The use of insoles and heel pads is quite common in the treatment of conditions such as spurs, Plantar Fasciitis, and Achilles Tendonitis.
Insoles and heel pads are made from a variety of shock absorbent materials, and are either full length, ? length, or just fit a specific part of the foot, for example heel cups.
One of the most popular brands of insoles is Sorbothane. Sorbothane is a synthetic material that mimics the characteristics of human tissue, which means that it can recover its shape completely after each 'shock'.
Used in footwear, it has been demonstrated to absorb almost 95% of the shock waves of a foot striking a hard surface. This shock absorption translates to reduced muscle fatigue, protecting weak joints and reducing the strain on ligaments and tendons.
These products can either be used on top of existing insoles, or instead of them, and are popular in sports such as running, football, rugby, basketball and golf. Other popular brands include Spenco and Noene.
Heel pads are designed to help reduce tension in the calf muscles and Achilles tendon, or else reduce the pain from bony spurs or Plantar Fasciitis (inflammation to the sole/arch of the foot).
Using absorbent materials and even gel cushioning, they reduce stress from the underside of the foot, helping to relieve painful symptoms.
