Shoe Insoles:

Shoe insoles are any kind of shoe insert. They are non-prescription, pre-packaged and mass-produced inserts designed to be worn inside a shoe to support foot arches.

Insoles can be very helpful by adding cushioning, comfort and some arch support. However, they usually do NOT correct bunions or plantar fasciitis. Nor do they correct biomechanical foot problems or cure long-standing foot issues.

Unless the device has been prescribed by a doctor and crafted for your specific foot and no one else. It’s a shoe insert, not a custom orthotic device—despite what an advertisement may claim.

The most common types of shoe insoles are:

Arch supports: These tend to have a “bumped-up” appearance and are designed to support the foot’s natural arch. Though they sometimes may appear to be a good support, once standing and walking, the material often collapses under body weight.

Insoles: Insoles slip into your shoe to provide extra cushioning and support. Insoles are often made of gel, foam, or plastic.

Heel liners: Heel liners, sometimes called heel pads or heel cups, provide extra cushioning in the heel region. They may be especially useful for patients who have foot pain caused by age-related thinning of the heels’ natural fat pads.

Foot cushions: Do your shoes rub against your heel or your toes? Foot cushions come in many different shapes and sizes and can be used as a barrier between you and your shoe.

Which Insoles do I need?

If you are simply looking for extra cushioning or support, you may wish to try an over-the-counter shoe insert first.

If you have serious pain or discomfort, however, schedule an appointment with Dr. Horowitz so that you can gain clear answers to your concerns and a clear diagnosis. Without this in hand, you may waste precious time and money on products that may not help and suffer needlessly.

Dr. Horowitz will teach you how to choose the right type of shoes for your feet and determine if over-the-counter shoe inserts will be adequate or if you need prescription foot orthotics.

If custom-orthotics are needed, a three-dimensional image of each foot will be captured along with a TOG computerized Gait Scan. Those images, as well as other measurements,  are used to create a set of unique foot supports that will improve your foot function and lead to more comfort and mobility.

If needed, Dr. Horowitz will additional on-site treatments to control pain and inflammation with on-site clinic services.

Have Questions about how Toronto Orthotics can help?

Toronto Orthotics Foot, Leg and Back Pain Clinic

Relief from Plantar Fasciitis, Foot, Leg and Lower Back Pain

Contact us by calling (647) 349-4909 or ask Dr. Horowitz a question by filling out this form below: