Everything You Need To Know About Rigid and Soft!

Did you know that there are two types of custom orthotics: stiff and soft? Read our most recent article to discover more about the differences between the two types and which one could be best for you.

 

101 Custom Orthotic Orthotics: Rigid vs. Soft

There are numerous types of orthotics available, and you may be unsure which is right for you. Well, stiff orthotics and soft orthotics are the two primary types of orthotics that can aid with your discomfort or ailment. Let’s take a look at each one individually to see how they work.

Custom orthotics are categorised as hard or soft in order to provide relief for various foot ailments. The stiffness of the device is determined by the type of material utilized. While stiff orthotics provide greater stability and support than softer alternatives, they are also less comfortable because they require a break-in period to get acclimated to. Softer EVA foam choices, on the other hand, are more flexible since they flex and bend with your feet, rather than being stiff and solid like hard plastic, but they may not be suitable for those with specific conditions.

Orthotics that are rigid and custom-made

Rigid orthotics are usually made of hard plastic. These varieties, for example, are ideal for people with plantar fasciitis and flat feet since they provide vital arch support. They’re made to relieve foot, leg, thigh, and lower back discomfort by sitting flush against your feet and relieving the pressure. If you have Achilles tendonitis and your heels are always inflamed, for example, custom orthotics can assist support the middle of your foot and relieve stress on that area.

You’ll need some time to acclimate to them at first because they’re much more solid than softer options. The good news is that your body adjusts to the support and they become fairly comfortable after a while.

Soft orthotics made to order

Soft orthotics are not the same as hard orthotics. They’re usually constructed of EVA and can help a lot with unpleasant or irritated regions by relieving pressure. They fit quite close to your feet, alleviating pain and suffering, because they’re softer than rigid choices. Soft orthotics, for example, are frequently advised for patients who suffer from heel discomfort because they adapt to the affected areas, cushioning the pain while also giving additional arch support.

These are particularly perfect for high-impact sports where your foot moves quickly, such as running, basketball, and soccer, because they’re more flexible. Many sportsmen claim that wearing these types of EVA orthotics reduced pain and suffering both during and after the workout.

What is the best option for you?

The good thing about bespoke orthotics is that you don’t have to pick them yourself. Our skilled podiatrists choose the right blend of stiffrigid and softcushiony materials to meet your taste and demands when creating custom orthotics at IDEASTEP. As a result, you’ll always have just the perfect amount of help and flexibility.

They also include unique structural features, such as a metatarsal pad or dome under the balls of your feet, a built-in heel lift, heel or forefoot padding, and so on. These ensure that your personalized orthotics provide you with even more relief and comfort.

Do you have any queries concerning the differences between rigid and soft orthotics? Our experts will be delighted to assist you. Please let us know in the comments section below, or join our Facebook Foot Pain Community.