If you are an avid runner, you may wonder if it's possible to run comfortably and efficiently while wearing custom orthotics in your favorite running shoes.
You should be encouraged by the many runners who engage in the sport even after suffering shin splints and weak ankles. For many injured runners, their custom orthotics help them continue enjoying their races and early-morning runs. Here's more information about custom orthotics and running shoes that you should know:
Know that you will go slower but be safer
Researchers recently set out to see how important the arch is when running. It turns out that arches are like mighty foot springs that store and release energy right when our leg muscles need a boost.
Custom orthotics that dampen or remove arch action when you're running will lower your speed and efficiency. But that's no reason to face injury by refusing to wear your custom orthotics. You should always follow your podiatrist's recommendations about the activities that require your orthotics, even if you don't feel strain or pain.
Walking does not involve the arch in the same way, so it's normally safe to recover from a serious injury by walking in the custom orthotics before you plunge straight into running. Walking also builds up muscles you need to overcome any arch suppression.
Try on running shoes in person
Don't rely on others' advice about the best-fitting running shoe to wear over your custom orthotics. Go to the sporting goods store yourself to try on the different brands. Each person's feet are unique from every other person's feet and so are your custom orthotic inserts.
It is recommended that you stick to neutral shoes that don't have corrective designs. Your orthotics are designed to work in standard shoes, so you don't need any additional arch buildup or other corrective shoe features. Straight lasts are also a good idea, since many modern, minimalist running shoes don't have the support you want with your corrective orthotics.
Ask about alternative materials
If your orthotics are too stiff for running, ask your podiatrist about newer materials and 3D printing that make the custom orthotics more form-fitting and comfortable.
Retailers and researchers are working on 3D-printed inserts that come in up to a thousand different blends for different degrees of softness for diabetes and orthotic patients. You may soon be able to have your foot doctor or physical therapist print out custom orthotics that fit perfectly in your luckiest pair of running shoes. How's that for completely personalized syncing of running shoes and orthotics?
Share28 October 2016
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