Why standard orthotics and arch supports don’t always work

People tend to think they need arch supports to heal collapsed arches. But giving direct support to a weakened arch can cause it to weaken more. This is why it may feel a bit better initially but become uncomfortable and more painful with time.

‍

So what’s the answer? 

Your foot is designed to provide a stable platform for both toe-off and landing - this is where standard orthotics and arch supports can help. 

But they’re also designed to be flexible between landing and the next toe-off, so they can respond quickly to uneven surfaces and maintain stability. 

When standard orthotics and arch supports fit snugly against the arch, they block its range of movement and prevent the foot from responding to changes in terrain and uneven surfaces, increasing the likelihood of falling. 

A healthy foot alternates between rigid and pliable throughout the gait pattern, depending on the terrain you’re walking on. The more uniform this oscillation is, the more effectively the foot functions.

I have spent over 10 years developing a way of designing and prescribing orthotics that optimise the oscillation of the foot. We do this by taking innervation, muscular integration and fascial connections into account, not just the foot shape and alignment. 

This globally patented approach yields better outcomes more often, allowing us to provide our patients with more comfort, direct balance and postural stability - even if you’ve had a bad experience with arch supports or standard orthotics previously.