Why are you using inserts? What specific issue(s) do you need to address?
Because, all other things being equal, all things are never equal, and one man's
(or woman's) cure is another's poison.
My experience -- I have remarkably flat feet (and have had for ~30 years), and over
the past few years, I've developed arthritis in my big toes, which walking exacerbates.
So much so that, a year ago, I was in so much pain that I started limping when I walked.
Saw my physician, who referred me to a podiatrist. He prescribed Powerstep inserts,
which provided some relief. As did the (prescribed) Ibuprofen, which I used for a few weeks.
On my own, I tried SOLE inserts, which also worked for me -- replaced the stock inserts
in my Merrells (Moab & Ventilator) with blue SOLE inserts, and used red in my Saucony Ride 4s.
I now use the Powersteps for my dress shoes. (I also tried Superfeet, which provided me
with no relief at all.)
Flash forward 4 months -- inspired by some colleagues (and wanting to lose 5-10 pounds),
I started running (as well as strength training). See this link:
http://community.active.com/thread/248568/any-recommendations-from-50-former-walkers
Arthritis started improving, which I attribute to both the inserts and the running.
After running for a few months while (working my way up to runs of 2 to 4 miles),
I went to a local, well-stocked running store. Picked up a relatively neutral shoe
with less heel-to-toe drop and a more cushioning under the forefoot (Brooks Ghost 5).
I find that I can run & walk in these shoes without inserts.
So, again -- what issue(s) are you trying to address with inserts? With the right shoe,
you may not need them. Consult your physician if you haven't -- don't just go by what
store personnel advise, even if they're honest & well-meaning.
- Richard
Facebook
MySpace
YouTube
Twitter