How to Choose the Right Arch Support Insoles for Your Flat Feet

In general terms, there are 3 different styles of orthotic shoe inserts to choose from when you are looking to make a smart investment in your feet. Each of these variants has varying features, and are used depending on your particular condition.:1) Custom-made (rigid) arch supports: These orthotic shoe inserts are for individuals with serious biomechanical disorders that are more intense than the common degree of over-pronation that many of us suffer from. Custom-made, rigid orthotic shoe inserts are only available from a podiatrist. For instance, a minority of people deal with ‘supination’, which is the contrary to pronation. Their feet roll outwards or 'supinate', and the arch remains high and firm when contacting the ground. This is called a cavus foot or high-arched foot, and only affects 5 percent of the world’s population. Supinators will need a custom-made orthotic that corrects this type of problem. Additionally, patients with very large bunions, foot ulcers, foot deformities or entirely flat feet should see a foot specialist. After preliminary diagnosis of flat feet, or any of the above mentioned problems, the podiatrist will choose a custom-made prescription orthotic. Next, a plaster cast with a negative impression of the person’s feet is made, and this cast is then shipped to an a special laboratory for manufacturing orthotics. Using this cast, a positive cast is formed by transferring plaster into the negative mold. The end product is an exact copy of the base of the foot. From this model, the orthotist (orthotics technician) will create a custom-made orthotic, including the required adjustments, as requested by the podiatrist. The end product is a rigid (or semi-rigid) orthotic device. Even though these devices are biomechanically correct, many individuals find it extremely challenging getting used to them them. 2) Heat-moldable arch supports: Heat-moldable arch supports are a less expensive option to the expensive custom-made arch supports, which often cost $300 - $600 per pair. They are a standard, off-the-shelf, flexible device made of medium-firm density E.V.A. material. The device then can be warmed to slightly change its shape. On occasion 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-made rigid orthotics.3) Prefabricated Orthotic Insoles: Prefabricated arch supports are a soft-medium density insole, available from drug stores, online from specialized websites, and also from some physiotherapists and chiropractors. Patients will get used to these orthotics almost immediately, and the cost can be from $30 to $50 per pair. Research shows that for 80% of patients afflicted with over-pronation, a pre-made insole will offer enough relief of wearing them, these types of insoles will adjust to the individual’s foot shape, due to their body weight and body heat. Most prefabricated orthotic shoe inserts are made of EVA, a pliable but firm product that supports the foot without damaging the arches. Children and the elderly will in particular benefit from a flexible type of orthotic, since they tend to be less tolerant of anything hard beneath their feet.It is always a intelligent choice to ask for the opinion of a physician before making this type of decision. You must be sure you are making the most appropriate selection for your particular situation.