All about orthopedic insoles and heel pads
What is an orthopedic insole or a gel heel pad?
Orthopedic insoles and heel pads are medical devices placed inside the shoes to correct the posture of the foot, distribute support and reduce mechanical stress on the joints.
They can help compensate for a difference in length between the legs. They also relieve joint or muscle pain. Finally, they improve comfort on a daily basis.
The sole covers the entire sole of the foot acting on all the supports. It can be more or less fine and discreet depending on the action sought. Often used as a preventive measure or to provide additional comfort, it can also be custom-designed to correct a specific disorder of foot statics.
The heel pad, on the other hand, is placed only under the heel. It could be used to: compensate for a difference in length between the legs, absorb shocks or relieve tendonitis of the Achilles tendon by reducing the tension exerted on it. Finally, the heel pad can be used to soothe pain related to heel spurs.
When should orthopedic insoles or heel pads be used?
Insoles and heel pads are indicated in many situations. They can be prescribed to correct foot static disorders, such as flat, hollow or valgus feet, which can lead to poor support distribution and sometimes cause ankle, knee or back pain.
They are also useful for relieving certain inflammatory, joint or tendon pathologies, such as plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, Achilles tendonitis, or pain related to osteoarthritis.
If there is an uneven length of the legs, a heel pad can compensate for the imbalance and improve the symmetry of the walk.
In sports, at work or on a daily basis, they also help absorb repeated shocks, distribute pressure, reduce the risk of injury, or simply improve comfort in shoes.
Finally, they are sometimes prescribed following orthopaedic surgery or as part of rehabilitation, in order to support recovery and make travel safer.
The heel pad for heel spurs
Heel spurs are particularly useful in the management of heel spurs. It is a bony growth located under the heel that causes sharp pain with each step.
By providing targeted cushioning, they reduce pressure on the painful area and limit inflammation of the plantar fascia.
They thus allow you to walk more comfortably and relieve daily pain, especially in the morning or after a long period of standing.
What are the benefits of insoles and heel pads?
The main benefit of insoles and heel pads is to improve the distribution of pressure exerted on the foot. By correcting imbalances and supporting fragile areas, they reduce local pain and prevent the appearance of tension in other joints, such as the knee, hip or back.
They also promote better gait stability. For athletes, they provide additional comfort and can improve performance by reducing muscle fatigue and optimising support.
How to choose your insoles or heel pads?
The choice always depends on the patient's needs. A person with chronic pain or foot problems can often benefit from custom-made insoles. These insoles are made by a podiatrist and adapt to the shape of the patient's feet and the way the patient walks. For occasional needs, such as relieving tendonitis, foot pain or for comfort, standard insoles or heel pads may be sufficient.
It is important to consider the type of shoes worn: some models are designed to fit thin shoes, while others require wider shoes to ensure optimal comfort.
Instructions for use and maintenance
Insoles and heel pads must be worn regularly to be effective. They can be used daily, at work or during leisure time, and must be adapted gradually, especially if they are designed to have a significant effect on posture.
Their care depends on the material: foam or gel soles are usually cleaned with a damp cloth, while leather or custom-made models may require special care.
Like any medical device subject to wear and tear, they must be replaced as soon as their effectiveness decreases or they show signs of deterioration.
