Our custom-made insoles are an effective solution for painful symptoms that result from having flat feet (pes planus). Dr Insole’s orthotics for flat feet provide support for foot arches, preventing overpronation and helping with foot realignment. Wearing our insoles improves foot posture, which results in more effective shock absorption and better weight and impact distribution. With Dr Insole’s orthotics for flat feet, foot and leg pain is greatly reduced and the risk of injuries is significantly lower.

Maintaining healthy body weight and wearing appropriate, well-fitted shoes is extremely important if you have flat foot deformity. If you experience symptoms such as pain in your foot arches or heels, leg or lower back pain, swelling around the ankles, or if your feet often feel stiff and tired, then made-to-order shoe insoles may be the answer to your problems.

What are flat feet?

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, is one of the most common foot conditions. It is estimated that it affects one in five people in Britain.

Normally, when people stand, there is a space on the inside of the foot between the toes and the ankle (called the arch or the instep) that does not come in contact with the ground. If the arch is very low, or if the whole surface of the foot touches the ground, and no gaps between the sole of the foot and the surface are visible, it indicates flat foot deformity.

What causes flat feet?

Flat feet can be hereditary – the condition often runs in families. They may also result from an injury to tendons or bones. Sometimes they are caused by certain illnesses, such as arthritis, diabetes and other diseases affecting muscles and nervous system. There are also some contributing factors that may increase the risk of flat feet such as obesity and pregnancy. Sometimes flat foot deformity develops gradually and is linked to the aging and wear and tear of tendons.

What are the symptoms of flat feet?

Some people do not experience any problems or symptoms typically associated with flat feet. Some, however, develop pain in the arch area, heel, ankle or knees. This usually happens because the natural alignment of feet and legs is affected. They may also notice swelling around the ankles.

Overpronation is sometimes also present with flat foot deformity. This occurs when your feet roll excessively to the inside when walking or running, putting too much weight on the inner side of the foot. As a result, the foot loses its stability and becomes misaligned. That can result in pain in your feet, ankles, knees, hips and even lower back. Excessive pronation is also a common cause of sports injuries, as it puts too much pressure on the tendons, bones and ligaments of the foot.

How can we help?

At Dr Insole, we can provide insoles tailor-made to your feet and your needs. We begin by making a plaster cast of your feet and taking a carbon print, which is then analysed to design insoles that provide support and comfort, and help avoid overpronation.

The base of our insoles is a blend of EVA and granulated cork, which is a light, flexible and durable material. As cork is a great shock absorber, it provides protection for your joints and bones and reduces the risk of foot and leg injuries. Cork is also breathable and has great insulating properties, helping to protect your feet from ground conditions.

Dr Insole’s custom-made orthotics designed and prepared especially for your feet, offer the ultimate fit and support. They can also be beneficial in treating the condition, correcting flat foot deformity and preventing any further deterioration. When worn, orthotic insoles control and align your feet, improve your gait in case of overpronation and help your feet to absorb shock evenly. As a result, they bring relief to painful, swollen feet and protect them from injuries.