Why don’t my orthotics work in my runners?

Orthotics have been around for a long time. Essentially, they are a device designed to support the foot and improve its function. They can either be prefabricated or custom-made when prescribed by a podiatrist. If you currently wear orthotics you may find that they work great in your dress or casual shoes but not so well in your runners.

So why aren’t they working in your runners?

If your orthotics work well in other shoes then it is generally an issue with the runners. Runners have changed a lot over the years and they have become very technologically advanced, with models often changing each year. The technology in runners can often change the mechanics of the foot causing issues when combined with an orthotic.

Reasons why your orthotics aren’t working in your runners

Your runners have an arch

More and more runners made in recent times have a higher arch in them which means with an orthotic you might be putting an arch support on top of an arch. This will result in over correction of foot mechanics and is often the main reason why your orthotics aren’t working in your runners.

Your runners are too soft

Your runners may be too soft to support your weight. The foams and EVA midsole of runners are becoming lighter and softer in recent times. If it is too soft (especially for people who are heavier in weight) then they can collapse often causing an unwanted shift in your foot mechanics.

Your runners are too firm

Your foot needs to move to function. A little foot pronation is essential for shock absorption when walking or running. If your runners are too firm for your foot type, then this may restrict this essential movement, adding an orthotic will only make it worse. This will result in decreased shock absorption and over correction, often leading to lower leg symptoms.

Your runners may be adding correction

If your runners are a stability shoe then they are designed to add correction to the foot and stop it from excessively pronating. Adding extra support with an orthotic will most likely over correct your foot mechanics, making things uncomfortable. For this reason, neutral runners are often recommended for people who wear orthotics.

Simple is often the best when it comes to orthotic friendly shoes

Orthotics generally work best in shoes that are simple in design and have no arch. These shoes don’t add any additional correctional forces on the foot, allowing your orthotic to function independently. This allows your orthotic to function at its optimum.

The problem with runners is all the technology and design features which often affect foot mechanics. They also often change these features each year making it a nightmare for podiatrists when prescribing orthotics.

See a podiatrist if you are having issues with your orthotics

If you are having issues with your orthotics in your runners then make an appointment with one of our Melbourne podiatrists for assessment. We can assess your gait, your orthotics and your runners, to help diagnose common issues, whilst finding the best solution.

Having issues with your orthotics and runners?

At our Melbourne foot clinic our podiatrists are experts in foot function, orthotic therapy and custom orthotic prescription.

So if you  are having issues with your orthotics or runners, book an appointment with one of our friendly podiatrists today!