shock absorption by the foot is very poor. This places extra pressure on the heel and ball of the foot, leading to eventual pain and discomfort in the feet, legs, and lower back.
Custom insoles are designed to provide both support and cushioning that high arches require. Contrary to the one-size-fits-all, generic insoles, custom insoles take the exact shape and constitution of your feet so that you get your support exactly at the level you need it. This type of personalization can help prevent the development of foot-related conditions or alleviate existing pain.
Benefits of Custom Insoles to High Arches
Increased Comfort: With custom insoles, increased comfort is one of the immediate benefits to be derived. Such insoles, which distribute equal pressure across the foot, reduce the pressure on the heel and ball of the foot and are especially useful for high-arched individuals.
Injury Prevention: Having high arches means that one can have an unstable gait, increasing the chances of ankle sprains or even other injuries. With custom insoles, the foot is able to become stable, making it easier to balance and hence reducing the chances of possible injuries that would otherwise arise from daily activities or even sports.
Improved Shock Absorption: Since high arches do not absorb shock naturally, added cushioning in custom insoles will help in absorbing the impact, thereby protecting the feet from the constant pounding they are subjected to every time a person is running or walking.
Improved Posture and Alignment: By setting your feet in the correct alignment, custom insoles help to improve posture. The better alignment reduces stress in areas such as the knees, hips, and lower back, resulting in improved overall body mechanics with less pain.
Finding the Right Custom Insoles
In choosing custom insoles for high arches, seek help from a professional who will determine your needs. There are companies like Ideastep that are into the production of custom insoles for a myriad of foot conditions, including high arches. Such professionals take precise measurements and use advanced materials to get insoles that perfectly fit the feet.
Some factors to consider in choosing custom insoles:
- Material: High-quality materials are to be sought that ensure durability and comfort. Foam, gel, and cork are popular materials that allow for different levels of support and cushioning.
- Arch Height: This ensures the insoles have enough support for high arches. Having too little of this may increase existing problems, but having too much can also cause discomfort.
- Cushioning: You may require more or less of it, based on your activity level. For example, runners will prefer an added cushioning to absorb shock, and people who are on their feet throughout the day may value support highly.
- Flexibility: This capacity of the insole to bend should be such that it is able to allow the movement of the foot in a natural way while producing the stipulated amount of support. Very stiff insoles are pretty uncomfortable and may not produce expected results.
Implementing Custom Insoles into Everyday Life
Wear them as much as possible, whether running daily, walking, going to work, or simply walking around the house, and the right level of support will be felt. In addition, it’s advisable to monitor how your feet feel over time. If you do encounter any discomfort or you notice changes in your condition, consult with a professional to see if adjustments to your insoles are necessary.
Equally important to the issue of having them is taking good care of your insoles to have them last. Keep them clean and dry, and replace them after they begin to wear out. Insoles may require replacement as often as every six months to a year, depending on the material and how much activity you engage in.
FAQ
Q: How do I know if I have high arches?
A: One easy test is to get your feet wet and step on a piece of paper. If there’s a pronounced curve between the ball and heel of your foot, you likely have high arches. A podiatrist can give you a better diagnosis.
Q: Can I use custom insoles in different shoes?
A: Yes, as long as the insoles fit properly into the shoes. However, some people like having multiple insoles for their different kinds of shoes.
Q: How long will custom insoles last?
A: If well taken care of, custom insoles can last for six months to a year. However, active individuals or people with specific conditions regarding their feet may need replacing more often.