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flatfooted
05-17-2013, 13:12
I have flat feet and pronate. I wear custom made orthotics. The orthotics have never worked ideally.

My orthotics are especially a problem in dress shoes. I recently had my ¾ length orthotics made full length, and sized for my current pair of dress shoes. The fit still doesn’t seem quite right. I guess my feet are sliding around in my shoes.

When I lift my heel, while walking, sometimes my toes feel strained; or it feels like there is not enough padding for the ball of my foot. When I take my shoes off, my heels hurt a bit when walking barefoot. Sometimes my toes feel stiff. Perhaps they are pushing against the toebox.

Any suggestions?

Dogwood
05-17-2013, 14:14
If you have custom made orthos and they don't work ideally I'd bring them, the shoes you typically wear them with, socks, and your butt(I guess i should say your feet) right back to whoever did the custom orthos for you. Now, if it IS YOU who decided on custom orthos that might be telling in that YOU are missing something. My after market orthos are sometimes a little different for the different prs of shoes I pair each with and the typical activities I engage in while wearing my different prs of shoes. For example, the after market orthos I use with dress shoes are quite a bit different than the orthos I use in my various hiking shoes. In other words, one DO IT ALL pr or type of orthos for all your different types of shoes and activities MAY NOT BE THE WAY to approach things. Should be obvious that dress shoes and hiking shoes are designed with different goals in mind too. A competent podiatrist usually wants to see the used shoes you spend most of your time in. They will sometimes design orthos factoring in what activities you will be engaged in and what types of shoes you'll typically be wearing when involved in those activities.

If your feet are sliding around prohibitively inside your dress shoes somethings amiss AND it MAY NOT NECESSARILY be the orthos. Could be several things and I hesitate to try to offer meaningful targeted advice without resorting to writing a pamphlet or seeing things in person. I'm no foot doctor either.

There is great variation in dress as well as hiking shoes too. I would experiment with different types of brands and models that are designed for your foot characteristics. To do that first you need to have an understanding of those characteristics. I talked to knowledgeable foot specialists and did some research on line through running websites to learn about my feet. Running websites can teach you a lot about your feet and different types of shoes! Keep in mind, you are not going to address comfortable shoes with orthos IF you don't have shoes that adequately address your foot characteristics or the activity they were designed for in the first place! IMO, the majority of people opt to purchase shoes for whatever activity without first understanding their foot traits and the types of feet, pronation(if any), stride, usage, etc specific shoe models are designed for. I for one, for decades experienced sore feet, knees, ankles, joints, hips, back, posture issues, blisters, etc because I was improperly pairing shoes that didn't fully account for my feet/stride/usage characteristics. Since you are at a hiking website, I will remind you that in order to hike most safely and happily and stay out there for extended periods it really helps to spend the time to get these things right. I've seen A LOT of hikers sidelined because their improper shoes factored into creating a problem.

litefoot2000
05-17-2013, 14:17
I would find a very reputable podiatrist. Perhaps one that specializes in sports injuries.

flatfooted
05-17-2013, 14:35
I have separate orthotics for my dress shoes and gym shoes. My dress shoes are Gramercy, made by Aetrex. My podiatrist recommends them.

heavyfoot
05-17-2013, 14:42
Who made your orthotics? A reputable podiatrist will keep working with you until everything fits and feels right.

flatfooted
05-17-2013, 15:20
I don't know who the company is that makes the orthotics. My podiatrist has been working with me on this, but I feel like maybe he could try to do more to help. I don't feel confident that he is going to be able to really resolve the problem.

RF_ace
05-17-2013, 15:39
Try SOLE brand or redwing brand insoles; I have flat feet as well and they make a world of difference

flatfooted
05-17-2013, 15:54
Use the insoles instead of orthotics?


Try SOLE brand or redwing brand insoles; I have flat feet as well and they make a world of difference

RF_ace
05-17-2013, 16:13
They are close to orthotics, just make everything from the knees to back feel great, a lot less pain

flatfooted
05-17-2013, 16:23
My orthotics keep my knees from getting sore so sore, especially when going up and down hills and stairs. I am skeptical that some inserts can do the job.


They are close to orthotics, just make everything from the knees to back feel great, a lot less pain

rocketsocks
05-17-2013, 16:39
It took me a while to get use to mine, felt like I was walking on a rock. good luck though. I have not had any problems with my feet since I got them...love em. oh, mines are 3/4 length.

flatfooted
05-17-2013, 17:13
They're not orthotics like Spenco Orthotic Arch Supports? I've tried those. (I have to go. Will check in on this conversation later)


It took me a while to get use to mine, felt like I was walking on a rock. good luck though. I have not had any problems with my feet since I got them...love em. oh, mines are 3/4 length.

rocketsocks
05-17-2013, 18:40
They're not orthotics like Spenco Orthotic Arch Supports? I've tried those. (I have to go. Will check in on this conversation later)Mine were plaster cast molded to my feet in the office, then sent out to make a plastic mold...price about $225.00 and a 20 dollar co-pay YPlanMV

RF_ace
05-17-2013, 18:52
These are $60 and they feel Ike memory foam but firmer

rocketsocks
05-17-2013, 21:15
These are $60 and they feel Ike memory foam but firmeri tried the green super feet, funny thing...no matter how hard I wished, they her my feet. When you do find one that works for you... What price wouldn't you pay?


horrible horrible spelling mistakes courtesey of my ipod doing the thinking for me, and sausage fingers.

flatfooted
05-18-2013, 12:30
That's how my orthotics were made. They were about the same price too.


Mine were plaster cast molded to my feet in the office, then sent out to make a plastic mold...price about $225.00 and a 20 dollar co-pay YPlanMV

rocketsocks
05-18-2013, 12:44
That's how my orthotics were made. They were about the same price too.ya know...there's always the chance that they....screwed up, maybe ask your doctor to repeat the process.

RF_ace
05-18-2013, 12:56
Nah, these don't even compare to super feet. Rei sells them under the SOLE brand, Ed Viesturs edition

flatfooted
05-18-2013, 13:25
I have an older pair of orthotics, I have the same problem with them.


ya know...there's always the chance that they....screwed up, maybe ask your doctor to repeat the process.

My orthotics are more comfortable in my gym shoes, but I get still cramps in my calves, and sometimes my feet. I think it's because I slouch forward, and it puts tension on my calves. I rarely got cramps until I got my orthotics. I don't know if it's the fault of the orthotics though.

I'm afraid to go on hikes that are much more than two hours because I'm afraid I'll cramp up too much.

rocketsocks
05-18-2013, 13:47
Nah, these don't even compare to super feet. Rei sells them under the SOLE brand, Ed Viesturs editionhey I'll give em a try on your say so (lord know's I've tried many others) been wanting to find a good set in additon to the ones I have to put in my other shoes. It gets old taking them out each time you wanna wear a different pair....thanks for the tip.

rocketsocks
05-18-2013, 13:58
I have an older pair of orthotics, I have the same problem with them.



My orthotics are more comfortable in my gym shoes, but I get still cramps in my calves, and sometimes my feet. I think it's because I slouch forward, and it puts tension on my calves. I rarely got cramps until I got my orthotics. I don't know if it's the fault of the orthotics though.

I'm afraid to go on hikes that are much more than two hours because I'm afraid I'll cramp up too much.yeah, I hear ya, can't really offer anymore that hasn't already been said here, I sure hope you get this resolved...I feel your pain. :)

and not to leave you feeling hopeless, but being in construction for 30 years I've tried many inserts over the years and spent maybe $500 bucks looking for the perfect fit and the elusive "Hey, I feel like I'm walking on a cloud".....it doesn't exists(except for the first day) walking on your feets by it's very nature puts a beatin on em.

Patrickjd9
05-18-2013, 15:15
I have full-length orthotics that I everywhere except in my all-leather backpacking boots. They just don't seem to work quite right in them, seem to take up a little too much volume.

Dogwood
05-19-2013, 00:00
I have an older pair of orthotics, I have the same problem with them. My orthotics are more comfortable in my gym shoes, but I get still cramps in my calves, and sometimes my feet. I think it's because I slouch forward, and it puts tension on my calves. I rarely got cramps until I got my orthotics. I don't know if it's the fault of the orthotics though.

I'm afraid to go on hikes that are much more than two hours because I'm afraid I'll cramp up too much.

You're running a lot of potential issues /questions together which are hard to intelligently address collectively. Break things down and address them singularly. It sometimes helps get to the problem(s).

What may be playing into your orthotics being more comfortable in your gym shoes is simply that gym shoes tend to be more comfortable in the first place. You also said you have separate othos for your dress and athletic shoes so that can also play into how comfortable you feel. I would like to know what SPECIFICALLY the person who crafted the custom orthos were seeking to achieve. If they were primarily addressing pronation especially if it's a severe pronation that can CERTAINLY be, at least in part, part of the seemingly initial discomfort. Correcting pronations or addressing it through othotics can take some time getting used to the new feelings.

Dogwood
05-19-2013, 00:07
I have full-length orthotics that I everywhere except in my all-leather backpacking boots. They just don't seem to work quite right in them, seem to take up a little too much volume.

Which is why after market orthotics come in different volumes. Various volumes of othos are also something I take into account when dialing in shoe fit.

For those who have ever had joint issues, shin splints, easily fatigued muscles, etc have you all ever looked into HOKA brand shoes. They may look like "moon or clown shoes" and you may think they are heavy by their looks(BUT THEY ARE NOT!) but WOW if you want a cushy ride underfoot I know of no other shoe that addresses this as well as the HOKA shoes!

Shutterbug
05-19-2013, 10:28
I have flat feet and pronate. I wear custom made orthotics. The orthotics have never worked ideally.

My orthotics are especially a problem in dress shoes. I recently had my ¾ length orthotics made full length, and sized for my current pair of dress shoes. The fit still doesn’t seem quite right. I guess my feet are sliding around in my shoes.

When I lift my heel, while walking, sometimes my toes feel strained; or it feels like there is not enough padding for the ball of my foot. When I take my shoes off, my heels hurt a bit when walking barefoot. Sometimes my toes feel stiff. Perhaps they are pushing against the toebox.

Any suggestions?

I had the same problem. I was wearing prescription orthotics. My feet were always hurting. One day I decided to try Vibram Five Finger Shoes. I have now been wearing the Vibram Five Finger Shoes for two years with no foot pain. It doesn't work for everyone, but it worked for me.

MuddyWaters
05-19-2013, 12:32
What are you calling an "orthotic"? There are lots of things that could be called that.
From cushion insoles, to molded footbeds, to devices intended to correct foot issues by reshaping the foot and arch.
What is its purpose?
What are you seeking from it?


Making a molded footbed of a bad foot, wont correct anything, but will make shoes fit like a glove.
Reshaping the foot to correct issues wont be comfortable for a long time, but will work in the long term.
Any appliance intended to correct problems, without modifying the foot, would have to be shoe-specific since shoes vary so greatly.

flatfooted
05-19-2013, 12:41
Thanks you for your support.


yeah, I hear ya, can't really offer anymore that hasn't already been said here, I sure hope you get this resolved...I feel your pain. :)

and not to leave you feeling hopeless, but being in construction for 30 years I've tried many inserts over the years and spent maybe $500 bucks looking for the perfect fit and the elusive "Hey, I feel like I'm walking on a cloud".....it doesn't exists(except for the first day) walking on your feets by it's very nature puts a beatin on em.

flatfooted
05-19-2013, 12:52
My knees used to get sore, especially going up and down a lot of hills and steps. I pronate. That is what my orthotics are for. Overall the orthotics have improved things. My knees get sore less often.

I have worn orthotics for 5-6+ years. I can remember. It's not a matter of getting used to them.


I would like to know what SPECIFICALLY the person who crafted the custom orthos were seeking to achieve. If they were primarily addressing pronation especially if it's a severe pronation that can CERTAINLY be, at least in part, part of the seemingly initial discomfort. Correcting pronations or addressing it through othotics can take some time getting used to the new feelings.

flatfooted
05-19-2013, 13:00
I wear an orthotic made from a cast of my foot. Their purpose is to stop my pronation. The orthotics were not made for a specific pair of shoes that I wear. They are made of plastic. They don't fit like a glove in my shoes. I wouldn't be having some of the discomfort if they did.


What are you calling an "orthotic"? There are lots of things that could be called that.
From cushion insoles, to molded footbeds, to devices intended to correct foot issues by reshaping the foot and arch.
What is its purpose?
What are you seeking from it?


Making a molded footbed of a bad foot, wont correct anything, but will make shoes fit like a glove.
Reshaping the foot to correct issues wont be comfortable for a long time, but will work in the long term.
Any appliance intended to correct problems, without modifying the foot, would have to be shoe-specific since shoes vary so greatly.

Dogwood
05-19-2013, 14:53
Thanks you for your support.

Now, I feel like an orthotic. :D

Dogwood
05-19-2013, 15:22
....It's not a matter of getting used to them.

That's not entirely my point. Look at what I said. More to the pt is that attempting to correct pronation, particularly a severe pronation, through the use of orthotics can seem uncomfortable even in the long term.

Getting sore knees or having other joint and/or other musculoskeletal issues can definitely be caused by or be contributed to by a multitude of factors that go way beyond just your custom orthotics. This is a discussion not appropriate to the internet but is best addressed through consultation with a podiatrist and/or orthopedist.

TheYoungOne
05-20-2013, 14:37
I tried everything for my feet from every color of Superfeet makes to poditrist orthotics...and the only thing that works for me is SOLES as well. I use the medium volume ones with the runner on it.

Dogwood
05-20-2013, 20:27
I use the medium volume ones with the runner on it.- The Young One

Best after market mass produced Ortho that generally works FOR ME too! I'll go to different volumes for different shoe fits. Pricey but they last(CERTAINLY last longer than Super Feet)
Dean Karnazes is the runner on them. Ed Viesturs(climber, adventurer) and Chris Davenport(skier)are on their other models.

Tinker
05-20-2013, 23:30
I've been using PowerStep orthotic insoles for the past 1-1/2 years with good results. Before that I alternated between some insoles which came with my Chaco hiking boots and Superfeet (green and orange). I prefer the PowerStep and Chaco insoles to the Superfeet (the Superfeet don't have as much arch support). My podiatrist carries the PowerSteps.