Upstep Answers
Our team answers your questions about the causes and treatment of various podiatric conditions, including plantar fasciitis, flat feet, foot pain, and the use of custom orthotics.
Recent Answers
Shin Splints and Knee Pain: Is There a Connection?
Shin splints describe various conditions causing pain and discomfort in the front part of the tibia (shinbone), resulting from the overuse of the surrounding muscles and tendons, and should only cause pain in the shins. Overtraining and inadequate footwear often contribute to this condition, which manifests as top-of-shin pain and mild lower leg swelling. Can Shin Splints Cause Knee Pain? While shin splints should only cause pain in the shins, they may sometimes lead to knee pain due to the anatomical relationship between the lower leg muscles and the knee joint. Muscles attaching to the front of the tibia also cross the knee joint. When overworked or fatigued, these muscles can disrupt knee joint alignment and stability, causing pain. However, several other factors can contribute to knee pain: Aging: As we age, the cartilage in the knee joint wears out, potentially leading to knee pain over time.Injury: Injuries to structures in and around the knee joint, such as tendons, ligaments, or menisci, can cause knee pain.Arthritis: Arthritic conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout can result in knee pain.Runner's knee: Also known as patellofemoral pain syndrome, runner's knee causes pain around the patella at the front of the knee.Obesity: Excess weight increases the burden on the knees, leading to knee pain. Say Goodbye to Knee and Shin Pain Orthotics can not only alleviate existing knee pain and shin splints but also help prevent them. Custom-made insoles provide pain relief by ensuring proper foot alignment, offering tailored arch support, comfort, and optimal energy transfer during motion. Give Upstep's custom orthotics a try and experience the difference they can make in managing shin splints and knee pain.
Asked 6 months ago
Should You Use Hard or Soft Orthotics for Plantar Fasciitis?
Walking with plantar fasciitis is painful. Thankfully, orthotics can often be used to help address the pain. Research has shown that orthotics can improve function and relieve pain in adults with acute plantar fasciitis. The question then remains whether to choose hard or soft orthotics. What Should Orthotics for Plantar Fasciitis Have? Choosing a hard or soft orthotic is secondary in handling plantar fasciitis, as they each have different benefits. The things you definitely should look for in a pair of foot orthotics for plantar fasciitis pain relief are: Deep heel cups Orthotics with deep heel cups absorb shock and any additional stress when walking or running on a hard surface. They also act as a foot stabilizer that maintains natural foot alignment during intense sporting activities. Excellent cushioning A good orthotic must have good cushioning pads to absorb shock and increase comfort. A layer of resilient foam or an EVA cushioned foam layer can work in this case. Fit and comfortable It must be designed to fit your feet perfectly. Over-the-counter orthotics are not the best option because of this. Instead, custom-designed orthotics will factor in your foot shape and condition to guarantee a perfect fit and comfort. » Seeking alternative methods to treat your plantar fasciitis? Check out our guide on pressure points for plantar fasciitis When to Choose Hard or Soft Orthotics for Plantar Fasciitis Your choice of whether to go for a hard or soft orthotic depends entirely on what you need. If you require firm support, then hard orthotics is ideal. A soft orthotic is ideal for taking pressure off the foot. If you’re new to using insoles but have plantar fasciitis pain, try semi-rigid orthotic arch support that provides a fine blend of support, flexibility, and comfort. » Need more help choosing? Check out our guide on the best orthotics for flat feet and plantar fasciitis
Asked 6 months ago
Should I Wear Orthotics All the Time?
Custom orthotics are designed specifically for your feet and intended to restore them to their ideal condition. There is no such thing as wearing them too much, but at some point, your podiatrist may say that it is alright to stop wearing them, or only to wear them during certain activities. Generally, you should wear custom orthotics whenever possible, but there are times when it matters more than others. It is more important to wear your insoles when your feet will be working hard, standing for long periods, or exercising. It is less important to wear them when you are sitting for an extended time, like at your desk or in front of the TV. What if You Don't Wear Orthotics All the Time? If you don't wear your orthotics as prescribed, you are unlikely to get the desired results. Either the improvement will take longer than it should, or you won't feel the benefits of orthotics at all. How to Wear Your Orthotics All the Time To make sure you can wear your orthotics as recommended, order at least two pairs for differently styled shoes. Get a pair for flats, sports shoes, and sneakers, and another pair designed for dress shoes. This way you're covered so that no matter what the occasion is, you'll be able to wear orthotics.
Asked 6 months ago
Do You Need Bigger Shoes to Wear Insoles?
Insoles are used by many people globally to provide comfort to the feet, relieve symptoms from various conditions that affect the feet, and prevent injuries from occurring. Insoles can be custom-made to specifically support your foot in all the areas required for maximum comfort. Insoles are a cost-effective, safe way to effectively manage various conditions affecting the feet and can be used between shoes interchangeably. Insoles play an important role in redistributing the weight throughout the foot, reducing pressure points that may lead to discomfort. Reducing foot fatigue and preventing injuries in the ankle and foot are other benefits of wearing insoles in your shoes during your daily or sporting activities. Can Insoles Fit In Your Normal Shoes? Yes, usually insoles fit comfortably in normal shoes. In some cases, you might find that your shoe may be too small to wear your insoles. This is commonly seen in some women's shoes, whilst most men's shoes should accommodate insoles comfortably. Orthotic insoles can be custom-made and altered to fit exactly into a specific shoe to provide you with the best level of comfort throughout the day. It is important to ensure that the insoles fit correctly within your shoes and do not crowd the toes or feet. It may take some time at first for your feet to adapt to the support felt while wearing orthotics, thereafter comfort and relief should be the norm whilst making use of them. » Looking for the right fit? Discover the best insoles for wide feet Are Bigger Shoes Necessary for Insoles? You don’t usually need to get bigger shoes when using insoles unless the shoe is already extremely tight-fitting. The insole size is specific to your foot size and should fit comfortably in the shoes you already may have. Upstep has a range of orthotics to choose from which cover a range of conditions that may affect your feet. We have orthotics for bunions, flat feet, plantar fasciitis, and other heel pain-related conditions. The mold of your feet is done in the comfort of your own home and is shipped back to you upon completion of manufacturing. Upstep has a 120-day money-back guarantee on orthotics purchased.
Asked 6 months ago
How to Choose the Best Insoles for Overweight People
Being overweight can lead to increased pressure on the feet and may eventually lead to complications like bunions, flat feet, heel pain, and plantar fasciitis. You can protect and support the feet with the use of orthotic insoles to help prevent further complications from arising. Features of Good Insoles for Overweight People You should look for insoles that come with supportive, cushioned padding—preferably made from a rigid material, as this is less likely to lose its intensity over time. Insoles made out of softer materials may collapse after a few months and will potentially cause a host of additional problems with continuous use. Finding insoles that best suit and support your specific foot shape is helpful in getting the best out of orthotics. If you have any of the conditions listed above, there are orthotics specifically designed to manage and prevent the worsening of these conditions. An orthotic that provides support to areas that may not require it could actually cause your condition to get worse, necessitating the need for custom orthotics instead of generic insoles. » Can't find the right fit? Discover the best insoles for wide feet Best Insoles for Overweight People Thicker insoles made from rigid materials are a good cost-effective and long-term choice. Identifying the type of orthotics you need is a vital first step and deciding whether you will benefit from orthotics. Spend some time observing the shape of your foot and what areas you are experiencing symptoms in before making a purchase. Heel pain can be managed with specific insoles to limit the force during heel strikes. Pain associated with plantar fasciitis or bunions can be integrated into the optimum insoles for your feet to provide you with maximum comfort throughout the day. Upstep has a selection of custom orthotics for you to manage a range of conditions. Visit our online store to help you choose the right insoles for your condition.
Asked 6 months ago
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