Month: March 2019

Insoles are something I know a lot about – just look at this site – and I have learned a lot about them over the years. Foot pain is something that I never want to deal with, but it seems like everyone will have foot pain at one point or another in their lives.

It’s not fun, but it is something that happens.

When walking is painful, it has a way of ruining all of the activities that you love. MindInsole is a product that I keep recommending to people, but there are a lot of different shoe inserts that you can choose from to end your foot pain.

And with 77% of people saying that they have experienced foot pain, very few people are going to the doctor to rectify the issue.

Insoles are the answer for many people.

The problem is that a lot of people have questions that they have no one to ask about their insoles.

What questions are people asking?

1. Can Insoles Be Trimmed Because the Size is Too Big?

When you go to buy insoles, you may see sizes that are 7 – 9, and if you’re a size 8, then you’ll have a lot of excess insole available. This leaves a major problem for a lot of people because the insole can become bunched up in the shoe.

You don’t want to walk on an insole that is bunched up – it also hurts.

The ideal thing to do, and the vast majority of insoles will allow it, is to trim the insole. All you need to do is take a pair of scissors and start trimming the insoles properly. I recommend doing this little-by-little so that you don’t trim too much of the insole off.

A neat trick that I learned is to match up the insole to the bottom of your shoe.
This should give you a good indicator of where to cut. You’ll also find that there are lines on the insole that mark where you should be cutting based on your size shoe.

Note: There are custom shoe inserts that cost a lot of money and are made to form to your foot. While these inserts are often superb, they often cost a lot of money. Anyone that is opting to go with custom inserts will want to consider trying one of the pairs that we recommend as a cheaper alternative.

2. Help! What Size Insert Should I Buy?

You’ll find that there are a range of sizes available, and the right size for you will be available. One thing I want to note is that half sizes will mean a lot, and if you have a half-inch space in your shoe, the insert will move around a lot.

Oftentimes, this moving will degrade some of the comfort and relief that the shoe insert is meant to offer.

You’ll be better off buying the size range that you need, so if they’re sold out, you may want to wait until the appropriate size is back in stock. If you don’t see a range but see an insole that says size 7 3/4, know that all of these 3/4-sized insoles cannot be trimmed down.

3. My Doctor Hasn’t Prescribed an Insert, Can I Still Wear Them?

Yes. Doctors may not prescribe insoles, but as long as they don’t impact your normal gait or walking pattern or interfere with a foot orthotic, there’s no reason that you cannot try them for pain relief.

Insoles are sold over-the-counter for most foot-related issues.

What I will say is that if you have a specific medical condition, like those listed below, you may want to find an insole that is specific to your needs. You’ll find insoles that have been designed to help relieve pain associated with:

• Pronation issues
• Plantar fasciitis
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Ball-of-foot pain

You can also find insoles that have been designed to work well with high-heels or insoles that are designed to work best for runners.

I do recommend a lot of general insoles that work great overall for all types of foot pain, but if you have a specific issue to tackle, ask the manufacturer of the insole if it will help if they don’t mention the condition specifically.

4. What Material Should I Pick for My Insole?

If you do a lot of research, you’ll find that insoles can be made of a lot of different materials. There’s a lot to know about insoles, and the materials that you’ll find most often are:

• Cork
• Foam
• Gel
• Leather

And each has their own benefit. The most recommended material is gel because it is long-lasting, and it also offers great support and pressure relief. It’s a great overall option for all foot-related issues.

Gel is great for shock absorption, so if you run or play sports, this may be a good option for you.

Cork is an interesting material because it offers additional support, but it also has a tad of cushioning that will allow for added foot comfort.

Leather is the final option, and it’s less supportive than other materials, but it is also one of the more comfortable materials for an insole. You may also find that there are a combination of materials offered, and these work well, too.

5. Should You Remove the Insoles You Find in Your Normal Shoe?

Your shoes have insoles in them already, but these insoles are often not as effective as other insoles. When you purchase full-length insoles, you should be removing the insoles in your shoes if they come out easily.

The reason is that the added height may make the shoe very tight when wearing both insoles at once.

If you have a partial insert, then keep your original insoles inside of the shoe. When in doubt, look at the instructions that come with your insoles. The manufacturer will often include instructions that tell you whether or not you should be removing the existing insoles.

I find that shoe inserts are far more comfortable when the original insert is removed because even one-fourth of an inch increase in thickness can make wearing your shoes very uncomfortable.

Looking for the best insoles? Finding the right one isn’t as easy as you might think. It’s not as simple as choosing one that matches the color of your shoes. You need insoles that will get the job done – no matter what they look like.

Most of the shoe inserts that come with our shoes are thin and don’t really do their job well. They pinch and they sink, which leaves your feet feeling miserable at the end of the day.

What if you wanted to replace those standard insoles that come with your shoes? How can you make sure that you choose the best insoles?

Why Would You Need New Insoles?

Under normal circumstances, you really don’t need the extra cushioning that insoles give you – especially if you don’t walk around too much and the heel of your shoe is stable. Some of us need a little extra arch support. Other people have painful foot conditions, and insoles can help alleviate that discomfort.

What types of conditions can insoles help with?

Over-Pronation and Over-Supination

Over-pronation occurs when your foot rolls too far inside when you walk. Over-supination is the opposite – the foot rolls too far outside when you walk.

Over-supination puts a lot of pressure on the entire foot.

Unfortunately, over-supination and over-pronation are naturally-occurring conditions – you can’t cure them. But you can correct them with the right pair of insoles.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis affects a lot of people. Most of you probably know this condition as “flat foot.” Instead of having a natural arch, people with flat feet have what’s called a collapsed arch.

The area of the foot that stretches from the toe to the heel is flat, and it’s forced to support your body weight.

All of that pressure can cause unbearable pain if you’re walking or standing for a while.

There are other issues that require insoles and can cause foot pain, such as:

• Standing on your feet for long hours
• Playing sports
• Differing leg sizes

It’s important to remember that different insoles have different purposes. Some are designed for arch support, while others provide shock absorption or cushioning for comfort.

How Do You Choose the Right Insole?

The right insole for you will really depend on the issue that you want to address. The size of your foot and your arch type are important things to consider, but what’s most important is the condition that you’re trying to address.

Knowing the problem will also help you determine whether you need to consult with a podiatrist.

But how do you know your arch type?

That’s a great question, and it’s one of the most important parts of choosing an insert. There are many YouTube videos out there that can help you figure out what type of arch you have.

If these videos aren’t helpful, a podiatrist can help you determine your foot type. A podiatrist will measure your feet, and also perform an analysis to determine if you have any underlying medical conditions. They’ll also recommend the ideal type of insole, which will save you a lot of time and frustration.

Different Types of Insoles

There are a wide range of different insoles on the market today. Some, like Mindinsole inserts, are designed to provide overall comfort and pain relief. Others are designed to address certain foot conditions.

One thing I can tell you – any insert will be better than the standard ones that come installed in your shoes. Most standard insoles are too thin. If you have to be on your feet all day, you’ll be uncomfortable.

Whether you want your work shoes to feel more comfortable or you want to add some stability to your high-heels, insoles can help.

Cushioned insoles are designed with a cushy material that’s well-distributed throughout the shoe. These types of insoles:

• Distribute your weight evenly
• Alleviate pressure on the foot
• Absorb shock when you walk on hard surfaces

I’m going to be honest – if you’ve never worn inserts before, they may feel uncomfortable at first. That’s only because your feet are used to the thin inserts that come with most shoes. Having that thick, extra padding in your shoe may feel strange at first.

Cushioned insoles are the most common type of insert you’ll find. In fact, you can even find them in the health sections of most grocery stores. But they cater to a general audience (i.e. they don’t address a specific foot condition), and they aren’t customized to your foot size. That means that you’ll have to trim them to fit your foot.

Sizing and Trimming Your Inserts

Cushioned insoles cater to the mass market, so they are sold in shoe-size ranges. They’re never sold in single shoe sizes. Instead, you’ll find options for sizes “6-8” or “10-12.”

Because they come in size ranges – not specific sizes – you’ll have to trim the insert to match the size of your foot.

You’ll find insoles in two sizes: 3/4 length and full-length. The 3/4 length insoles are placed on top of your regular insoles and on the part that needs support.

How Long Does It Take for Insoles to Work?

How long does it take for insoles to start working? You should start feeling some relief right away. The cushioning should feel great on your feet, and most inserts are made with easy-to-conform material.

Unlike orthotics, it shouldn’t take long for you to get used to wearing your inserts.

Insoles usually last about six months before they need to be replaced. You’ll need to buy a new pair of insoles at this point because your feet will have grown used to having the extra cushioning.

What are the Benefits of Insoles?

There are many benefits to wearing insoles, including:

• Improved balance
• Better stability, especially if you wear high-heels
• Better gait and posture
• Better weight distribution for pain relief
• Heel and arch support

If your shoes are the right size but they’re still leaving you in pain at the end of the day, it may be time to buy a good pair of insoles. Your feet will thank you.

Your feet can tell you a lot about your health. While your feet may not be an indicator of a cold or respiratory issue, they can be an indicator of an unhealthy lifestyle. Perhaps you’re overweight and your feet hurt, or perhaps you have diabetes or issues with swelling in the feet that won’t go away.

Insoles may be able to help – somewhat.

You should really be trying to treat the underlying issue that is causing you the pain and discomfort. Small changes can make a big difference, and your soles can cause you to suffer from pain in your:

• Ankles
• Calves
• Knees
• Feet

You may also have one of the following medical conditions:

1. Plantar Fasciitis

I’m mentioning plantar fasciitis because it’s the most common cause of foot pain, so it’s a good starting point for anyone that is suffering from foot pain. What happens is that there’s an irritation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot.

This irritation occurs on the band that connects your toes to the heel bone.

If you have pain along the bottom of your foot, it may be a sign that you have plantar fasciitis. The inner part of the heel is the most common area where pain is exhibited. A few ways to know if plantar fasciitis may be your issue is if:

• Pain occurs after strenuous activity
• Pain is more common in the morning after you wake up

When irritation has been allowed to persist for any length of time, it’s possible that even walking may cause heel pain. There are stretches and therapy that can help with plantar fasciitis, but you can also find the best insoles for plantar fasciitis, and they will often help alleviate the pain and discomfort.

2. Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis is very common, with more than 200,000 people per year diagnosed with the issue. This is a condition that is caused by overuse of the Achilles tendon, which is the band that is responsible for connecting the heel bone to the calf muscles.

Runners often have pain in the Achilles, and it is a condition that may present when the person increases the duration or intensity of their running.

It’s not one of the foot problems commonly found in kids, but it is found most often in middle-aged men. Sports that Achilles tendonitis most commonly occurs in include:

• Basketball
• Tennis

At-home care will be able to correct the condition in many cases. If you have a mild ache in the back of the leg or right above your heel, especially after any sports-related activity, there’s a good chance that you have Achilles tendonitis.

The best shoe inserts will be able to relieve much of the pressure put on the Achilles, allowing for better pressure distribution at the foot’s heel.

3. Overpronation

Foot pronation, or overpronation in this case, will lead to you putting too much pressure on the arch of the foot. Pain and difficulty walking are more common, and over time, this pressure will lead to the flattening of the arch of the foot.

The good news is that the flattening of the foot’s arch is something that happens over a period of years rather than months.

You have time to correct the issue.

Orthotic insoles will be able to force the foot into a proper position, allowing for pressure in the arch of the foot to be relieved. Even distribution of pressure will start to allow the natural arch in the foot to be maintained, allowing for a proper walking gait and less pain over time.

The impacted part of the foot will be allowed to recover if given enough time.

Two good indicator of overpronation are:

• The arch rolls inward
• The arch rolls downward

You may also find people calling this flat foot when the foot starts to turn downward.

4. Flat Feet

Flat feet is when the arch of the foot collapses, so the area where the arch is meant to be will touch the ground. Sometimes, you’ll see a complete contact of this area, which is unnatural.

There are people born with flat feet and others that have the issue develop over time.

Age and injury may be the cause of flat feet. Doctors can visually examine the foot and tell if a person has flat feet or not. You can then have tests done that will be able to verify whether or not you have flat feet.

Pain medication may be able to alleviate the pain you feel when walking, but the better option is an orthotic insole that offers arch support.

Arch supports and exercise will be able to alleviate the issue without the need for surgery, which is recommended in the most severe of cases.

The good news is that you’re not alone with your flat feet.

Around 20% – 30% of the population has flat feet. You can visually watch the way that you walk to see if part of your arch is touching the ground when you walk. If you have midfoot region pain, there’s a chance that you have flat feet.

5. General Foot Pain

Technically not a medical condition, general foot pain can make it difficult to walk or remain comfortable when playing sports. And even when walking a long distance, a person may start to suffer from foot pain that causes them to have to sit down and relax.

You don’t have to deal with general foot pain for long.

Insoles or inserts will be able to alleviate these general foot pains. You want to find an insole that is designed to add comfort with every step and alleviate much of the pressure that you put on key areas of the foot, such as the ball or heel of the foot.

Since every shoe has an insole of some kind, you’ll be able to find an over-the-counter insole that will be able to replace these flimsy insoles with ones that are designed to help with general foot pains and most foot conditions.

We’re hard on our feet. We stand for too long. We play sports that make our feet hit the ground – hard. And we can walk for hours on end if we want to.

But all of these activities add up to one thing: foot pain. Foot pain can come in many forms, but many people experience a burning sensation.

Burning can occur for a number of reasons, and no one wants to deal with this type of pain. There are many home remedies you can try to alleviate the pain, but it’s important to understand the root cause of the problem.

The condition is a complicated one to self-diagnose simply because the pain can be caused by so many different things.

What Causes Burning Foot Pain?

Nerve damage is one of the most common causes of burning foot pain. This condition is called neuropathy, and it’s caused by damaged nerve fibers in the legs. These fibers now misfire and are overactive, which causes them to send pain signals to the brain. These signals are sent even if there are no wounds or injuries.

If you have neuropathy, you’re probably also experiencing tingling or numbness in your feet.

Nerve damage isn’t the only thing that can cause burning pain in your feet; it can also be caused by improper footwear. If your shoes aren’t wide enough, for example, it can put excess pressure on the bone in the inner part of your foot.

That excess pressure will cause a lot of pain, and you may not know the cause of that pain right away. Orthotic inserts can help, but buying a new pair of properly-fitting shoes is the only real solution.

Simply switching to the right pair of shoes can make the pain completely disappear.
If you’re experiencing burning sensations on the bottom of your feet and not an area of the bone, you may be suffering from pressure pain.

When pressure is applied to any part of the body, especially the feet, it can cause pain. That pressure causes blood to pool in the area. Eventually, it becomes sore and uncomfortable.

Here’s the good news: proper insoles can help with this. Insoles that use acupressure techniques – you can read about them in Mindinsole reviews – can provide you with much-needed relief.

Along with all of the conditions I’ve already mentioned, burning foot pain can also be caused by:

• Diabetes
• Lymes disease
• HIV/AIDS
• Kidney disease
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Vasculitis
• Medication side effects
• Hypothyroidism
• Sarcoidosis
• GBS

These are just a few of the many things that can make your feet feel like they’re burning. Any time you have pain in your feet, burning sensations can follow.

How to Diagnose the Cause of Your Burning Feet

Your burning feet have to be caused by something. You may assume that it’s your shoes, but the issue may go much deeper than that.

If your shoes are too tight or uncomfortable, then by all means, replace them. If your shoes were the culprit, you should experience immediate relief and the pain should not return.

If the problem is caused by a medical issue, you may need to undergo some tests to determine the issue.

These tests may include:

• Nerve biopsy
• Nerve condition test, which measures your nerves’ ability to properly transmit impulses
• Lab test to check for different levels in the urine, blood or spinal fluid
• EMG, or muscle function, test

Your doctor will need to be the one to conduct these tests. In most cases, the conditions that cause burning foot pain can be treated, and you can go on with your life without pain.

Insoles will help with common issues, but if you have a medical issue that’s causing your pain, they will only provide temporary relief. You need to address the medical issue if you want to get rid of the problem entirely.

Neuropathy is the most common cause of burning foot pain, and treatment will typically start with trying to prevent the damage from progressing. This may include treating the underlying condition causing the issue, which will help improve your symptoms and the neuropathy itself.

If you have small fiber neuropathy, your doctor may not be able to find a cause for the problem. In this case, you may need to treat the symptoms only, which may include:

• Dietary changes
• Medication
• Lifestyle changes

Of course, every cause for burning pain is different. You may need one of the following treatments or another treatment entirely, depending on the issue:

• Stop drinking alcohol if the nerve damage is caused by alcoholism.
• Vitamin injections or supplements if the issue is caused by a vitamin deficiency.
• Thyroid medications if the issue is thyroid-related.
• Dialysis for those with kidney disease.

It’s also possible that there may be other issues that are contributing to your symptoms. Your doctor may recommend a variety of changes that may address the root cause of the problem so that you can live a normal, pain-free life.

In serious cases where the burning sensation may be negatively affecting your life, pain medications may be prescribed.

A physical examination may also be conducted by your doctor, which will look at:

• Sensation level to determine if you’re suffering from “lack of feeling.”
• Structural issues in your feet and legs, which may be causing you to put excess pressure on your feet. Orthotics can usually help resolve this issue.
• Reflexes to determine if there are neurological issues that may be causing the discomfort and pain.
• Fungal infections, which can typically be cleared with antibiotics.

You’ll have to go through your medical history with your doctor so that he or she may have a better understanding of your overall health. This may give your doctor a clue as to the underlying cause of the problem.

Here’s the good news: treatment is usually straightforward. Treatment may include dietary and lifestyle changes, medication and/or physical therapy. If, for example, diabetes is the cause of your burning foot pain, your doctor will likely prescribe medication, recommend that you change your diet and begin an exercise regimen to get the condition under control.

If you’re on your feet all day at work, you could really use a pair of insoles. In fact, you could probably benefit from insoles with acupuncture points that massage your feet as you walk. Who wouldn’t love a foot massage every time they got up to walk around?

We know that sitting for long periods of time is bad for our health, but the same is true for standing. Sitting or standing for too long puts excess strain on the body.

Does that mean that you should leave your job? No. The right pair of insoles – like the massaging ones I just mentioned – can save your feet and your body a lot of pain.

Why Standing for Long Hours is Bad for Your Feet

Standing for long periods of time can cause foot pain. For some, this pain is severe or debilitating. The physical pain is just an initial warning sign of more troubling things to come. You can’t see what’s going on behind the curtain, but eventually – with prolonged periods of standing – musculoskeletal disorders can manifest.

When you stand for hours at a time, you’re affecting your knees, back, thighs, calves, lower back and hips. You may be surprised to learn that standing for long periods can cause more damage to the lower limbs than sitting for extended periods. If left unchecked, it can lead to some more serious issues down the road.

Venous insufficiency, varicose veins and the worsening of coronary diseases are just a few of the many issues people experience after years of standing on their feet for too long. These effects can be even worse in the elderly.

How to Counter the Effects of Standing Too Long

One of the best ways to counteract the effects of standing too long is a simple one: sit down. Alternate between sitting and standing as much as you can. For example, if you have to spend two hours on your feet, try to spend the next hour sitting down.

Sitting down will give your feet – and the rest of your body – a much-needed break.

While standing, you may want to shift your weight from one foot to the other from time to time. This will give each foot some relief.

If you’re not able to sit down, try stretching. Stretching can help improve blood flow and ensure that nutrients reach your extremities.

There are also several products that can help counteract the negative effects of standing, including:

Custom-Made Orthotics

Insoles provide so many benefits to your feet, which you can read all about in Mindinsole reviews. Along with absorbing shock, shoe insoles also provide support and make standing more bearable.

Insoles are available in a wide range of forms, so you can choose one that matches your lifestyle and needs.

If you have supination or over-pronation, a rigid or semi-rigid insole may be a good fit for you. These types of insoles are also great for athletes who need extra support.

A soft arch is ideal for those who stand on their feet all day. The foam allows for cushioned support where you need it most.

The goal with using inserts is to correct your step, alleviate pressure on the joints and ligaments, and to improve your posture. Insoles are really the best-known form of support for many foot problems.

Stretching

When most people think of stretching, they think of yoga or pre/post workout stretches. But stretching regularly – and properly – can help fix most of your joint problems.

If you don’t time for a proper workout, a 20-minute yoga session will stretch and elongate those tired, aching muscles.

Standing for long periods of time puts the most strain on your lower body, so activating these muscles can help you feel better. Activating the gluteus maximus, the largest muscle on the body, is a great way to improve your flexibility and your range of motion.

Stretching your hamstrings is also important, as they become stiff and tense after standing for long periods of time.

Making it a point to stretch your entire body for just 20 minutes a day can work wonders for your overall flexibility and pain relief.

Compression Socks

Standing for long periods of time causes the blood to pool and your legs to feel fatigued. Compression socks can help counteract this by helping the blood to move through the body more efficiently.

There are three ranges of compression available:

• 15-20 mmHg
• 20-30 mmHg
• 30-40 mmHg

Ask your doctor for recommendations on which compression level would be best for you.

The negative pressure from standing causes the blood to pool in the wrong places, which is what causes swelling in the legs. Compression socks will improve venous blood flow to ensure that your blood keeps flowing back to the heart and out to your extremities.

Socks alone won’t solve your aching-feet problem, but they can ease the pressure and provide some relief.

Invest in a Good Pair of Shoes

It’s tempting to buy those cheap shoes on display (who can argue with a good deal?), but cheaper shoes usually equate to cheaper quality. Cheap shoes are hard on your feet.

The right pair of shoes for you may not necessarily be a flat one. A little elevation can actually be good for the feet. However, heels that are higher than 3” can put strain on the legs and may harm the sensitive nerves in your feet.

Those stilettos you’ve been eyeing may look great with your outfit, but they can put some serious strain on your feet and other parts of your body. If you really want to wear them, then get a good pair of inserts to match the shoe.

But if you plan to stand for several hours, go with a much lower heel.

Can you reverse the damage caused by standing too long? That depends on how much damage has been done. The longer you spend on your feet, the more irreversible the damage will become. But it’s never too late to buy a good pair of insoles to stop the damage in its tracks and prevent it from getting worse.

If you have aching, painful feet, you may be thinking about buying insoles to get some relief. But if you just go to the store and buy the first pair of insoles you find, you may be in for some serious disappointment.

Finding the right insoles can be a complicated process. But don’t worry – we’re here to arm you with all of the knowledge you need to find the right insoles.

Orthotic Insoles

Orthotic insoles are ridged or semi-ridged in nature, and they’re typically custom-made. They’re favored by athletes and those who like to do high-intensity workouts.

Athletes prefer these types of insoles because they’re more flexible and give you more control. With this insole, you can flex your toes and move your foot comfortably.

Orthotic insoles offer heel and metatarsal support, so they’re typically made with a combination of materials. They provide support and they also help improve your gait by making sure your foot is aligned properly. These are key important things in preventing foot pain.

You’ll find orthotic insoles in both full-size and 3/4 size options. Because they are usually custom-made, you’ll find different widths available to meet your comfort and support needs. The thicker the insole, the better the shock absorption.

Because these insoles tend to be a little thicker, it can take some time to get used to wearing them. They’re ridged form also takes some getting used to compared to other types of softer insoles. But you will get used to them, and you’ll appreciate their support.

Arch Support Insoles

If you’re looking for insoles for flat feet, you’ll want ones that offer arch support. Arch support insoles provide the support you need while still giving you that cushy feel that massages your feet as you walk.

These types of insoles are cushy, but they still maintain some degree of firmness for arch backing. They’re still flexible, but they provide firm support for your arches.

Arch support insoles are semi-ridged, so they’re ideal for people who spend most of the day on their feet. But even if you’re not on your feet all day at work, you may also want to have a pair of insoles on hand for those long days or nights out on the town.

Before purchasing a pair, make sure that you know your arch type. There are three levels of support offered with these insoles: low, normal and high. High arch support insoles are designed for high arches, while low ones are designed for low arches (or flat feet).

If you have discomfort in the arch area or you’re transitioning to orthotic inserts, these insoles may be a good fit for you. These insoles will make sure that your arch is in a proper position.

Gel or Comfort Insoles

If shock absorption is your main concern and you’re on your feet for most of the day at work, gel insoles may be a good fit for you. They’re soft and cushy, and they allow your feet to sink right in. They’re easy to adjust to for newbies, too. Some insoles, like Mindinsole inserts, will massage your feet as you walk.

Athletes who don’t have issues with over-pronation or over-supination can use these insoles, too. They’re great for shock absorption, which is something athletes have to worry about on the field and on the court.

If you’re dealing with mild discomfort and you don’t have a medical condition that affects your feet, these insoles are a great option. Anyone can wear them.

But if you need major arch support, gel insoles may not be a good fit.

Heel Support Insoles

Many shoes don’t offer proper heel support, and this can leave you in pain after just a few hours of walking. If you’re going out for a night on the town, the last thing you want to worry about is aching feet.

That’s where heel support insoles come in. These are sold as either whole inserts, or as heel cups that you place only in the heel area. These insoles can be worn regardless of whether you have a foot problem or not.

The great thing about these inserts is that they prevent slippage when you’re walking. If you’re wearing heeled shoes or boots, you know how much your feet move back and forth in the shoe as you walk. These inserts keep your feet in place for better stability and comfort.

These insoles are typically made of a combination of materials, and they offer many benefits. Some are made of gel, which makes them quite soft yet still firm enough to offer support. Others are thin and made of foam. These ones are more rigid in nature, but they’re better at preventing slipping.

If you wear high-heels, you may want a full-length insole made of cork. Cork offers both stability and comfort, but you may also prefer foam if you have aching heels.

Athletic Insoles

Athletic insoles are ideal for – you guessed it – athletes. They’re sometimes called trainer insoles. They have a heel-to-toe design as well as a built-in arch, which allows you to move properly when playing sports.

These are ideal for runners as well as those who play soccer, football, basketball and other court games. Cyclists and jumpers also prefer these insoles for comfort and support.

Most athletic insoles are made of cork, as it provides both comfort and support. Some have a rigid base, and these ones are made primarily of foam and other materials to make them more supportive.

Trainer insoles boost support wherever it’s needed, whether it’s the arch or the heel. They can be custom-made, but you can also find them in most shoe stores.

Do You Really Need Insoles?

Not everyone needs insoles, but most people can benefit from wearing them. If you’re an athlete or you’re dealing with food pain, the right insoles can provide you with relief from your discomfort.

Without insoles, you’ll be putting a lot of pressure on your foot and walking with an unnatural foot alignment.

Most shoes come with sub-par insoles that really don’t provide much cushioning or support. Insoles can help, and they can easily replace the ones that came with your shoes.

High heels can take your outfit to the next level, but they can also do a number on your feet. If you wear heels for a night out on the town – or to the office – you can expect your feet to hurt when you get home.

What if there was a way to wear the high heels you love without the added foot pain? Here’s the good news: you can wear heels in comfort for the most part.

Buy the Right Size

Choosing the right size is crucial no matter what type of shoe you’re buying. It’s important to remember that your sneaker size may not be the same as your high heel size. Your shoe size can change over time, too – especially if you lose or gain weight.

If your shoes are the wrong size, they’re going to be uncomfortable.

If you haven’t had your foot sized in years or since you’ve had children, it may be time to have them measured by a professional.

Buying the proper-sized heels will make a world of difference in your aches and pains.

Choose Thicker Heels

Thin heels may give you a sexy look, but they’re also putting excess strain on your feet. They’re also harder to walk in, so your ankles and feet may wiggle as you take a step. If your ankle wobbles too much or the wrong way, you could fall or put way too much stress on your ankle.

If you do fall and you fall the wrong way, you could wind up with stress breaks or fractures.

Avoid wearing stilettos if you’re already battling foot pain and discomfort.

Thicker heels are the better option. They’ll provide more support and stability without putting as much pressure on your feet. Ideally, the heel should be made of rubber. The rubber will absorb the shock with each step and alleviate some of the pressure when you walk.

If you’re going to wear stilettos or shoes with thin heels, make sure that you take lots of breaks to give your feet a rest.

Buy Insoles

You’re probably familiar with shoe insoles, but did you know that they also make insoles for high heels? They make heels just a little more comfortable to wear and reduce some of the pressure on your feet. Thin insoles seem to work best with heeled shoes.

Before you run out and buy a new pair of insoles for your heels, check out the one that came with your shoes. It’s important to make sure that there’s enough room for an insert. If there isn’t enough room, your foot will push up against the top of the shoe, causing even more discomfort and pain.

You have the option of removing the standard insole, but keep in mind that you’ll need a thicker insole to make up for the loss of the original insole.

I like silicone gel inserts for high heels because they also help keep your foot in place. You know how much your feet can slide forward when you walk in heels. This material helps prevent that. They also combat soreness along the ball of the foot.

Stretch Your Feet

Nothing feels better than kicking off your heels and stretching out your feet after wearing them for hours. Proper foot stretching can go a long way in helping alleviate pain caused by flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or just wearing your heels for too long.
There are many foot stretches to choose from.

Start by kicking off your heels and pointing your foot straight down. This movement will cause the calves to elongate and start stretching.

Next, you’ll want to pull your toes upward to alleviate stress in your Achilles tendon. To make this stretch more effective, I like to place a towel under the ball of my foot and pull upward with both hands. If you do it right, the pain starts subsiding right away. Plus, the stretching feels great on the feet.

If it’s the outside of your foot that hurts, you can gently move the ankle from side to side. Make sure that you’re sitting down when you do this to avoid injuring your ankle.

Proper stretching will help keep your ankles loose and provide pain-relief. Flexible, loose ankles are less prone to injury and strain.

Buy Heels at the Right Time of Day

You’re excited to buy a new pair of heels, so you jump out of bed in the morning and straight to the store. Big mistake!

It’s best to buy high heels at the end of the day. Why? Because you’ve been walking around all day, and your feet have become swollen.

Because your feet are already swollen, you’ll be able to better choose a pair of heels that will fit comfortably. You’ll also have a better idea of how your feet will feel after wearing heels for a long period of time.

Walk Properly

Most people lead with their feet when walking. This is the natural way to walk, but it also puts more pressure on your feet.

Heels make walking even harder, and they put a lot of strain on the ball of the foot if you walk this way. Leading with your thighs instead of your feet will help alleviate some of the pressure on the ball of the foot, so you’ll suffer less discomfort and pain.

Make sure that you practice walking like this at home before you go out. Your legs should be straight when taking a step like this, and you’ll need to move your legs from your hip. Try practicing in front of a mirror to make sure that you’re doing it properly.

Choose Heels with More Coverage Up Top

The more coverage you have on the top of your foot, the better. That’s why it’s easier to wear high-heeled boots than heeled sandals for long periods of time. If the weather is warm, try choosing a pair of heels with an ankle strap or a wide strap across the top.

Shoes that have more coverage up top can also help prevent blisters and friction that can cause pain and discomfort.