The Role of Orthopedic Insoles in Preventing Fitness Injuries

Have you ever wondered why even the most experienced athletes suffer from foot, knee, or lower back pain? The answer often lies in improper foot support. Engaging in sports and fitness activities places significant stress on the muscles and joints, increasing the risk of injuries over time. One effective way to minimize this risk is by using orthopedic insoles. How does it work, explains rheumatologist and general practitioner Ekaterina Leonchik of Kandinsky Clinic.

For Injury Prevention and Recovery

Whether for injury prevention or recovery, orthopedic insoles are an essential tool for maintaining joint health and enhancing athletic performance. Orthopedic insoles for sports shoes are needed to protect the muscles and joints, which are under increasing strain during sports, as well as to treat and prevent injuries and relieve excessive strain. These specially designed inserts provide essential support, improve foot alignment, and help distribute pressure more evenly, reducing excessive strain on the lower limbs.

Needed by Both Athletes and Amateurs

Specialised insoles are needed by both athletes and amateurs. It ensures the correct biomechanics of movement not only of the feet, but also of the entire musculoskeletal system. The insoles facilitate pushing off when running or pedalling a bicycle, absorb shock loads when jumping, and increase the comfort of wearing sports shoes. Thanks to these insoles, you get better results and less fatigue with the same effort. A sport that brings pleasure and joy of your own achievements without injuries and pain becomes a reality thanks to quality insoles.

Sports Shoes Don’t Provide Sufficient Support

As a rule, even sports shoes don’t provide sufficient support for the arch of the foot. Sports shoes are universal and don’t take into account the individual features of the foot. It is these features that insoles help to compensate for. Besides it makes sports more comfortable, it also protects from injury and overload of muscles and joints not only of the feet, but also of the whole body.

4 Main Characteristics of Proper Insoles are as follows:

• Cushioning
  

  Insoles should be ‘springy’ and flexible to ensure correct biomechanics of movement of the entire musculoskeletal system.

• Breathable Materials

  Otherwise the shoe will become damp from sweat, the foot will slip inside the shoe, which increases the risk of injury.

• Softness

  Insoles shouldn’t rub the feet and should provide comfortable long-term use.

• Anti-Bacterial Effect

  Materials should prevent bacterial growth and the appearance of unpleasant odour.

Important to Consider Existing Foot, Joint and Spine Conditions

It is also important to consider existing foot, joint and spine conditions. For example, in the case of flat feet, additional support of the foot arch is necessary, otherwise overloading and painful sensations may occur after sports activities.

Orthopaedic Insoles Help the Musculoskeletal System

Orthopaedic insoles help the musculoskeletal system to manage increased loads and avoid injuries. It performs a shock-absorbing function, preventing the development of osteoarthritis and other pathologies. The insoles help to distribute the load correctly and engage the right muscles, preventing overstrain.

Important to Take into Account the Type of Sport and the Most Frequent Loads

When choosing insoles, it is important to take into account the type of sport and the most frequent loads. For example, for runners, insoles should be soft to provide cushioning, while for cyclists, they should be stiffer to efficiently transfer energy from the foot to the pedals. The right insoles will ensure protection, comfort, and improved results.