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If you suffer from foot pain, custom orthotics may be the right solution for you. Orthotics are devices that are custom-made to fit your feet. There are two main types of orthotics: rigid and soft. Rigid orthotics are made of hard materials, such as plastic or metal, while soft orthotics are made of softer materials, such as foam or cloth. So, which type of orthotics is right for you? Let’s take a closer look at the differences between rigid and soft orthotics.
Before we delve deeper into the differences between rigid and soft orthotics, let’s first discuss what custom orthotics are.
When you go to the doctor because your feet hurt, custom foot orthotics are often part of what they tell you to have. A custom orthotic is a special insert made to fit your shoe. Custom orthotics are made by taking a 3D impression of your feet and can be made from different materials such as plastic with various densities, cork, or even carbon fiber. They are made just for you to help improve, support, or correct your foot posture or treat any foot pathology you may have.
Numerous foot problems are treated using orthotics. The device’s functionality and design will help you get the greatest results from your therapy, depending on the condition you have. However, orthotics are not only used for therapy. They can also be used for athletic and lifestyle purposes. They can be inserted in basketball, tennis, golf, and other sports shoes. People can also order lifestyle custom orthotics for their office shoes and even flip-flops.
These devices can improve the structure of the foot by putting the bones and joints in the best positions without having to reconstruct or operate on the foot.
Now that we know what custom orthotics are, let’s move on to the types of custom orthotics. As we mentioned earlier, there are two main types of custom orthotics: rigid and soft. In general, rigid orthotics need a prescription, while soft orthotics can be bought without a prescription. Rigid or semi-rigid orthotics are firm because they were made to fit the shape of your foot. Soft and flexible inserts, on the other hand, can fit most people’s feet.
Rigid orthotics are used to stop or limit how the foot moves in ways that aren’t normal. Its solid construction stops the foot from moving to stay in the right place. A rigid orthotic is usually designed for low-heeled, closed-toe footwear, such as sneakers, men’s dress shoes, flats, or walking shoes. They usually take more time to adjust to but, over time, become more comfortable to wear.
Rigid orthotics are made from harder materials, such as plastic or metal. These materials make the device more durable and long-lasting. However, they can also make them less comfortable to wear at first because they take some time to break in.
Soft orthotics work differently depending on the type of material they are made from. They are more flexible because they bend with your feet. Unlike rigid custom orthotics, soft custom orthotics are made from softer materials, such as foam or cloth. They are thus ideal for pressure reduction, support, and cushioning. Additionally, they effectively absorb stress, improve balance, and/or relieve pressure on painful or unpleasant parts of the foot.
The materials used for soft orthotics make the device more comfortable to wear because they conform to your feet. As such, they are good for people who engage in high-impact sports where the feet move fast. However, they are not as durable as rigid custom orthotics and must be replaced more often.
Now that we’ve gone over the differences between rigid and soft orthotics, you may wonder which type is right for you. The answer depends on your needs and preferences. If you are looking for a durable device that will last longer, then rigid custom orthotics may be the right choice for you. However, soft orthotics may be the better choice if you are looking for a more comfortable device that can be trimmed to fit your shoes.
If you are unsure which type of custom orthotic is right for you, we recommend you consult a podiatrist or foot specialist. They will be able to assess your needs and make a recommendation based on their findings.
At NetStepUSA, we are committed to providing you with the best custom orthotics solution for your needs. Our custom orthotics collection comes in a variety, depending on your personal needs. Whether it’s sports insoles, therapeutic insoles, or lifestyle orthotics, we have them! We also offer a free insole fitting diagnosis that helps you identify the point of pain and shoes you wear so we can provide you with the right insoles you need.
What are you waiting for? Contact us and get started on your journey to better foot health today!
At NetStep™, we pride ourselves on being the leading orthotics provider in the world. We offer a wide range of products to meet the needs of all our customers, and our team of experts is always on hand to provide advice and support. Get the best possible care for your feet today.
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