Orthotics are often thought of for common conditions such as diabetic neuropathy, Plantar Fasciitis or Metatarsal pain (pain under the ball or toes of the foot). However, balanced Feet are the foundation of a properly functioning and healthy body.

How The Foot Works

There are three phases of normal gait:

• Heel strike is the landing gear where the leg has swung forward and the heel is making contact with the ground.

• Mid Stance where the foot is flat on the ground and slight pronation (internal rotation of the foot) helps the foot act like a shock absorber reducing the ground reaction forces, balances the body above and prepares the foot for toe off.

• Toe- Off is where the foot transitions from a shock absorber to a rigid lever enabling you to propel the body forward.

The illustration to your left highlights a very common aspect of these imbalances called pronation. Imagine the gravitational forces involved with walking multiplied by increased pronation. Excess rotation of the foot at foot Stance phase decreases the foots natural shock absorbing capacity; transmitting unusually high forces to the knee, hip pelvis, spine, shoulders and neck. The result is PAIN.

Here are some of the common symptoms associated with the most common foot imbalance called excessive pronation:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Heel and ankle swelling and pain
• Medial knee pain
• MCL sprains
• Hip pain
• Low back stiffness & discomfort
• Midback, neck and shoulder pain

A thorough foot exam is included in every new patient examination at this clinic. Dr. Chiungos believes that detecting and properly supporting imbalances of the feet dramatically improves patient outcomes, decrease treatment time and provides the patient with lasting protection when they leave the office.

At A Chiropractic Wellness Place PC Dr. Chiungos recommends Power Step Orthotics because of the tremendous cost savings versus a custom orthotic. Designed by a podiatrist, Power Step orthotic insoles are the best insole for healthy feet, helping to alleviate pain and prevent foot conditions that may affect the rest of your body.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get used to wearing orthotic insoles?

Most new users take one to two weeks before getting used to wearing orthotics. PowerStep insoles have a signature arch shape that helps correct body posture and alignment, dramatically improving the position of your joints and increasing muscle balance and stability.

We recommend wearing your orthotics for up to one hour on the first day of use. Then, increase that time by one more hour each day after. If you feel comfortable after five hours of wear by the fifth day, you can wear your new insoles full time! For more sensitive users, consider wearing your orthotics 30 minutes at a time instead.

Can PowerStep insoles be transferred from shoe to shoe?

Yes, the insoles can be easily removed and placed into a different pair of shoes. We recommend purchasing a pair of orthotics for each pair of shoes to help extend the product life.

How do I care for my PowerStep insoles?

Spot clean with a mild detergent. Do not immerse in water. Air dry and ensure the insoles are fully dry before inserting back into shoes.

Are PowerSteps recommended for over-pronation?

Yes! Over-pronation is when your foot rolls inward, putting strain on the soft tissues of the foot and leading to pain and fatigue. PowerStep insoles use a polypropylene support shell with heel cradle to hold your foot in proper alignment for improved biomechanics. For more severe over-pronation, use a posted heel like the Pinnacle Maxx Support for additional correction.

I have high arches. Will PowerStep help my feet?

Yes! High arched and supinated feet benefit from cushioning to help redistribute the pressure from the ball of the foot and heel. Try our Pinnacle High Arch Insoles to support the higher instep, or for more cushioning, use the ComfortLast gel insole to redistribute the pressure points.

What are Heat Moldable insoles and what are the benefits?

Custom Heat Moldable products can be heat-molded to offer a customized fit to your unique foot shape, giving full contact support for the foot. Heat Moldable insoles are ready to wear out of the box and don’t have to be heated or trimmed to wear. With continued use, the Heat Moldable insoles will form to your foot structure naturally.