From the Guidelines
For plantar fasciitis, customized orthotic devices are the most effective inserts, as they can be tailored to address individual foot biomechanics and provide optimal support and cushioning. When considering orthotic inserts, it's essential to prioritize features like firm arch support, deep heel cups, and shock absorption, which help distribute pressure evenly across the foot and reduce strain on the plantar fascia 1. Customized orthotic devices, as recommended by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, can be particularly beneficial for patients who do not respond to initial treatment measures, such as stretching exercises, icing, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications. Some key features to look for in orthotic inserts include:
- Firm arch support to maintain proper foot alignment
- Deep heel cups to stabilize the foot and reduce strain on the plantar fascia
- Cushioning in the heel area to absorb impact forces
- Shock absorption to reduce pressure on the foot It's also important to note that while over-the-counter inserts like Superfeet Green or Powerstep Pinnacle can be effective, customized orthotic devices prescribed by a podiatrist may be necessary for severe cases or unique foot structures. Referral to a podiatric foot and ankle surgeon is appropriate if no improvement occurs after six weeks of initial treatment measures 1.
From the Research
Orthotic Inserts for Plantar Fasciitis
The following are some of the best orthotic inserts for plantar fasciitis:
- Customized heel pads and soft orthotics, which have been shown to be effective in reducing pain associated with plantar fasciitis 2
- Custom-made foot orthoses, which can be used in combination with rocker sole shoes to produce a significant reduction in heel pain intensity levels 3
- Prefabricated orthotics, which are less costly and provide similar relief to custom orthotics 4
- CAD/CAM foot orthoses, which can be designed based on dynamic plantar pressure to reduce plantar fascia thickness and pain associated with plantar fasciitis 5
Key Features of Effective Orthotic Inserts
Some key features of effective orthotic inserts for plantar fasciitis include:
- A medium-density Plastazote reinforced with cork in the medial longitudinal arch 2
- A customized insertion of low-density Plastazote 2
- A rocker sole design, which can help to reduce heel pain intensity levels 3
- A design based on dynamic plantar pressure, which can help to reduce plantar fascia thickness and pain associated with plantar fasciitis 5
Comparison of Different Orthotic Inserts
Studies have compared the effectiveness of different orthotic inserts for plantar fasciitis, including:
- Custom-made foot orthoses vs. prefabricated orthotics: custom-made orthoses may be more beneficial for plantar fasciitis than prefabricated orthotics 6
- CAD/CAM foot orthoses vs. night splint only: CAD/CAM foot orthoses can reduce plantar fascia thickness and pain associated with plantar fasciitis, and increase activity of daily living, quality of life, and sports activity 5
- Rocker sole shoes vs. custom-made foot orthoses: a combination of rocker sole shoes and custom-made foot orthoses can produce a significant reduction in heel pain intensity levels 3