Many people now wear corrective insoles or orthoses within their shoes. These may be simple pads or insoles that protect a tender joint or a sophisticated orthosis that corrects the way the foot functions.

In order for this treatment to succeed, the correct types of shoes must be worn. It is important to discuss shoes if you are thinking about using orthoses, as not every type of shoe is suitable. Podiatrists recommend that shoes should have:

• Depth at the toe and the heel
• Adjustable fastening
• No more than 4cm (11/2”) heel height
• Removable insole to allow easy accommodation of the orthoses

Slip-on shoes or fashion shoes are generally less suitable to use with orthoses. As these shoes tend to have a shallow fitting, there may be problems fitting the device and the foot into the shoe at the same time. For advice on orthoses please contact your local Chiropodist/ Podiatrist.