Insoles or orthotics commonly available in the market are mostly a layer of gel or plastic which can be inserted into footwear to get additional support to the foot area. Under normal circumstances they would not be required but it is often a common go-to solution for those suffering from foot and heel pain. Plantar fasciitis is such a condition in which patients often resort to the use of custom shoe inserts to get the comfort they need.

Leading Off-The-Shelf Plantar Fasciitis Insoles

Orthotics vary from highly priced prescription grade insoles to comparatively cheaper over-the-counter options. Custom made designs often come for a price above $500 as they require specialized knowledge and service to construct. Also such an expense is generally not covered under most of the medical insurance packages. But now there are many off-the-shelf orthotics developed by leading brands which could also be very useful. They may come in the form of functional and accommodative orthotics.

Functional plantar fasciitis insoles are designed to allow the foot to get more rest when in the neutral position. This is when the foot the least amount of stress is applied to the foot and there is little or no excessive motion which creates the plantar fasciitis condition. In other words, this type of insole prevents abnormal motion and promotes correct movement. Accommodative insoles act by directing the foot to a neutral position. This is most useful in special cases such as diabetic patients who require localized relief from painful spots. A rigid base would only cause more pain and therefore requires a more adaptable support structure.

The following are some widely used over-the-counter insoles available.

• Powerstep ProTech
• Powerstep Pinnacle Maxx
• Superfeet Green Premium
• Samurai Insoles
• Corefit Custom Orthotics
• ArchCrafters

When Custom Shoe Inserts Are Required

When examining the underlying costs behind the higher price tags of custom made orthotics shoe inserts, it is revealed that it is not merely the device that contributes to the cost. It is the costs associated to diagnosing each patient’s specific condition, the treatment and corrections incorporated for the future. Initially you could settle with off-the-shelf orthotics but in the instance the pain escalates it is best to stop experimenting with these general options and consult a podiatrist. After assessing the severity of your condition, a podiatrist may recommend you get a custom made insert which would be uniquely designed for your foot motion, targeting your foot abnormality.