ankle pain running. info - what are running orthotics?
orthotics are orthopaedic devices that are placed in a runners shoes in an attempt to correct lower limb biomechanical abnonormality. They are made out of a variety of compounds including rigid 
materials such as carbon fibre. At ankle pain running. info we feel that the orthotic should not compromise the shock absorbency of the sports shoe it is worn in so all our orthotics are made from compounds that are used by the leading sports footwear manufacturers. Many runners wear our orthotics a testament to how comfortable and effective they really are. To see our parent site visit www.sportspodiatry.co.uk
The aim of the running foot orthotic is to correct dysfunctional biomechanics and therefore:
- Reduce pain
- Provide support
- Prevent or halt the development of foot deformity
- Provide better positioning
- Relieve pressure on a certain area of the foot
- Improve the overall biomechanical function of the foot and the lower limb
- Help prevent lower limb injury
- Speed up rehabilitation after injury
ankle pain running. info - Types of running orthotics
There are three types of orthotics: soft, semirigid, and rigid.
![[Soft Orthotic Image]](images/soft.jpg)
A soft orthotic is pictured here. Its function is to provide cushion, improve shock absorption, decrease shear force, and redistribute pressure. This type of orthotic is indicated for a rigid foot. It provides little support which is not needed in this particular instance. The most important aspect is to cushion the rigid foot and decrease the force so that injury is prevented. a Good example of a schock absorbing orthotic/ insole is the ones manufactured by sorbathane
![[Semi-rigid Orthotic Image]](images/semi.jpg)
The next is a semirigid orthotic which is seen here. This orthotic functions to control or balance the malaligned foot as well as provide some flexibility and shock absorption. It has increased compliance and is the most common orthoic prescribed. Those individuals with flat feet are the beneficiaries of this type of orthotic.
Finally, the rigid orthotic serves to control gross unwanted motion. It is not accommodating and offers no shock absorption or cushioning. This type of orthotic is indicated for the neurologic patient that has poor control of their feet.
Think you need running orthotics?
If so it is advisable to have a consultation with a sports podiatrist to have a full biomechanical evaluation to determine whether or not you have a biomechanical problem that would benefit from an orthotic prescription. If you live in the northwest of England have a look at our visit sports podiatry.co.uk. otherwise click on one of our sponsored links.