We have been fitting patients with Posture Control Insoles (PCIs) for several years now with great success. But are PCIs only for those with flat arches or sore feet?

Posture Control Insoles are full length insoles with a slightly elevated area (between 3mm and 9mm) under the inside of the forefoot. This are is basically under the big toe and ball of the foot.

Every time we take a step (walking or running) we push off from this part of our foot. The problem for many of us is that our feet have to ‘roll in’ in order for our big toe to reach the ground. Roughly 80% of us roll in to some degree due to our big toe being elevated. This rolling in is called overpronation. Exactly how much we pronate varies from person to person. The photo to the right shows someone with elevated big toes. When they stand with their ankle aligned, their big toes don’t touch the ground!

For some of us that overpronate, there will be consequences. These include foot pain, knee pain, hip pain or low back pain. PCIs help to stimulate the foot to train it not to roll in. They don’t hold the foot in position like rigid orthotics, so the foot muscles don’t become weak from relying on them.

But what about people with an elevated first toe that don’t have pain? Are they at a disadvantage? Do they need insoles?

Have a read of the article below by Bryan Hoddle about his experience with using Posture Control Insoles for athletes. Coach Bryan Hoddle has taught for over 30 years in public schools in the State of Washington, USA. He was Head Coach for the 2004 USA Paralympics Track and Field Team. Coaching high school track and field, his track athletes have won 26 state championships, as well as numerous national age group titles.

Sorry about the large size of the file (20MB!), but it’s a good read:

https://www.mortonsfoot.com/articles/WA_Coach_Winning.pdf

Feel free to contact us today if you would like to know more about Posture Control Insoles and whether they might be right for you.