FAQ

Questions and answers

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How do I know if I need custom insoles?

Footbeds and insoles specially formed for you support your feet in the proper, neutral position. This is crucial for people who over- or under- pronate, and can help those with re-curing foot, ankle or knee pain related to conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Morton’s neuroma or runner’s knee, among others. Studies have shown that proper support underfoot can help prevent the progression of over- and under- pronation while offering relief from pain associated with foot, ankle and knee strains and injuries.

But you can still benefit from custom footbeds even without acute foot problems or if you have a neutral foot type! Custom insoles add a perfect, custom fit and all-day comfort to all types of footwear. If you spend many hours of your day on your feet, custom support underfoot can help keep your feet and lower back from tiring as easily. Good support for the feet has benefits across your body’s entire kinetic chain, encouraging good alignment from your feet and legs up through your whole spine.

If you’re still unsure, or want to know more about your foot type, it’s an excellent idea to get a foot or gait analysis. These are offered at a variety of sport shops, as well as by many physical therapists, athletic trainers, coaches and doctors.

What is the most common type of foot malposition?

Overpronation is by far the most common foot malposition. With overpronation, the foot rotates too far medially (inwards) while walking. Overpronation may be detected by pronounced wear on the instep side of shoe heels. With overpronation, the heel bone (calcaneus) rotates inwards; the longitudinal arch is lowered; the leg, thigh bone (femur) and hip rotate inwards; and anterior tilting of the pelvis results. The most common adverse effects of this are plantar fasciitis and inflammation, metatarsal pain, problems with the Achilles tendon, distemper, pain on the inside of the knee, and bursitis in the hip.

At what age can you get customized insoles?

We recommend Footbalance insoles for people age ten and up. Before the age of ten a child’s gait and feet are still developing. After that a person’s gait reaches a point in its development after which no significant changes occur.

Are there any possible adverse side-effects from wearing Footbalance insoles?

If made and used properly – no. When made to your anatomical arch, in the neutral position, Footbalance insoles do not cause harm. They may cause discomfort at first because their body needs to adjust to their new alignment and muscles which may have been on holiday.

Be sure to follow the instructions and start wearing the insoles gradually. To start with, wear the insoles only for a few hours a day, gradually increasing the time worn by a few hours each day. Don’t wear them right away for intense exercise, but start by walking, after which you can gradually move on to running and other strenuous exercise. Once you are accustomed to the insoles, you can – and should – use them as much as possible.