Should You Use Orthotic Insoles for Supination?
Learn about supination, its risks and causes, what footwear you should use, and if orthotic insoles can help treat the problem.
Updated March 27, 2023.
Supination is the external rotation of the foot. It occurs when you bear weight on the outer edges of your feet while moving. This can place undue stress on your foot causing conditions like plantar fasciitis, ankle sprains, IT band syndrome (overuse injury of connective tissues), stress fractures, Achilles tendinitis, etc.
What Are the Risks and Causes of Supination?
The following are common risk factors and causes of supination:
- Genetics Supination can be transmitted through the genes that affect the foot structure.
- Ankle injuries Previous history of ankle injuries can predispose you to a supination defect.
- Structural problems These include bow legs, weak ankle muscles, loose ligaments, and limb length discrepancy.
- Exercise Whether too much or too little, exercise can lead to supination.
Can Insoles Correct Supination?
Yes, there are custom insoles to correct supination. This kind of supination orthotics will support the feet and distribute the pressure evenly across your foot while ensuring that your foot remains neutrally aligned. When choosing a custom insole to correct supination, choose one that is firm, durable, has a deep heel cup, and has an arch that follows the curves of your feet.
What Footwear Should a Supinator Wear?
Neutral shoes with an extra cushion or shock absorption qualities are recommended. Asides from this, different footwear made by New Balance, Chaco, Saucony, and Birkenstock footwear are touted to help supinators. As a general rule, look for shoes that:
- Have curved edges to allow for pronation.
- Are made from flexible and lightweight materials that allow more foot motion.
- Have flexible medial (inner) sides.
» Looking to alleviate foot pain? Purchase the best insoles for supination
The Bottom Line
Supination can quickly become problematic if not dealt with decisively. You can easily fix this with the right supination orthotics. As such, contact a specialist to have a custom insole made for you to correct your supination.
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