What is overpronation?
Whether you are walking, running, skipping, or jumping, your foot pronates. Pronation is the way your foot rolls inwards towards the midline whenever weight is placed on it. It is a natural motion that helps to stabilize your movements and it can vary in magnitude between different people.
When a foot overpronates, it either rolls inwards excessively or at an abnormal time during the gait cycle. This disproportionate amount of pronation leads to the collapse of the foot’s arch and a flattening of the foot overall. The muscles and ligaments that normally work to keep your foot in a neutral position can become fatigued if the foot is not appropriately supported and overpronation is not addressed.
Off-the-shelf insoles
Off-the-shelf insoles are devices placed on the inside of shoes that aid in distributing weight more evenly along the bottom of the foot. Most off-the-shelf insoles are aimed at preventing overpronation. They are designed to support the arch as well as provide cushioning to the forefoot and heel—areas that often undergo a higher amount of pressure. Non-custom insoles can be made of a variety of materials, including gel, foam, and others. They do not require a prescription to purchase and are relatively cheaper than custom orthotics.
Custom orthotics
Orthotics are similar to off-the-shelf insoles in that they are also employed to support the foot and relieve pressure. What sets them apart is that they are custom-made. After an in-depth assessment of your feet, a podiatrist may prescribe custom orthotics tailored to treat your specific condition. These medical devices are constructed based on a three-dimensional mold or scan of your feet; thus, ensuring the best fit possible.
Another key difference between orthotics and non-custom insoles is the range of conditions orthotics can be used to correct. In addition to overpronation, custom orthotics can also be prescribed for conditions such as plantar fasciitis, corns, or over supination. Whether you require additional support on the medial or lateral side of the foot, a custom orthotic can be made to fit your specific needs.
Comment below with any questions or concerns you may have about overpronation and orthotics! We would love to hear from you. You can also reach us at docpods.com.au.