Flat Feet

[goobernoodles]

Does anyone know of any good insoles for people with flat feet? I've been getting into hiking and after an 8 or 9 mile hike a few weeks ago, I started getting pain when getting up after sitting for a while. I was convinced there was something wrong with my shoe. Dr. Google told me it was plantar fasciitis. Who the hell knows... It went away after a week or so.

Anyway, I'll probably go to a podiatrist one of these days, but I wondered if anyone with flat feet had any success with over the counter insoles?

 

[Capt Caveman]

I have had good success with these - http://www.superfeet.com/products/Blue.aspx

 

[OptimumSlinky]

I'm going to run against the grain here, but I have pretty damn flat feet as well, and the best thing I ever did was start wearing Vibram Five Fingers on the weekends. Hiking around the hills near my town and even just around cities wearing those has strengthened and toughened my feet like nothing else.

 

[SociallyChallenged]

I'm going to run against the grain here, but I have pretty damn flat feet as well, and the best thing I ever did was start wearing Vibram Five Fingers on the weekends. Hiking around the hills near my town and even just around cities wearing those has strengthened and toughened my feet like nothing else.

That really depends on why his feet are flat in the first place. If they're flat due to posterior tibilias weakness, then sure that's great. If it's flat due to an ankle deformity (like subtalar varus), then this will actually be a really bad idea and could exacerbate any issues he's having.

 

[Redfraggle]

Any possibility to see a podiatrist?

+1 for Superfeet. Make sure you have proper fitting footwear though.

 

[goobernoodles]

Any possibility to see a podiatrist?

+1 for Superfeet. Make sure you have proper fitting footwear though.

Considering many of my hobbies have been outdoors (hiking/biking/backpacking), I probably should just go see a podiatrist. It'd just be a hassle. haha

I'll give Superfeet insoles a shot - from the looks of it, Green looks like the type I should be getting.

 

[Redfraggle]

Definitely go see a podiatrist if you are having foot issues and are that active. But also find a good place that will fit you properly for shoes/boots. There is a slightly more expensive line of Superfeet that they custom mold to your feet (or there used to be anyway), you could also try that.

There are exercises and gimmicks all over the internet for PF aimed at people like you. Don't get sucked in and make the problem worse. I hate doctors mostly, but there are some things you just don't mess around with.

 

[JayBlay77]

+1 on the podiatrist. My sis has flat feet. Hurt while/after running track. Saw the podiatrist and got some of those custom inserts. Her feet don't hurt and she now has taken up cross country without a problem.