Are you experiencing persistent foot pain, discomfort in your knees, hips, or even your back? The root of these issues might just be your feet. Often overlooked, our feet are the foundation of our entire body, and any misalignment or imbalance can have a ripple effect upwards. This is where orthotics come in…

In this blog, we will discuss what orthotics are, the different types of orthotics, and why you should choose a Neo G Neothotic insole.

Orthotics are medical devices inserted into shoes to help correct biomechanical issues in the feet, ankles, and even further up the kinetic chain.

An orthotic insole is the most common form of orthotic device, designed to fit inside your shoes, replacing or sitting on top of the existing insole. Unlike generic shoe inserts, orthotic insoles are specifically designed to address individual foot conditions and provide targeted support. They work by redistributing pressure, improving alignment, and controlling motion, thereby alleviating pain and preventing further injury. These insoles are crafted to support the arches of your feet, cushion impact, and control pronation (the inward rolling of your foot) or supination (the outward rolling of your foot). By doing so, they help to restore proper foot mechanics, reduce strain on muscles and ligaments, and absorb shock, ultimately leading to a more comfortable and stable stride.

At Neo G, we offer three types of orthotic insoles:

• Pro-Expert: Biomechanically engineered in conjunction with leading podiatrists, Neo G Pro-Expert Orthotic Insoles provide effective relief from pain and underlying conditions associated with misalignment and abnormal movement of the feet.

• Pro-Flex: Developed in conjunction with leading podiatrists for everyday comfort and support, the Neo G Pro-Flex insoles can ease foot discomfort and energize tired, aching feet.

• Pro-Silicone: Constructed from Premium Grade Silicone for orthotic cushioning and shock absorption, our Pro-Silicone Insole is designed by experts and combines firm support zones and soft cushion zones for support, comfort, and pain relief. Medically engineered and ergonomically designed to fit the anatomy of the wearer's foot, featuring an embedded Hexagonal Tech Mesh, which strengthens the insole for maximum protection and support.

For more guidance on our orthotics, sizing, and which orthotic is best for you, read our ‘Insoles Buying Guide’.

Several signs can indicate that you might benefit from orthotic insoles. If you experience any of the following, it might be time to consider orthotics:

• Persistent Foot Pain: Especially in your arches, heels, or balls of your feet.
• Pain in Other Areas: Discomfort in your ankles, shins, knees, hips, or lower back, which can often be traced back to improper foot mechanics.
• Flat Feet or High Arches: These structural issues can lead to imbalances and pain.
• Bunions or Hammertoes: These deformities are often exacerbated by poor foot support.
• Uneven Shoe Wear: If one part of your shoe sole wears down significantly faster than another, it can indicate an uneven gait.
• Frequent Ankle Sprains: Weak ankles or instability can be improved with proper support.
• Leg Fatigue: Tired or aching legs after standing or walking for extended periods.

Read our blog ‘Do I Need Insoles?’ for more information, or get in touch with us with any questions.

Orthotics are commonly prescribed or recommended for a variety of foot and lower limb conditions, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis: Inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes.
• Achilles Tendonitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, often caused by overpronation.
• Metatarsalgia: Pain in the ball of your foot.
• Bunions: Bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of your big toe.
• Hammertoes: A deformity that causes your toe to bend or curl downward.
• Shin Splints: Pain along the shin bone, often related to excessive impact or pronation.
• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee): Knee pain that can be linked to poor foot mechanics.
• Flat Feet: Where the arches of the feet collapse.
• High Arches: Where the arches are abnormally raised, leading to poor shock absorption.
• Diabetic Foot Care: To redistribute pressure and prevent ulcers.

When you first start wearing orthotics, it's normal to experience a brief adjustment period. You might feel a slight pressure or awareness of the new support in your arch. However, orthotics should never be painful or cause significant discomfort. If you experience sharp pain, rubbing, or worsening of your symptoms, remove them and consult with a healthcare professional.

The adjustment period typically lasts a few days to a couple of weeks. During this time, it's advisable to gradually increase the amount of time you wear them each day, allowing your feet and body to adapt to the new alignment.

The duration for which you need to wear orthotics varies greatly depending on your specific condition, the severity of your symptoms, and the type of orthotic.

• Temporary Use: For acute injuries or temporary imbalances, you might only need to wear orthotics until the condition resolves.
• Long-Term Use: For chronic conditions, structural deformities, or to prevent recurrence of pain, you might need to wear orthotics indefinitely. Many people with flat feet or high arches find that wearing orthotics daily significantly improves their comfort and mobility.

With Neothotics, you can enjoy continuous support and comfort, making them a seamless addition to your daily routine for as long as you need them.

This is a common point of confusion. While both orthotics and shoe inserts go into your shoes, their purpose and function are distinctly different:

• Shoe Inserts: These are typically soft and designed primarily for cushioning, comfort, or warmth. They offer minimal structural support or biomechanical correction. You can buy them off the shelf at most retail stores, and they don't address specific foot conditions. Examples include gel insoles for extra padding or fleece insoles for warmth.
• Orthotics: These are medical devices specifically designed to correct biomechanical imbalances, provide targeted support, and improve foot function. They are crafted with specific materials and contours to realign the foot and ankle, redistribute pressure, and alleviate pain associated with various conditions.

Most shoes don't have arch support, and so using one of our orthotic insoles will help provide that support. Your arch takes up the whole weight of your body, and without proper support, this can lead to strain not just in your feet but also in your ankles, knees, hips, and even your back over time.

Neo G orthotic insoles are designed to distribute pressure evenly across your foot, promoting proper alignment and reducing the risk of developing common issues like plantar fasciitis, bunions, and general foot fatigue. Even if you don't currently experience foot pain, proactive use of orthotics can help maintain the natural biomechanics of your foot, providing a stable foundation for your entire body and contributing to overall comfort and well-being in the long run.

Ignoring persistent foot pain or discomfort can lead to a cascade of issues throughout your body. By providing crucial support and alignment, orthotic insoles can be a game-changer, transforming your comfort and enhancing your overall well-being.

At Neo G, our Neothotics range offers an accessible yet effective solution, designed to address common foot concerns and provide the foundational support your body needs. Explore the Neo G Neothotics range today and take your first step towards comfort and improved mobility.