Run Run Away » asics running » Orthotics
Orthotics
Question:
You can find general (cushioning, support, etc…) at you local soprts shop at about 20-40$; custom ones (made by a podiatrist after taking your feet print) cost more, but I don’t know if they can reach 400$. My custom ones costed about 100$ (but I’m writing from Italy). For more information, you can take a look at http://www.runnersworld.com There’s actually published an interesting overview on the different tipes and brands. Ciao. Alex.
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – How much do orthotics cost? Are they always $400? Perry White What in thundering tarnation?!?!? (and don’t call me "Chief")
Response:
They haven’t bothered me at all yet – I’ve ran another 5 miles this morning and will be running another 7-8 tonight in them. Currently I’m just wearing them beneath my regular shoe inserts. They would have put a foam thing on them but these also have to fit into my cross-country spikes which are much narrower. Eventually I’l probably just have to get two sets. If I can get my insurance to cover some of the cost, that might be an option. -jeff — Jeffrey Bigham http://www.jeffreybigham.com
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I found my first pair of good walking orthodics from a similar small lab. Once you have the hard element tweaked, ask them to put a foam poly-something-or-other covering (the type you can buy as shoe inserts). It helps minimize slippage while adding extra cushion. If in a pinch you can also put the orthodic under an insert… I’ve done that with past orthotics during a run where they were bothering me just a bit. I would not advise running 8 o’clock day one like you did. It does take a while to get used to them, although it shouldn’t take as long as some bad podiatrists will claim it takes. It is a huge biomechanical change that repositions ankles, knees, hips and spine. You were lucky. You could have finished the run with a major backache. It sounds like you’re on the right track. Best wishes with your running. Z. Thanks for the reply. It seems that I may have lucked out. The people I went to weren’t actual podiatrists but specialize in actually making the orthotics. They examined me, watched me walk a bit, had me walk over carbon like stuff to see how my foot fell, and made a cast of my foot in foam stuff. Then they told me to come back in an hour when the orthotic would be mostly finished. I went and came back and they were done. I tried them on and although they felt almost correct their were a couple of places that didn’t feel exactly right. They spent almost another hour with me perfecting them. That same day I wore them in a 12 mile run at about 6:10 pace and, although they felt strange, they seemed to fit fine. Tonight I’ll try them in my racing shoes. I have a follow-up appointment this Monday to tweak them again and then I can come back for another 6 months if they ever get out of whack. -jeff PS…the place i went to was called Clark’s Orthotics in Reynoldsburg, OH. — Jeffrey Bigham http://www.jeffreybigham.com Having worn and run with orthotics for well over 15 years, it all depends how well the orthotic was fitted to your foot, the amount of pronation, and padding fitted over the orthotic. Unfortunately, the biomechanical art of podiatry is still in the dark ages. Most (80%) podiatrists do not have a clue, especially about proper casting. I suffered high arch that fell and have had many heated discussions with podiatrists who refused to give me the support my feet required because their education taught them how "every orthotic should be cast." Unimaginative boneheads. After purchasing and being unsatisfied with nearly eight sets of orthotics (at $400 /) I wrote the President of Langer Labs and was eventually cast by a Dr. Wernick who was one of the company’s founders and is a board member. He did a stellar job of analyzing what was wrong with my other orthotics, did a standing cast of my feet and then modified the finished product extensively when it still failed to fully perform. Now I’ve been able to increase my mileage steadily for the first time since I was in High School. Don’t give up on orthotics or running: find the right doctor who can build you the correct device for your feet. Good luck! Dr. Wernick can be reached through Eneslow 212-477-2300 Fax: 212-477-2156 Eneslow, 924 Broadway, NY, NY 10010-6007 After about 4 years of resisting, I have decided to start wearing orthotics – or rather my aching, fallen arches have decided that for me. Now my question is, with cross-country season seriously starting in about 2 weeks, how long should I expect it to take until I become used to these inserts? How much will they affect me until then? -jeff — Jeffrey Bigham http://www.jeffreybigham.com
Response:
That same day I wore them in a 12 mile run at about 6:10 pace and, although they felt strange, they seemed to fit fine. Tonight I’ll try them in my racing shoes. I have a follow-up appointment this Monday to tweak them again and then I can come back for another 6 months if they ever get out of whack. -jeff PS…the place i went to was called Clark’s Orthotics in Reynoldsburg, OH.
You may have lucked out, but be careful of wearing new orthotics for such a long run. You could create injuries for yourself that way, especially lower leg injuries. C
Response:
I found my first pair of good walking orthodics from a similar small lab. Once you have the hard element tweaked, ask them to put a foam poly-something-or-other covering (the type you can buy as shoe inserts). It helps minimize slippage while adding extra cushion. If in a pinch you can also put the orthodic under an insert… I’ve done that with past orthotics during a run where they were bothering me just a bit. I would not advise running 8 o’clock day one like you did. It does take a while to get used to them, although it shouldn’t take as long as some bad podiatrists will claim it takes. It is a huge biomechanical change that repositions ankles, knees, hips and spine. You were lucky. You could have finished the run with a major backache. It sounds like you’re on the right track. Best wishes with your running. Z.
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thanks for the reply. It seems that I may have lucked out. The people I went to weren’t actual podiatrists but specialize in actually making the orthotics. They examined me, watched me walk a bit, had me walk over carbon like stuff to see how my foot fell, and made a cast of my foot in foam stuff. Then they told me to come back in an hour when the orthotic would be mostly finished. I went and came back and they were done. I tried them on and although they felt almost correct their were a couple of places that didn’t feel exactly right. They spent almost another hour with me perfecting them. That same day I wore them in a 12 mile run at about 6:10 pace and, although they felt strange, they seemed to fit fine. Tonight I’ll try them in my racing shoes. I have a follow-up appointment this Monday to tweak them again and then I can come back for another 6 months if they ever get out of whack. -jeff PS…the place i went to was called Clark’s Orthotics in Reynoldsburg, OH. — Jeffrey Bigham http://www.jeffreybigham.com Having worn and run with orthotics for well over 15 years, it all depends how well the orthotic was fitted to your foot, the amount of pronation, and padding fitted over the orthotic. Unfortunately, the biomechanical art of podiatry is still in the dark ages. Most (80%) podiatrists do not have a clue, especially about proper casting. I suffered high arch that fell and have had many heated discussions with podiatrists who refused to give me the support my feet required because their education taught them how "every orthotic should be cast." Unimaginative boneheads. After purchasing and being unsatisfied with nearly eight sets of orthotics (at $400 /) I wrote the President of Langer Labs and was eventually cast by a Dr. Wernick who was one of the company’s founders and is a board member. He did a stellar job of analyzing what was wrong with my other orthotics, did a standing cast of my feet and then modified the finished product extensively when it still failed to fully perform. Now I’ve been able to increase my mileage steadily for the first time since I was in High School. Don’t give up on orthotics or running: find the right doctor who can build you the correct device for your feet. Good luck! Dr. Wernick can be reached through Eneslow 212-477-2300 Fax: 212-477-2156 Eneslow, 924 Broadway, NY, NY 10010-6007 After about 4 years of resisting, I have decided to start wearing orthotics – or rather my aching, fallen arches have decided that for me. Now my question is, with cross-country season seriously starting in about 2 weeks, how long should I expect it to take until I become used to these inserts? How much will they affect me until then? -jeff — Jeffrey Bigham http://www.jeffreybigham.com
Response:
Having worn and run with orthotics for well over 15 years, it all depends how well the orthotic was fitted to your foot, the amount of pronation, and padding fitted over the orthotic. Unfortunately, the biomechanical art of podiatry is still in the dark ages. Most (80%) podiatrists do not have a clue, especially about proper casting. I suffered high arch that fell and have had many heated discussions with podiatrists who refused to give me the support my feet required because their education taught them how "every orthotic should be cast." Unimaginative boneheads. After purchasing and being unsatisfied with nearly eight sets of orthotics (at $400 /) I wrote the President of Langer Labs and was eventually cast by a Dr. Wernick who was one of the company’s founders and is a board member. He did a stellar job of analyzing what was wrong with my other orthotics, did a standing cast of my feet and then modified the finished product extensively when it still failed to fully perform. Now I’ve been able to increase my mileage steadily for the first time since I was in High School. Don’t give up on orthotics or running: find the right doctor who can build you the correct device for your feet. Good luck! Dr. Wernick can be reached through Eneslow 212-477-2300 Fax: 212-477-2156 Eneslow, 924 Broadway, NY, NY 10010-6007
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – After about 4 years of resisting, I have decided to start wearing orthotics – or rather my aching, fallen arches have decided that for me. Now my question is, with cross-country season seriously starting in about 2 weeks, how long should I expect it to take until I become used to these inserts? How much will they affect me until then? -jeff — Jeffrey Bigham http://www.jeffreybigham.com
Response:
Thanks for the reply. It seems that I may have lucked out. The people I went to weren’t actual podiatrists but specialize in actually making the orthotics. They examined me, watched me walk a bit, had me walk over carbon like stuff to see how my foot fell, and made a cast of my foot in foam stuff. Then they told me to come back in an hour when the orthotic would be mostly finished. I went and came back and they were done. I tried them on and although they felt almost correct their were a couple of places that didn’t feel exactly right. They spent almost another hour with me perfecting them. That same day I wore them in a 12 mile run at about 6:10 pace and, although they felt strange, they seemed to fit fine. Tonight I’ll try them in my racing shoes. I have a follow-up appointment this Monday to tweak them again and then I can come back for another 6 months if they ever get out of whack. -jeff PS…the place i went to was called Clark’s Orthotics in Reynoldsburg, OH. — Jeffrey Bigham http://www.jeffreybigham.com
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Having worn and run with orthotics for well over 15 years, it all depends how well the orthotic was fitted to your foot, the amount of pronation, and padding fitted over the orthotic. Unfortunately, the biomechanical art of podiatry is still in the dark ages. Most (80%) podiatrists do not have a clue, especially about proper casting. I suffered high arch that fell and have had many heated discussions with podiatrists who refused to give me the support my feet required because their education taught them how "every orthotic should be cast." Unimaginative boneheads. After purchasing and being unsatisfied with nearly eight sets of orthotics (at $400 /) I wrote the President of Langer Labs and was eventually cast by a Dr. Wernick who was one of the company’s founders and is a board member. He did a stellar job of analyzing what was wrong with my other orthotics, did a standing cast of my feet and then modified the finished product extensively when it still failed to fully perform. Now I’ve been able to increase my mileage steadily for the first time since I was in High School. Don’t give up on orthotics or running: find the right doctor who can build you the correct device for your feet. Good luck! Dr. Wernick can be reached through Eneslow 212-477-2300 Fax: 212-477-2156 Eneslow, 924 Broadway, NY, NY 10010-6007 After about 4 years of resisting, I have decided to start wearing orthotics – or rather my aching, fallen arches have decided that for me. Now my question is, with cross-country season seriously starting in about 2 weeks, how long should I expect it to take until I become used to these inserts? How much will they affect me until then? -jeff — Jeffrey Bigham http://www.jeffreybigham.com
Response:
After about 4 years of resisting, I have decided to start wearing orthotics – or rather my aching, fallen arches have decided that for me. Now my question is, with cross-country season seriously starting in about 2 weeks, how long should I expect it to take until I become used to these inserts? How much will they affect me until then? -jeff — Jeffrey Bigham http://www.jeffreybigham.com
Response:
[I only got my orthotics 5 months ago. But I can hardly remember these specifics.....] I think it took me about 3 weeks before I could wear them the entire day. I didn’t start running in them until I could wear them with comfort the entire day. My podiatrist suggested that you structure the first few runs so you can take them out easily: either bring a fanny pack along and remove them if they hurt or do a very short loop multiple times so you can "drop them off" if you need to. I didn’t have any troubles. Jim – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – After about 4 years of resisting, I have decided to start wearing orthotics – or rather my aching, fallen arches have decided that for me. Now my question is, with cross-country season seriously starting in about 2 weeks, how long should I expect it to take until I become used to these inserts? How much will they affect me until then? -jeff — Jeffrey Bigham http://www.jeffreybigham.com
Response:
What’s new in orthotics? Anything exciting that’s worth looking into? I’m willing to pay more if something will make a difference. My old bones need all the help they can get. Does anyone know a doctor near Pasadena, or in SoCal generally, who is good with runners/triathletes? I got my current pair of orthotics 6 years ago to treat plantars fascitis and they are showing signs of age. I’m 40, 6′1", 170, run track (400m-1500m) and triathlons (5k-10K of running), have completely flat feet, and overpronate pretty badly. I train for and race in triathlons in trainers (my current favorites are Avia Meridians) with orthotics and race track in spikes (without orthotics, of course). I’m more naturally a sprinter (ex-basketball, football, soccer, etc…) but can’t maintain decent speed and cycle too, so I’m trying to get better at longer distances. I can compete at elite masters levels in cycling time trials and want to move up to that level in track and triathlons (eg. I think I have a shot at, say, breaking 2:00 in the 800m.) Thanks for your help.
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(John Doyle) says: -Does anyone know a doctor near Pasadena, or in SoCal generally, who is -goodwith runners/triathletes? -I got my current pair of orthotics 6 years ago to treat plantars Try John Pagliano in Long Beach, CA. Former Olympic athlete and World Class Podiatrist. If he is too far call his office and ask for a referral. Steve
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I went to a D.P.M. who recommended orthotics. My problem is that he had his nurse have me stand in a Styrofoam bed for the casting. I been told that this is not the proper way to do this. Since I learned this I had him hold up till more information was had. I live in South Jersey If this is wrong, then any advice on where to go?
Response:
I went to a D.P.M. who recommended orthotics. My problem is that he had his nurse have me stand in a Styrofoam bed for the casting. I been told that this is not the proper way to do this. Since I learned this I had him hold up till more information was had. I live in South Jersey If this is wrong, then any advice on where to go?
I once had orthotics made by the styrofoam bed-casting procedure. In a word, they SUCKED. I am not DPM or anything of the sort, but they did not help my PF problem at all. Now, I have keen carbon-fibre orthotics made by the normal plaster-casting procedure, and they’re helping me 1000% more than my priors. -Andrew
Response:
I got my custom orthotics yesterday and went out for a run in them today but had to stop halfway through the run ‘cos of knee pain in my right knee and my left calf hurting. The orthotics were prescribed to counter excessive roll in my right foot causing lateral knee stress. Will it take time for my body to adjsust to running in orthotics ? Is the pain due to the new running position ? Anyone had a similar experience. Abdallah "Was in shape – trying to run in good form".
Response:
I got my custom orthotics yesterday and went out for a run in them today but had to stop halfway through the run ‘cos of knee pain in my right knee and my left calf hurting. The orthotics were prescribed to counter excessive roll in my right foot causing lateral knee stress.
Whoever made your orthotics should have advised you about a break-in period. My therapist suggested graduated usage over the course of a week. It started with wearing them a couple of hours the first day, increasing to 8 hours after 7 days. I was advised not to run with them until I’d worn them for ordinary activities for at least 1 week. Will it take time for my body to adjsust to running in orthotics ?
From my personal experience … Yes. Is the pain due to the new running position ?
Probably. Hope this helps, Keith — Technology Service Corp. | Fax: (423) 692 – 1284 (call first) Bloomington, IN | WWW: http://www.tsc.com/css —
Response:
Also, your orthotics may require adjustments to work correctly for you. — Ray Charbonneau R107 – End User Computing The MITRE Corporation – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I got my custom orthotics yesterday and went out for a run in them today but had to stop halfway through the run ‘cos of knee pain in my right knee and my left calf hurting. The orthotics were prescribed to counter excessive roll in my right foot causing lateral knee stress. Whoever made your orthotics should have advised you about a break-in period. My therapist suggested graduated usage over the course of a week. It started with wearing them a couple of hours the first day, increasing to 8 hours after 7 days. I was advised not to run with them until I’d worn them for ordinary activities for at least 1 week. Will it take time for my body to adjsust to running in orthotics ? From my personal experience … Yes. Is the pain due to the new running position ? Probably.
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I have been wearing orthortics for about 2 months now. Is it safe to wear them for racing? David
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I have been wearing orthortics for about 2 months now. Is it safe to wear them for racing?
It depends on what kind of orthotics they are. By orthotics, do you mean custom made orthotics fit specially to you (and if so, what material[s] are they made of) or drugstore ones? Personally, I wear some custom ones made out of carbon-fiber and they’ve saved my feet. I have to wear them when I race! -Andrew
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I have been wearing orthortics for about 2 months now. Is it safe to wear them for racing?
David, If you’re referring to orthotics that have been prescribed by a podiatrist and custom-molded to your feet….the answer is yes. In fact, you probably need them MORE when you are running because the misalignment they correct is being exaggerated. Just make sure that the podiatrist who prescribed them knows that you intend to use them while running. He will prescribe that they be constructed with a suitably durable material. cheers, Ken __ KenTech Digital Racing Clocks and Timers http://www.pobox.com/~kentech
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I have been wearing orthortics for about 2 months now. Is it safe to wear them for racing? David, If you’re referring to orthotics that have been prescribed by a podiatrist and custom-molded to your feet….the answer is yes. In fact, you probably need them MORE when you are running because the misalignment they correct is being exaggerated.
I wear orthotics for plantar fasciitis and strongly agree with the need to wear them while racing since you are placing greater stress on the condition being corrected. What orthotics will probably limit is your use of those nice light racing shoes you see much of your competiton wearing. Appropriate shoe selection can save a lot of long-term misery Paul.
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I have been wearing orthortics for about 2 months now. Is it safe to wear them for racing?
As other have said, not only safe, but probably essential. Unless the orthotics make only a minor correction, then running without them will feel extremely odd. I used to wear orthotics which made such correction that they seemed at first like walking on stilts. Even so, I used them in racing flats and spikes (for cross-country). Best regards, Jon Campbell — Jonathan G Campbell Univ. Ulster Magee College Derry BT48 7JL N. Ireland
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1. I’ve been running in orthotics since 1985. They have been part of the best and worst runs, PR’s and injuries, etc. all during that time. Without them, I’d be at best overweight and neurotic, and at worst, dead. 2.I could go on extensively about these things, but essentially I’ve had to learn through trial and error… your experience will be as unique as your feet and your running style, but a few things probably will hold true for everybody. 3. Get them fitted by a professional, preferably a physical therapist, doctor, and/or trainer WHO UNDERSTANDS WHAT RUNNING IS ABOUT. Runners will mentally conceive orthotics that meet the needs of runners. Non-runners, no matter what they may tell you, will have a hard time designing orthotics that meet all your needs, which will include running on hard and soft surfaces, hills and flats, tracks, as well as the peculiarities of how your feet bend, strike, roll, toe-off, etc. 4. Try to find a professional who MAKES THE ORTHOTICS THEMSELVES out of substantial, proven materials. Others will send your cast and measurements off to a lab where they will be made by someone who has never seen your feet or seen you run. My first two pairs were made by labs. They cracked repeatedly, the lab was slow at repairing them (despite a service agreement), and were stiff and hard to move in. And it wasn’t until I found a local (certified) trainer that made their own orthotics that I got the flexibility and adjustments I needed. The labs are good at what they do… but it doesn’t include being able to see you. They just read numbers off of an order sheet. 5. Don’t be afraid to pay for the right thing when you find it. Good orthotics cost only 2 to 3 times what a pair of good running shoes costs, will outlast 5 or more pairs (3 to 5 years?) and will do far more for your durability and running style. As the running population ages, I’m convinced that orthotics will become much more widespread, and improve drastically in quality (as running shoes did from the 1960’s to the present). If your legs are telling you it’s time, then it’s time. Don’t kid yourself. Clint Morrison "Controversy equalizes fools and wise men Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.
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I used to wear orthotics which made such correction that they seemed at first
like walking on stilts. Even so, I used them in racing flats and spikes (for cross-country). Jon Campbell .
Jon, You said: "I USED to wear orthonics". Are you STILL wearing them for races and/or marathons? I’ve just gotten orthonics due to A. Tendonitis, and I’m trying to figure out if these are a lifelong thing or if I can get rid of them eventually. Paul I used to wear orthotics which made such correction that they seemed at first like walking on stilts. Even so, I used them in racing flats and spikes (for cross-country). Best regards, Jon Campbell
/ / - -::@darwin<<-<-<-< ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I used to wear orthotics which made such correction that they seemed at first like walking on stilts. Even so, I used them in racing flats and spikes (for cross-country). Jon Campbell . Jon, You said: "I USED to wear orthonics". Are you STILL wearing them for races and/or marathons? I’ve just gotten orthonics due to A. Tendonitis, and I’m trying to figure out if these are a lifelong thing or if I can get rid of them eventually.
[This is an abridged version of a reply emailed privately.] I had hoped nobody would ask that. I wore (the same) orthotics from 1983 until 1992. I always figured that I should try without them, so, in a semi rest period, I experimented running without them. In that I have run injury free, it has worked. I train every day, twice if I’m training to compete, and tend towards high mileage. The (possible) downside. I lost form badly in early 1992, about 6 months before the orthotic removal experiment. My performance has never really returned. However, I am reluctant to blame the removal of the orthotics, maybe it was just age (I was 42 in 1992). Why was I so keen to remove the orthotics? (1) As an experiment. I figure that once you become a `running-machine’, i.e. after years of twice a day training, then the potential for injury simply wears off! Not scientifically reasoned, but… (2) I was always terribly fearful of losing them, or leaving at home when travelling. Certainly, when I was using them, there was no question of a decent training session without them; running without them felt very wierd, and likely to cause injury. BTW, the dramatic loss of form in early 1992 was as the result of running a race while just catching a cold — I had noticed a slightly dry throat, but thought it was air conditioning in the hotel. As soon as I was 400 metres into the race, the truth came out. Unfortunately, I was psyched-up, and was a member of a team, so I finished the race, but suffered badly for a week after. Although it is quite possible to train through a cold, I think the body is at its weakest when the cold is catching. Others have enquired about the type of shoes to wear with orthotics: I simply wore the same as before, Nike Pegasus and descendants. There probably is good reason to believe that while wearing properly fitted orthotics you _could_ get by with lower quality shoes. Best regards, Jon — Jonathan G Campbell Univ. Ulster Magee College Derry BT48 7JL N. Ireland
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Sorry Ken but you are painting a false picture about slip lasted shoes. While there are few that may be very soft as you suggest, there are also many slip lasted shoes that come under the stability and motion control category. There are many other factors including shape of the last, posts, the material of the midsole that comprise the "stability". take a look at a shoe chart such the RoadRunners offers in their catalog.
Doug, But we’re talking about shoes which are best for orthotics. You mentioned "RoadRunners" catalog. The following is a quote from their description about shoe construction: 1. Board-lasted construction makes the shoe stiff throughout and gives it a firm ride. 2. Slip-lasted construction gives the shoe a softer feel and more flexibility. 3. Combination-lasted construction gives the shoe a firm heel with forefoot flexibility. Orthotics: Look for shoes that are either board- or combination-lasted for a good platform. Also, having used orthotics in both slip-lasted and combination-lasted shoes, I can attest that the orthotic seats much better in the combination-lasted shoe. As a result, I believe that RoadRunner knows what they’re talking about regarding the shoe construction best suited for orthotic use. I’ll stand by by previous recommendation that orthotic users should stay away from slip-lasted shoes. But, of course, each individual needs to try things out and draw their own conclusion. hope I’ve been of help, Ken __ Dallas/Ft. Worth Calendar of running events at: http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/2056/dfwraces.html Exercise may not add one more day to my life, but it adds more life to each and every day!
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: Well I finally got my orthotics (after posting a question about them : here). I have walked in them for 2 weeks and tried running in them last : night. I only went for 12 minutes at a slow pace (8:30) : I have a few concerns: : 1. I have major foot pains today and last night on the side of my feet. : 2. The plastic form is very slippery and I am a bit reluctant to go all : out in them. Should I get some sort of cover for them? : 3. When I take the inserts out of my shoes to put in the orthotics the : bottom of the shoes are not smooth and have stitches in them that rub on : my feet. Should I put something between the shoe and the orthotic??? : (My Dr. said no). : Thanks : -Sam My Dr says I can put the 1/2 sole in the shoe. (in the front). But not too thick. Been doing that for years now. Tom S. — ‘You can’t roller skate in a Buffalo herd, but you can be happy if you’ve a mind to – ‘ Roger Miller
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Well I finally got my orthotics (after posting a question about them here). I have walked in them for 2 weeks and tried running in them last night. I only went for 12 minutes at a slow pace (8:30) I have a few concerns: 1. I have major foot pains today and last night on the side of my feet. 2. The plastic form is very slippery and I am a bit reluctant to go all out in them. Should I get some sort of cover for them? 3. When I take the inserts out of my shoes to put in the orthotics the bottom of the shoes are not smooth and have stitches in them that rub on my feet. Should I put something between the shoe and the orthotic??? (My Dr. said no). Thanks -Sam
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3. When I take the inserts out of my shoes to put in the orthotics the bottom of the shoes are not smooth and have stitches in them that rub on my feet. Should I put something between the shoe and the orthotic??? (My Dr. said no).
Sam, I use a combination-lasted shoe and replace the original inserts with flat Spenco insoles (but I’m sure many other brands of insoles will work just fine). I understand you can also use a board-lasted shoe with orthodics. However, do not try to put orthodics into a slip-lasted shoe. (Slip-lasted shoes are designed to be very soft, contour to your feet, and can be identified by their "baseball-style" stitching inside). These shoes do not provide the flat, stable seat that the orthodic needs. Also, ask another doctor! hope I’ve been of help, Ken __ Dallas/Ft. Worth Calendar of running events at: http://www.geocities.com/Colosseum/2056/dfwraces.html Exercise may not add one more day to my life, but it adds more life to each and every day!
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Sam Edwards asks: | 3. When I take the inserts out of my shoes to put in the orthotics the | bottom of the shoes are not smooth and have stitches in them that rub on | my feet. Should I put something between the shoe and the orthotic??? | (My Dr. said no). The doc is correct. Kenneth Raich writes:
| I use a combination-lasted shoe and replace the original inserts with | flat Spenco insoles (but I’m sure many other brands of insoles will work | just fine). I understand you can also use a board-lasted shoe with | orthodics. | However, do not try to put orthodics into a slip-lasted shoe. | (Slip-lasted shoes are designed to be very soft, contour to your feet, Sorry Ken but you are painting a false picture about slip lasted shoes. While there are few that may be very soft as you suggest, there are also many slip lasted shoes that come under the stability and motion control category. There are many other factors including shape of the last, posts, the material of the midsole that comprise the "stability". take a look at a shoe chart such the RoadRunners offers in their catalog. For instance the Brooks Beast, well known for its motion control especially for 180+ runners, is slip lasted. Looking closer will tell you it is also has a straight shaped last which keeps it stable. | and can be identified by their "baseball-style" stitching inside). These | shoes do not provide the flat, stable seat that the orthodic needs. Again, not quite true. If you look what comprises the material of the last it is basically a flat piece of material(cardboard) that covers the stitches. That piece of cardboard, while providing a modicum of stability does nothing to make the shoes sit flat. Actually all shoes are sewed with a slice a cardboard glued down either 1/2 way or all the way to make up the combination and full boad last. And yes take out the insert that comes with the shoe. 99% of those inserts are a minor arch support at best and place to hold the product name. Your orthotic was made assuming your foot is on a level plane and wearing the orthotic on top of the liner will add to the lift. | Also, ask another doctor! Please do…… — Doug Freese All opinions are mine. IBM Tele: 8-293-8098
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I run in orthotics and have always wondered how other runners deal with them. I use the graphite kind that cover 3/4 of the foot (heel to just behind ball). I remove the standard insole, put the orthotic in, then cover the orthotic with an old Asics full length insole that is a standard thickness throughout. No built-up areas. I have wondered if I was somehow negating the effect of the orthotic by covering it with a somewhat cushioned material. Would it be better to place the orthotic on top of the insole. Should the insole be completely omited?
I put mine on top of the insole so the custom design fits the contour of my foot more closely. But since you report that they work fine, you should probably just stay with your present system…:-) David F. Monti
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I run in orthotics and have always wondered how other runners deal with them. I use the graphite kind that cover 3/4 of the foot (heel to just behind ball). I remove the standard insole, put the orthotic in, then cover the orthotic with an old Asics full length insole that is a standard thickness throughout. No built-up areas. I have wondered if I was somehow negating the effect of the orthotic by covering it with a somewhat cushioned material. Would it be better to place the orthotic on top of the insole. Should the insole be completely omited? The system I use seemes to work well for me. Just wondering what other people are doing.
I too have the 3/4 orthotic. I’m running in the Nike Air Max 2 but I don’t cover the orthotic with the insole. I leave the insole completely out and it seems to work fine.
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I run in orthotics and have always wondered how other runners deal with them. I use the graphite kind that cover 3/4 of the foot (heel to just behind ball). I remove the standard insole, put the orthotic in, then cover the orthotic with an old Asics full length insole that is a standard thickness throughout. No built-up areas. I have wondered if I was somehow negating the effect of the orthotic by covering it with a somewhat cushioned material. Would it be better to place the orthotic on top of the insole. Should the insole be completely omited? The system I use seemes to work well for me. Just wondering what other people are doing.
My doc told me not to cover the orthotic with any other insole because it will reduce its effectiveness. This makes sense because the orthotic already has a soft cover on the carbon stuff. I put my orthotic on top of the insole, but you could remove the insole if you prefer. The reason I don’t is because my toes would be rubbing against the sole of the shoe which is not as smooth as the insole. – Space Station | I can’t speak for MDA and MDA can’t speak for me.
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Regarding orthotics and insoles: Since I’ve probably run more in hard orthotics than anyone alive (70,000 miles or so) I’ll put my 2 cents worth in. I glue spenco on the top of my orthotics that is the full length of my shoe. (I use the original insole for a pattern.) You want to remove the insole in your shoe from under your orthotics so they will work properly to control motion.
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(Lee Bailey) writes:
I just recently started to use 3/4 length orthotics. My podiatrist said that putting the insole either under or over the ortho would reduce its effectiveness. He suggested inserting the ortho into the shoe on top of the insole, then mark on the insole where the ortho ends. Then remove the ortho and insole, cut the insole along the marked line and reinsert both the ortho and the front portion of the insole into the shoe.
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I just recently started to use 3/4 length orthotics. My podiatrist said that putting the insole either under or over the ortho would reduce its effectiveness. He suggested inserting the ortho into the shoe on top of the insole, then mark on the insole where the ortho ends. Then remove the ortho and insole, cut the insole along the marked line and reinsert both the ortho and the front portion of the insole into the shoe.
When I used 3/4 orthotics I did this and it worked. Actually I got used to running without the remaining 1/4 for a while, but started to worry about long runs and blisters, so then I did what your podiatrist suggested and it worked. I taped the innersole (from underneath of course)to the orthotic.
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I run in orthotics and have always wondered how other runners deal with them. I use the graphite kind that cover 3/4 of the foot (heel to just behind ball). I remove the standard insole, put the orthotic in, then cover the orthotic with an old Asics full length insole I put my orthotic on top of the insole, but you could remove the insole if you prefer. The reason I don’t is because my toes would be rubbing against the sole of the shoe which is not as smooth as the insole.
There is another possibility. My podiatrist cuts a piece of Spenco sorbathane (not the same material as the Spenco insoles available in the sporting good stores) to the shape of the original insole (full shoe length) and glues it to the top of my 3/4 graphite orthotics. I then remove and discard the original insole. The Spenco sorbathane material is thin, but has a tremendous amount of shock absorbing ability, and it lasts longer than the original shoe insoles. When it wears out, we pull it off and glue on a new one.
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I run in orthotics and have always wondered how other runners deal with them. I use the graphite kind that cover 3/4 of the foot (heel to just behind ball). I remove the standard insole, put the orthotic in, then cover the orthotic with an old Asics full length insole that is a standard thickness throughout. No built-up areas. I have wondered if I was somehow negating the effect of the orthotic by covering it with a somewhat cushioned material. Would it be better to place the orthotic on top of the insole. Should the insole be completely omited? The system I use seemes to work well for me. Just wondering what other people are doing.
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I just bought a pair of brown Eccos after a doctor recommended them for a bad case of plantar fasciatis. I went to sierratrading post to check into getting a black pair, but all sizes are European (I guess). Can you tell me what a size 11 US is? Thanks.
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I just bought a pair of brown Eccos after a doctor recommended them for a bad case of plantar fasciatis. I went to sierratrading post to check into getting a black pair, but all sizes are European (I guess). Can you tell me what a size 11 US is? Thanks.
Check with Sierratrading. They should have a help section on size. Typically, though, a size 11 US is a size 44 or 45 continental. US sizes are different from UK sizes. UK sizes are also different from continental sizes. Conal
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Danskos are great for standing, but I don’t like them for walking (I imagine that ER staff have to do a good bit of that). Relative to other comfy shoes, the heel is high and the sole is narrow, so I always feel a bit teetery in them. Shoes I LOVE for walking are Borns and Eccos, especially Eccos. They’re wicked expensive, but your feet are worth it. Watch your favorite shoe store for sales, or check www.sierratradingpost.com for great prices on discontinued/overstock Eccos. –On Thursday, January 25, 2001 12:27 PM -0500 "J. Gersting" – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I bought a pair of these for my wife, and she loves them. We cook a lot in our kitchen with ceramic tile, so it is rough on your feet when standing there for 3-4 hours. They are used by many professional chefs, and they should be fine for work in an ER/hospital as they are closed toed and sealed leather. Very good recommendation Jason Most likely the chronic PF is work related since the pain really started 18 months ago when I transferred out of CCU/ ICU to the ER. Two totally different work environments and the 12 hour shifts with no down time. We laughed, and I said if you told me either quit my job or quit running, I would have to update my resume! 
Thanks for those of you who e-mailed me with such positive notes. The molds look like little Cinderella slippers, and she was a fine runner! Laurie-back to scrubbing and cleaning. Since you stand so much everyday: have you heard of Dansko Professional Clogs? Those might help with professionals who stand all day long. You can checkout www.dansko.com or www.danskooutlet.com Conal Graduate Student 337 Social Sciences 1 Dept. of Anthropology University of California-Santa Cruz
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I bought a pair of these for my wife, and she loves them. We cook a lot in our kitchen with ceramic tile, so it is rough on your feet when standing there for 3-4 hours. They are used by many professional chefs, and they should be fine for work in an ER/hospital as they are closed toed and sealed leather. Very good recommendation Jason – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Most likely the chronic PF is work related since the pain really started 18 months ago when I transferred out of CCU/ ICU to the ER. Two totally different work environments and the 12 hour shifts with no down time. We laughed, and I said if you told me either quit my job or quit running, I would have to update my resume! Thanks for those of you who e-mailed me with such positive notes. The molds look like little Cinderella slippers, and she was a fine runner! Laurie-back to scrubbing and cleaning. Since you stand so much everyday: have you heard of Dansko Professional Clogs? Those might help with professionals who stand all day long. You can checkout www.dansko.com or www.danskooutlet.com Conal Graduate Student 337 Social Sciences 1 Dept. of Anthropology University of California-Santa Cruz
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Most likely the chronic PF is work related since the pain really started 18 months ago when I transferred out of CCU/ ICU to the ER. Two totally different work environments and the 12 hour shifts with no down time. We laughed, and I said if you told me either quit my job or quit running, I would have to update my resume! Thanks for those of you who e-mailed me with such positive notes. The molds look like little Cinderella slippers, and she was a fine runner! Laurie-back to scrubbing and cleaning.
Since you stand so much everyday: have you heard of Dansko Professional Clogs? Those might help with professionals who stand all day long. You can checkout www.dansko.com or www.danskooutlet.com Conal Graduate Student 337 Social Sciences 1 Dept. of Anthropology University of California-Santa Cruz
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I had my appt. today and got the cast molds done. He is fitting me for athletic orthotics. We had a nice chat, personally and professionally. My poor feet even hurt and ached as he gently put the plaster on. Most likely the chronic PF is work related since the pain really started 18 months ago when I transferred out of CCU/ ICU to the ER. Two totally different work environments and the 12 hour shifts with no down time. We laughed, and I said if you told me either quit my job or quit running, I would have to update my resume! Thanks for those of you who e-mailed me with such positive notes. The molds look like little Cinderella slippers, and she was a fine runner! Laurie-back to scrubbing and cleaning.
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A piece of adivce after selling many many pairs of shoes to orthotic wearers, both longtime and new. Do not assume that the fact that you have custom made orthotics means that you can simply use any running shoe that strikes your fancy. Without a properly stable bed of shoe to work on, the orthotics will be an expensive placebo. Imagine your house built on a foundation of sand…some parts will be fine, some parts will sink. (orthotics in an shoe w/o enough support) your house built on a properly compacted sand foundation with a sturdy concrete slab…much more stable. (orthotics properly supported in your shoe). Jason – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have succumb to the pain. Saw my family doc last week for something, and he noticed me limping. I told him what the deal was with work and running, and he just shakes his head out of disbelief. I tried to tell him how much I enjoy the pain.<LOL I saw a Podiatrist last week, who I know, and is a well respected runner and Podiatrist. . I told him I heard orthotics don’t work. He sorta laughed and said they won’t if the person fitting you for them doesn’t know what they are doing,, Tomorrow I go for"casts" For those of you who have been fitted for orthotics, did you get relief right away and what type do you have? The process? Dumb me talked the whole time about running and his times that I forgot to ask anything related to my feet. He mentioned cortisone inj. possibly in the future, and I said NO! He has met a stubborn ol woman. Laurie
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Good luck with you new feet! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I had my appt. today and got the cast molds done. He is fitting me for athletic orthotics. We had a nice chat, personally and professionally. My poor feet even hurt and ached as he gently put the plaster on. Most likely the chronic PF is work related since the pain really started 18 months ago when I transferred out of CCU/ ICU to the ER. Two totally different work environments and the 12 hour shifts with no down time. We laughed, and I said if you told me either quit my job or quit running, I would have to update my resume! Thanks for those of you who e-mailed me with such positive notes. The molds look like little Cinderella slippers, and she was a fine runner! Laurie-back to scrubbing and cleaning.
– Regards, Dave I’d love to think that there’s an end just waiting right around the bend, but every turn’s a tunnel. I descend I’m the running man… Edward Ka Spell and kEvin Key, The Last Man to Fly, 1991
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: For those of you who have been fitted for orthotics, did you get relief : right away and what type do you have? The process? I found that they offered relief right away during prolonged exercise. YMMV. Caryn
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I have succumb to the pain. Saw my family doc last week for something, and he noticed me limping. I told him what the deal was with work and running, and he just shakes his head out of disbelief. I tried to tell him how much I enjoy the pain.<LOL I saw a Podiatrist last week, who I know, and is a well respected runner and Podiatrist. . I told him I heard orthotics don’t work. He sorta laughed and said they won’t if the person fitting you for them doesn’t know what they are doing,, Tomorrow I go for"casts" For those of you who have been fitted for orthotics, did you get relief right away and what type do you have? The process?
Hi Laurie – I was expecting them to magically cure my ITB pain(!), and was very depressed when on putting them into my shoes, the pain was still there! However, walking around in them for a week allowed the inflammation to go down – as my adjusted gait was no longer aggravating it – and was running iin two weeks. So – they do get my thumbs up! I think that you’ll need to be patient though, as your body adjusts to its adapted boichemics. Reenie Dumb me talked the whole time about running and his times that I forgot to ask anything related to my feet. He mentioned cortisone inj. possibly in the future, and I said NO! He has met a stubborn ol woman. Laurie
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I have succumb to the pain. Saw my family doc last week for something, and he noticed me limping. I told him what the deal was with work and running, and he just shakes his head out of disbelief. I tried to tell him how much I enjoy the pain.<LOL I saw a Podiatrist last week, who I know, and is a well respected runner and Podiatrist. . I told him I heard orthotics don’t work. He sorta laughed and said they won’t if the person fitting you for them doesn’t know what they are doing,, Tomorrow I go for"casts" For those of you who have been fitted for orthotics, did you get relief right away and what type do you have? The process? Dumb me talked the whole time about running and his times that I forgot to ask anything related to my feet. He mentioned cortisone inj. possibly in the future, and I said NO! He has met a stubborn ol woman. Laurie
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For those of you who have been fitted for orthotics, did you get relief right away and what type do you have? The process?
Semi rigged and they took some time to adjust. Like having sex with a condom(so they tell me). Dumb me talked the whole time about running and his times that I forgot to ask anything related to my feet. He mentioned cortisone inj. possibly in the future, and I said NO! He has met a stubborn ol woman.
While the orthotics should offer relief(assuming the foot geek knows his business), the cortisone shot after getting adjusted, will offer additional healing. I am equally as stubborn as you, but allowed the shots. The shots will offer rapid relief but this is not a sign to go out and start cranking mileage. Patience, Prudence, if you can! — Caveat Lector Doug "mule headed also" Freese
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Are only chiropractors capable of ordering these? Are there other places where you can get one tailor made to your foot?
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: Are only chiropractors capable of ordering these? Are there other : places where you can get one tailor made to your foot? Just about anyone can have them ordered — including you. For them to be fit right before and after ordering, it’s best to find a podiatrist who has good experience with runners. Sports-oriented chiropractors and orthopedists are sometimes fine, but proper casting before manufacture and proper tweaking after usually require a whole lot more experience than non-foot specialist have. / http://www.teleport.com/~pmotion …. Running, HRMs and More
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Are only chiropractors capable of ordering these? Are there other places where you can get one tailor made to your foot?
I believe chiropractors are NOT capable of ordering orthotics. Podiatrists (foot doctors) do this. Also I was refered to an orthotist locally who made my last pair. I was referred by my orthopedist after ’scope surgery on my knee. I’m still running, so I guess it works! Good luck!! — "GOPHER IT!!!" Bob Burns Mill Hall, PA USA
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What do orthotics do and do I need them? I run about a 50-60 mile week. My coach says I have flat feet. Am I risking my feet and shins by not getting them?
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Orthotics are devices that you put in your shoes to correct a biomechanical problem. Remember the old saying: "If it aint broke, don’t fix it." If you run those miles and you have no problem, forget about it. Perhaps the shoes you wear make up for any deficiency you might have. Remember however that flat feet in itself is not a problem. Marcel — …Marcel Cossais… MC Communication – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – What do orthotics do and do I need them? I run about a 50-60 mile week. My coach says I have flat feet. Am I risking my feet and shins by not getting them?
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What do orthotics do and do I need them? I run about a 50-60 mile week. My coach says I have flat feet. Am I risking my feet and shins by not getting them?Orthotics are any device which "assists" a body part e.g. glasses or
dentures. Foot orthotics (known correctly as orthosis) can be used to improve foot and spinal alignment, generate better body balance whereby soft tissue (muscles, tendons etc) would perform more efficiently. A correctly made pair of orthosis will 1) reduce the risk of injury 2) recover from an existing injury or overtraining episode 3)take pressure off of joints relieving inflammation of joints and soft tissue (e.g. tendonitis) and last but not least 4) enhance performance — Dennis Kiper, D.P.M. 800-DR KIPER http://www.liberty.com/home/footdoc
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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – What do orthotics do and do I need them? I run about a 50-60 mile week. My coach says I have flat feet. Am I risking my feet and shins by not getting them?Orthotics are any device which "assists" a body part e.g. glasses or dentures. Foot orthotics (known correctly as orthosis) can be used to improve foot and spinal alignment, generate better body balance whereby soft tissue (muscles, tendons etc) would perform more efficiently. A correctly made pair of orthosis will 1) reduce the risk of injury 2) recover from an existing injury or overtraining episode 3)take pressure off of joints relieving inflammation of joints and soft tissue (e.g. tendonitis) and last but not least 4) enhance performance — Dennis Kiper, D.P.M. 800-DR KIPER http://www.liberty.com/home/footdoc
Do orthotics need to be checked and/or replaced at times? I got my DPM proscribed set of hard plastic inserts about 15 years ago to correct overpronation (although, from the number of "deformities" he found in me from head to toe, who knows what else they were designed to do?) It seems like common sense that one’s body, posture, etc. would change over the years, and that an old prescription would no longer fit. In my case, too, the left one seems to be too far forward on my arch these days, maybe a byproduct of the new shoe designs. — The opinions expressed | Ki sham sh’aylunu shovenu divrei shir, above are mine, and do not | Vetolalenu simcha, reflect those of the | "Shiru lanu meshir tzion", Jet Propulsion Laboratory | Ech nashir et shir H’ al adamat necher?
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How do you know if you need orthotics? Do you always need them? Do you need different ones whenever you buy new shoes?
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How do you know if you need orthotics? Do you always need them? Do you need different ones whenever you buy new shoes?
I invite all the flack I’m about to get based on the following answer: "How do you know if you need orthotics?"-the answer for you is probably pain. Many might say treat the pain with PT and if it goes away leave it alone "if it ain’t broke". For me pain is not the issue. Orthotics to me represent a way to assist the human foot to 1) treat and prevent injury 2) enhance performance 3) slow down the "normal breakdown process". Your "normal pronation" (the "normal" motion by which your foot goes through to walk, & run) is breaking down with time. This leads to overpronation and for runners especially overtraining at some point which equals injury. Depending on a variety of factors of development in the bones and soft tissues of your body depends on where the injury will occur. If you are further interested in an article I wrote on "Pronation and Injury" please let me know. As for your shoes, they can and should be moved around and worn ALL THE TIME (provided they are comfortable and easy to wear). — Dennis Kiper, D.P.M. 800-DR KIPER http://www.liberty.com/home/footdoc
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How do you know if you need orthotics? Do you always need them? Do you need different ones whenever you buy new shoes?
Orthotics are used to help increase stability of the foot. As you can image this has beneficial effects for everything else on up the line as well as the foot itself. For example orthotics are often used to treat runners that have knee problems in conjunction with hip strengthening exercises. The theory is that if you stabilize your hip and foot….well the knee should follow. If you have pain, go see your doctor. If needed they will refer you to a specialist or physical therapist. They in turn will help identify if you need orthotics.
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I am wearing orhtotics that were presecribed 15+ years ago. While I usually subscribe to "if it ain’t broke why fix it," have orthotics changed enough in the last 15 years to warrant a visit to the podiatrist? Thanks, Paul
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I am wearing orhtotics that were presecribed 15+ years ago. While I usually subscribe to "if it ain’t broke why fix it," have orthotics changed enough in the last 15 years to warrant a visit to the podiatrist?
I went back last week after 8 years. Maybe my situation was different as one of my feet hadn’t totally responded to the original orthotic treatment. But they told me that I should have my orthotics reevaluated at least annually, if for no other reason to see if they need "refurbished". Maybe it depends on the kind you have. — Scott D. Benton Optimism indicates that the situation
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Speaking of which – I was measured (or whatever you call it) for orthotics yesterday. The doctor said he would answer any questions I had when he dispenses them to me. Which got me to thinking what do I need to know/ask? Sounds like you only wear them part time initially. What else should I know? Can you wear them with any footwear? I know they asked me to bring in the primary footwear I’ll be wearing with them. Can you wear them with any footwear? Any other helpful hints? Thanks for any input.
After 8 months of use, I had to have my orthotics "re-padded" (ie. new cushion material had to be put on the top). Also, because of my heel spur, he requested a "horseshoe" pad be added to one of them. It cost $30. It might be good to ask about a warranty or any other additional costs for maintaining the orthotics. — Stephanie Bragg
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: Speaking of which – I was measured (or whatever you call it) for : orthotics yesterday. The doctor said he would answer any questions : I had when he dispenses them to me. Which got me to thinking what do : I need to know/ask? Sounds like you only wear them part time initially. I got orthotics about 3 years ago (very bad case of flat feet, pronation and plantar fasciaitis (sp?)). Although my feet needed more correction than almost anyone my podiatrist had seen (11 degrees on one foot and 12 degrees on the other (but don’t ask me degrees of what)), the orthotics felt so comfortable from the moment I slipped them into my shoes that I wore them full time from the start. You’ll just have to see how they feel to you and go from there. Wear them for as long as you can as long as they don’t hurt (worse than your original problem). : What else should I know? Can you wear them with any footwear? I know : they asked me to bring in the primary footwear I’ll be wearing with : them. Can you wear them with any footwear? Any other helpful hints? They work best with lace up shoes or shoes with a high vamp, like close-fitting boots. You don’t indicate whether you’re a male or female, but they don’t work with sandals or low cut pumps or most high heels, although my podiatrist says he had one female patient who wore them in 3" heels without any problem. I find that if I wear them with low-vamp pumps I tend to step right out of my shoes. This causes me to curl my toes to compensate, which that causes other problems. Modifications can be made so you can wear orthotics with open back shoes (applies mostly to women’s shoes), but I forget if it’s the shoes or the orthotics that are modified. Orthotics work great with athletic shoes, i.e., sneakers, although I find I need to remove the built-in insoles if they have high or bulky arch supports because it they interfere with the orthotics (either throw off the angle or move the orthotics too-far forward in the shoe). Let’s see, what else – You might need to buy shoes either one size larger or wider to compensate for the room displaced by the orthotics. I, for example, am now the happy owner of several pairs of very expensive shoes ( $150) that I can’t wear with my orthotics because the shoes are now too small You can have 2 pairs of orthotics made, one slightly narrower to wear with dress shoes and the other wider to wear with athletic shoes. The wider the orthotics are the more support they provide, but the more space they take up in your shoes. The orthotics, especially if they’re the newer, thin graphite type, will tear up the insides of your shoes because the front edges dig into the bottoms your shoes. Despite the fact that your doctor will tell you orthotics are indestructable, they can break. My husband stepped on one of mine (it wasn’t in a shoe at the time) while we were on vacation and broke it in half right across the arch! The instruction sheet I got with mine said always to wear them with socks, supposedly so they don’t stick to your feet. But I wear them without socks throughout the summer without any problems. They’re easy to keep clean (just wipe with warm water and mild soap) and are odorless. — Regards, Meryem Primmer System Interconnect Lab Information Networks Division Hewlett-Packard Company Roseville, CA
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If you bought off-the-shlf orthodics(not fitted by a podiatrist) you may have a bad fit. If you got them from a podiatrist I would call him – the manufacturer somtimes makes mistakes or they need adjustment. Hopefully you didn’t start out wearing them every day, you need to ease in a few times a week and then add on. Although Orthodicts correct imbalances in foot strike, other parts of the body start getting used and sometimes complain. Think of them as a new pair of shoes – break them in slowly.
Speaking of which – I was measured (or whatever you call it) for orthotics yesterday. The doctor said he would answer any questions I had when he dispenses them to me. Which got me to thinking what do I need to know/ask? Sounds like you only wear them part time initially. What else should I know? Can you wear them with any footwear? I know they asked me to bring in the primary footwear I’ll be wearing with them. Can you wear them with any footwear? Any other helpful hints? Thanks for any input.
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Thank you, Dot. Your message of hope is priceless! My sister’s situation made me feel hopeless so I was so happy to hear a success story. Darlene – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thank you, Doug. Your post explains the need for the extra $$ — it’s not just product; it’s professional advice and fitting. My sister suffers from plantar fasciitis. It ended her running career completely. Now she cycles and hikes. I’ve been struggling with heel pain I am convinced is the same problem. I needed a little push to overcome my health insurance deductible. Thank you. Darlene, I had plantar fasciatus and achilles tendinitis about 5 years ago (sufficiently painful that I had trouble standing for long periods of time) (about age 50). My GP sent me to a podiatrist to get custom orthotics – after the initial treatments and some physical therapy. While the orthotics were costly (not covered by insurance), their value is "priceless". Someone in a shoestore looked at them the other day, and commented that because of the unevenness he could see in them (that is, my feet are uneven), I was far better off in the custom orthotics like that than any of the cheaper versions. (I was just trying on shoes, and we had gotten talking about orthotics, etc. – I hadn’t gone there for orthotics.) In other words, the dollars can be well spent on getting what’s really needed. I run far more now than I ever did before, and I’m just getting started on longer trail runs, something I never considered before. My "problem" turned out to have a silver lining since I discovered this ng while trying to not repeat prior mistakes (although my initial problems weren’t strictly running). Good luck! Dot
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Hi, I saw a thread recently in this newsgroup where someone had written about plantar faciitis, and someone responded with a link to a webpage that sold orthotics for arch support. The post is gone, but I wanted to access that website. Anyone? Thanks, Darlene
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Hi, I saw a thread recently in this newsgroup where someone had written about plantar faciitis, and someone responded with a link to a webpage that sold orthotics for arch support. The post is gone, but I wanted to access that website. Anyone?
Against my better judgment I think you are looking for http://www.drkiper.com/ If you need orthotics get to a sports pediatrist and first of all determine if you really need them and two, have them fitted and if necessary returned for modification. — Caveat Lector "the further you go outside, the further you go inside" – B. McKibben Doug Freese
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Try this http://www.supports4u.com/hapad.htm Hi, I saw a thread recently in this newsgroup where someone had written about plantar faciitis, and someone responded with a link to a webpage that sold orthotics for arch support. The post is gone, but I wanted to access that website. Anyone? Thanks, Darlene
– Regards, Dave
Response:
Thank you, Doug. Your post explains the need for the extra $$ — it’s not just product; it’s professional advice and fitting. My sister suffers from plantar fasciitis. It ended her running career completely. Now she cycles and hikes. I’ve been struggling with heel pain I am convinced is the same problem. I needed a little push to overcome my health insurance deductible. Thank you.
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, I saw a thread recently in this newsgroup where someone had written about plantar faciitis, and someone responded with a link to a webpage that sold orthotics for arch support. The post is gone, but I wanted to access that website. Anyone? Against my better judgment I think you are looking for http://www.drkiper.com/ If you need orthotics get to a sports pediatrist and first of all determine if you really need them and two, have them fitted and if necessary returned for modification. — Caveat Lector "the further you go outside, the further you go inside" – B. McKibben Doug Freese
Response:
Thank you, David, for your prompt response. Darlene
– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Try this http://www.supports4u.com/hapad.htm Hi, I saw a thread recently in this newsgroup where someone had written about plantar faciitis, and someone responded with a link to a webpage that sold orthotics for arch support. The post is gone, but I wanted to access that website. Anyone? Thanks, Darlene — Regards, Dave
Response:
Thank you, Doug. Your post explains the need for the extra $$ — it’s not just product; it’s professional advice and fitting. My sister suffers from plantar fasciitis. It ended her running career completely. Now she cycles and hikes. I’ve been struggling with heel pain I am convinced is the same problem. I needed a little push to overcome my health insurance deductible. Thank you.
Darlene, I had plantar fasciatus and achilles tendinitis about 5 years ago (sufficiently painful that I had trouble standing for long periods of time) (about age 50). My GP sent me to a podiatrist to get custom orthotics – after the initial treatments and some physical therapy. While the orthotics were costly (not covered by insurance), their value is "priceless". Someone in a shoestore looked at them the other day, and commented that because of the unevenness he could see in them (that is, my feet are uneven), I was far better off in the custom orthotics like that than any of the cheaper versions. (I was just trying on shoes, and we had gotten talking about orthotics, etc. – I hadn’t gone there for orthotics.) In other words, the dollars can be well spent on getting what’s really needed. I run far more now than I ever did before, and I’m just getting started on longer trail runs, something I never considered before. My "problem" turned out to have a silver lining since I discovered this ng while trying to not repeat prior mistakes (although my initial problems weren’t strictly running). Good luck! Dot