If you suffer from any foot ailments such as diabetes, chronic plantar fasciitis or if you just have flat feet it is recommended that you get specific inserts for shoes that you wear. This will be able to heal your foot pain while walking, running etc and in some instances even reverse the effects on your feet that your previous shoes had.

Different Types Of Shoe Insert

The type of shoe insert that support the arches – Certain people have feet with high arches and some with low arches. These inserts for shoes will be able provide support for the natural type of arch that your foot has. To find out whether you have a high or low arch, put your foot in a tub of water and then put it on a piece of cardboard. If most of your footprint is visible then it means you have a low arch. If very little of your foot is visible then you have a high arch.

Inserts for shoes that are known as insoles – These insoles are usually made up of gel, foam or plastic and are made to give a sense of cushioning to your feet and arch. These insoles can be removed and washed and air dried in between walking sessions.

The shoe insert that is known as heel liners, heel pads or heel cushions – This type are made to give extra support and cushioning effect to the heel area. These are effective in relieving the heel pain that is due to the thinning of the natural fat pads of the heel in older aged people. If included with an ankle collar and an Achilles notch it is able to cushion the ankle and make sure that it fits perfectly thereby reducing the pressure put on the Achilles tendon.

Specific Prescription For Your Shoe Insert

If the purpose of buying a shoe insert is for just simple cushioning or extra support then it is possible to opt for an insert for shoes over the counter. In case you are having grave pain and discomfort in your foot then you may need to visit a podiatrist who can prescribe a customized shoe insert for your specific foot ailment. Podiatrists are specifically qualified to examine the biomechanics of the lower limbs. They would take your full history and perform a clinical examination of your foot and how you walk to come up with the right type of insert.