Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Arch Support Inserts For Flat Feet May Be Just What You Need

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.

Those people suffering from this problem do not experience a lack of foot usability. Any pain is usually present because of the stress on the other parts of the foot. Pain can also be felt in the back and legs as they compensate for the way the foot is stepping. Since the feet are not properly aligned, balance can also become a problem.

Arch supports will allow a person to obtain a better disbursement of their weight and in turn become better balanced on their feet. Inserts will assure the proper step for the foot in order to allow the back and legs to not have to compensate thus decreasing any pain that a flat foot may create.

While it may be possible to obtain the arch supports needed at a local department store or even the internet, the best option is to personally be fitted for the supports. Two people may wear the same size of shoe, but it is very likely that their step and arches are completely different. One professional that can measure and offer a personal fit is a podiatrist. When making the visit to be measured, it is important to take along the shoes that are worn most often.

Most shoes come with insoles, however, these are not the same thing as arch supports. The regular insoles offer shock absorption and a bit of comfort, but not a lot of specialized support to the wearer. New shoes will feel supportive as first, but over time the insoles will fatten out. Having special supports inserted will help the foot stay supported.

Because we are walking on surfaces that are flat on a daily basis, flat arches are not a unique problem. This, coupled with aging and excessive body weight makes this a very common issue. By having supports made especially for your feet, you can help decrease the stress that is being put on your back and legs which, in turn, will help to decrease your pain. It is vital to remember that new shoes may feel great at first, they will soon wear down and not offer you much in the way of support after some time.




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