Are you on a quest to find the best shoe insoles (inserts | orthotics) for back pain?
Then you’re in the right place. Because I have done the hard work for you and have reviewed dozens of models.
In addition, I will introduce the following related topics.
- Product Details
- Benefits of Using Insoles
- Shoe Insoles for Back Pain Buyer’s Guide
- Types of Insoles
- Tips: Trimming Insoles For The Perfect Fit
- …
I will also answer some common questions.
- What is a Foam Roller?
- Why Foam Rollers Work?
- How To Foam Roll Your Back?
- …
Without further ado, let’s begin!
One of the most common causes of back pain is due from poor body posture. This is especially true for those that stand all day or have to work from a computer. However, this can also be related from relaxation activities such as playing video games or watching television. Many people never pay attention to their own body posture and do not see the need for correcting it. Many times, poor body posture rises from foot issues. Typically, when the feet over-pronate or roll inwards, it will tend to place the entire body off balance.
When the pronation becomes extreme, it has the ability to cause the legs to rotate inward and the pelvis will tilt forward. Over time this will result in an increased spinal curvature and places pressure on the lower back muscles. This will, of course, lead to serious pain and discomfort in this essential part of the body. Most people who suffer from lower back pain after long periods of walking or standing should consider the fact that it is their feet that are causing the issue.
One of the simplest and most affordable ways to alleviate harsh back pain is to place specially designed inserts or orthotics into the shoes. Orthotics is the theory in which bad foot alignment will lead to poor body alignment. This bad alignment will lead to back problems for the individual. Foot minders orthotics are designed to reduce this form of excess pronation, which will prevent the internal rotation of the legs and forward tilting of the pelvis. This will help to improve the posture which will reduce the amount of pressure in the lower back. The end result is an individual who is no longer as tired or in pain.
Benefits of Using Insoles
There are several medical conditions that can develop over time:
- Incorrect foot positioning
- Knee pain
- Heel spurs
- Lower back pain
- Heel pain
- Bunions
- Arthritis
A proper pair of insoles has the ability to fill in the gaps where the feet tend to be the most vulnerable or just need a little-added support for a pain-free and more productive life. Insoles have the ability to help anyone who is on their feet all day long.
Support
As individuals age, the medial longitudinal arch of the foot will begin to collapse which will cause the foot to move forward, which will lead to many medical conditions. Insoles add a layer of support to the foot, which will alleviate all the pain and stress that can be found in the back, joints, and feet.
Reduce Back, Joint and Foot pain
Shoe insoles are designed to help distribute a person’s weight evenly while absorbing much of the shock associated with walking and running. In addition, it will take off the pressure from bunions and the ball of the foot. Having a good pair of insoles in the shoe will reduce much of the pain the body feels, improves the arch, closes the gap between toes in larger shoes, helps heel spurs, and simply makes life much more comfortable.
Comfort
One of the primary functions of insoles is to add another layer of cushioning to the soles of your feet. For individuals with medical conditions, spend the majority of the day on their feet, walk on hard surfaces, or have abnormally arched or flat feet, a good insole can make all the difference in the world as to the comfort level of the feet.
Maintain the Best Posture
For individuals who either under or over pronate will eventually suffer from pain and aches in their feet. Orthotic inserts are made to help individuals pronate at the proper angle.Having the right shoe insole is going to allow you to walk easier and enjoy typical daily activities much more. In fact, you just may not have known how much discomfort you were truly in!
Cheaper
You may think that the majority of shoes in the market already have more than enough padding. This is typically only true when the shoes are brand new out of the box. After owning a pair of shoes for six months to a year and walking in them daily, that cushion tends to get flattened out. Of course, this means that there is nothing much to absorb the impact of your steps. Placing a new insole into the shoe is not only going to add more comfort, it is much cheaper than buying a new pair of shoes.
Best Shoe Insoles for Back Pain Comparison Table
Best Shoe Insoles for Back Pain
- Superfeet Green Heritage Insoles
- Powerstep Pinnacle Shoe Insole Orthotics
- Powerstep Original Full Length Orthotic Shoe Insoles
- Sof Sole Airr Orthotic Full Length Performance Shoe Insoles
- Dr. Scholl’s Massaging Gel Work Insoles
- Spenco Polysorb Cross Trainer Athletic Cushioning Arch Support Shoe Insoles
- Orthotics for Flat Feet by Samurai Insoles
- New Balance Insoles IUSA3810 Supportive Cushioning Insole
- Spenco Total Support Max Shoe Insoles
- New Balance Insoles IPR3030 Pressure Relief Insole with Met
1. Superfeet Green Heritage Insoles
- FIT PROFILE: High profile/High volume insoles; Volume refers to the...
- STABILIZER CAP: Acts as the base of the orthotic shoe inserts that...
- DEEP HEEL CUP: These high arch support insoles feature the widest and...
- SUPERFEET SHAPE: The high profile shape of the arch support shoe...
- HIGH-DENSITY FOAM LAYER: Closed-cell soft foam insoles support and...
One popular brand of insoles that has different models which work for a variety of shoe and biomechanical requirements is Superfeet. Their Green Premium Insoles are one of the most popular models and are frequently recommended by podiatrists and occupational therapists for patients with back and feet problems.
Green Premium Insoles by Superfeet can make a real difference in how you feel by reducing the pain in your feet and making your shoes more comfortable. These insoles are designed to provide improved biomechanical shape, exceptional stability, and foot arch support. These improvements help support your legs and feet and help prevent ankle and heel pain, plantar fasciitis, and knee stress. They also help soothe tired and aching feet.
2. Powerstep Pinnacle Shoe Insole Orthotics
- Made in the USA: The majority of Powerstep orthotics are manufactured...
- Strong, Medical-Grade Foot Support: Encapsulated design and semi-rigid...
- Deep Heel Cradle: The Pinnacle’s deep heel cradle protects your heel...
- Double Layer Foam Cushioning: Many shoes do not have the proper amount...
- Anti-Microbial Top Fabric: Reduces heat and friction while performing...
Pinnacle Orthotics Insoles by Powerstep provide cushioned arch support using medical grade and double layered materials. Designed with a contoured stabilizing cup for the heel, these insoles are anatomically contoured and constructed from polypropylene material. Soft foam coats the bottom of the insert and helps make them more comfortable.
This insole is designed with a dynamic arch for maximum support and comfort for the feet. The insoles are suitable for any type of foot shape. The insoles are constructed with a synthetic and leather sole. The design includes anti-fatigue technology that helps keep you comfortable through long hours of standing. The insole is constructed with polyurethane made from recycled rubber. This rubber is placed on the top of the insole to help with long-term cushioning. It also helps enhance the insole’s breathability, antimicrobial function, and moisture management. Even with all of these features, this insole is still lightweight.
3. Powerstep Original Full Length Orthotic Shoe Insoles
- Full length total support: powerstep’s original orthotic shoe insole...
- Moderate cushioning: original full-length shoe insoles have dual-layer...
- Designed for comfort: The polyester top fabric keeps your feet...
- For every shoe: maintain stability, support and alleviate foot pain...
- Podiatrist designed: Powerstep original orthotic shoe insoles are...
One of the leading manufacturers of orthotic insoles is Powerstep. These are one of the first orthotic insoles and are still one of the best. Powerstep has earned a reputation for excellence providing outstanding orthotic insoles that provide stability and foot support.
These inserts also provide a balanced comfort and a gradual improvement in stability and endurance. This insole is designed to gradually conform to your foot making them easy to use and extremely comfortable. The Powerstep is a very comfortable and durable insole. You can use it for walking or running and it will last. This insole helps prevent heel, metatarsal or arch pain and can also help improve your posture and alleviate lower back pain.
4. Sof Sole Airr Orthotic Full Length Performance Shoe Insoles
- Athletic orthotic insoles for low arches and flat feet; ideal for...
- Reinforced nylon arch support plate enhances motion control and...
- SKYDEX air bubbles in the heel and arch of the insert absorb shock...
- COOLMAX fabric top cover wicks away moisture to keep feet cool and...
- Available in two sizes to fit women's athletic shoes: Women's 5-7.5,...
This insole is the best choice for athletes with low arches. It helps improve movement control and stability. This insole provides exceptional cushioning to enhance your ability to perform any activity. It is also designed to serve as a shock absorber when you are cycling, running, or jumping and can help prevent injuries. This insole can also help relieve pain from flat feet. It is designed with strong arch support which can help reduce foot pain. They may be used with any shoe and can adapt to a variety of foot shapes or sizes.
This durable insole is constructed from nylon. You can wear it every day and it will still be strong and offer good support. The insole is designed with extra support which is provided by a nylon plate that cushions the heel and arch. The insole also features skydex bubbles and forefoot gel which serve as shock absorbers to prevent injuries. Cool max material also helps the insole breathe and prevents moisture buildup. This keeps your feet dry and cool.
5. Dr. Scholl’s Massaging Gel Work Insoles
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One of the best-known brands of orthotics is Dr. Scholl’s. These insoles are known for their high-quality construction and innovative designs. They can help reduce injuries and improve comfort. One of the most popular models of Dr. Scholl’s orthotic insoles is the Massaging Gel Work Insoles. These insoles are a good choice if you spend hours on your feet.
These insoles feature blue gel cushions to provide extra comfort. They also conform to your feet providing maximum arch support. You can trim these insoles to fit into any shoe and they are perfect if your feet are achy or tired. These insoles are also antimicrobial and help keep your feet dry and odor-free.
Dr. Scholl’s has a variety of orthotics available. These may be used with regular shoes or in work boots and provide long-lasting comfort for aching or tired feet. Most models can be trimmed to fit any size or shape of a shoe and are extremely durable. The Dr. Scholl brand has been around for years and each of their products is designed with high-quality and durable materials. They are affordable and designed to keep you comfortable whether you’re walking a couple of miles, hiking up a mountain or standing all day at work.
6. Spenco Polysorb Cross Trainer Athletic Cushioning Arch Support Shoe Insoles
- Spenco insoles with 4-way stretch fabric and Silpure antimicrobial...
- EVA forefoot cushion provides cushioning and energy return for high...
- Spencore material a 5/32 inch layer of this material absorbs shock and...
- Lightweight polysorb polyurethane foam provides arch and heel support
- Spencore heel plug provides extra cushioning and shock absorption in...
Spenco is one of the leading market brands in the insole sales industry. While the Spenco’s insoles for their PolySorb Cross Trainer are developed using an anti-microbial material that prevents blisters and controls bad odor, the Eva forefoot cushion offers energy return with shock absorption. The Eva forefoot cushion is highly effective for people in competitive sports because it removes stress from the wearer’s foot and improves usage for high impact training. Of course, the insoles can also be worn for other activities that place stress on feet and joints making them the best all-round option.
Spenco insoles are available in a plethora of colors and sizes suited to both males and females. Furthermore, the prices of all Spenco insoles are reasonable and affordable for people working on a budget.
7. Orthotics for Flat Feet by Samurai Insoles
- PLANTAR FASCIITIS PAIN? FLAT FEET? SKIP THE PRICEY $500 INSOLES: As a...
- PODIATRIST DESIGNED, PROVEN BY 2,000+ REVIEWS – FIX FOOT PAIN AT THE...
- “THEY FIT!” NO GUESSWORK, NO CUTTING, NO STUFFING: Let’s be...
- THE SECRET? LOOK INSIDE OUR insoles. While most ARCH SUPPORT SHOE...
- INSTANT PAIN RELIEF, GUARANTEED? YES! AND CUSTOMERS AGREE, “They...
The Samurai insoles are ideal for runners presenting with foot conditions such as flat feet, heel pain, and plantar fasciitis and over pronation. This hard orthotic product is beneficial because it was designed by a professional podiatrist and instead of merely fitting a size, they present with individual sizes to suit the particular foot. No trimming is required to match the foot and while this insole may seem rigid, it actually features a molded core with the accurate amount of arch support.
Samurai insoles provide additional longitudinal cushioning and support with the forefoot extensions preventing any movement of the insole during sporting activities. Designed to reduce problematic foot conditions, the insole also offers greater stability with maximum levels of support. The contoured shaping of the feet occurs both lengthways and across the arch; thereby, decreasing any feelings of pain or fatigue. A proton heel cushion with arch support increases shock absorption making it easier for the wearer to engage in high effort activities.
8. New Balance Insoles IUSA3810 Supportive Cushioning Insole
- Heel and forefoot are protected from shock with specially placed...
- Arch shape features special air flow channels which move warm air out...
- Extra deep heel cup provides additional support and comfort.
- Anti-blister top cover
The New Balance brand is well known for their range of athletic shoes, but they are also involved in designing and production of supportive insoles. The New Balance insole is the latest development and presents with a synthetic/urethane material to reduce friction and reduce the chance of blisters. The featured top ETC fabric within the Ultra Arch insole is highly beneficial because it helps the wearer’s feet to remain cool and dry throughout the day.
The New Balance insole is unique in that it separates the forefront cushion from the heel cushion using a molded arch support feature. This provides optimum support for the individual and holds the foot effective from a variety of different angles. Furthermore, the insole can be used by both males and females and is available in a soft blue color.
9. Spenco Total Support Max Shoe Insoles
- Spenco rigid arch-support insoles for stability
- For athletes looking for rigid support
- Improves motion control to reduce over-pronation
- Advanced support for the arch and heel
- Unconditionally guaranteed for one full year
Targeted toward the more active wearer, Spenco has designed an insole that provides support with stability and increased shock absorption features; thereby, preventing any damage to the feet. This Spenco Total Support Max insole is specifically designed using several mini pods with varying degrees of hardness and layered them throughout certain areas in the insole. The pods reduce the impact of the ground on the foot during stressful activities.
While the Spenco Total Support Max presents with a greater degree of rigidity when compared to other Spenco insoles, they are ideal for athletes and highly active individuals. The rigid arch support offers stability and prevents over-pronation. If you are an active individual or athlete, then this insole would be ideal for your needs.
10. New Balance Insoles IPR3030 Pressure Relief Insole with Met
- Custom fit with a Plastazote top cover that molds to your feet
- Shock-absorbing Poron cushioning at the heel and forefoot reduces...
- Anatomical arch support and heel cradle provide pressure relief
This brand is ideal for daily usage and all activities from walking and running to standing for long periods of time. It is unique due to the metatarsal pad designed to reduce blistering and friction. In addition, the top cover of the insole is created using Plazatazote material which is a lightweight type of rubber molding to your feet for a personalized fit.
The design of the insoles presents with cushioning pods offering optimum shock absorption at both forefoot and heel. In addition, the pressure relief arch supports are molded to reduce the level of moisture and ensure feet are dry. The deep heel cup provides natural padding for additional cushioning and they can be trimmed to fit any shoe.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Shoe Insoles (Inserts | Orthotics) for Back Pain
Selecting the best show insert for back pain can be a difficult choice among the plethora of options available. To make an enlightened decision it is important to have some basic criteria in place to narrow down the possible options.
We selected only those soles with the best possible fit for support of many hours of standing work. It is still important to remember that the needs of the individual can be very different from what is experienced by a reviewer. For this reason, it is important to begin your search with a good idea of what you need.
Different Types of Feet
Before you enter the market for good shoe insoles, it would be a good idea to have your feet inspected by a qualified podiatrist. This is especially true if you are experiencing serious pain associated with your feet, there could be an underlying cause that could be addressed with the proper shoe. Having your feet properly measured and diagnosed by a professional can increase the suitability of the show you need.
Various Types of Insoles
There is also a great variety of insoles that are available and each are designed for a very specific application. Following are some of the insole types you should consider when looking for the best set for you.
These are designed for those people whose jobs require them to stand or walk for long periods of time. These insoles are built thicker and have gel padding that allows more of the impact from walking to be absorbed by the insole. Comfort insoles are the best option for teachers, nurses and those in the serving industry who must be on their feet for many hours at a time. They also improve the circulation and reduce the harshness of fatigue.
Orthotic insoles are designed to provide a specific type of support to the arch or foot the metatarsal and heel region are also in need of this support sometimes. According to the need these can either be rigged or only partially rigid to provide a natural compensation to a foot and allows the user to walk normally with proper control of the motion.
Athletic/trainer insoles are designed to provide a specific type of support to an athlete’s foot. This is accomplished with a special design for the heel, arch and toe that allows for better performance in running, jumping and training. These are also built to the demands of active sports like soccer, basketball or running and have better resistance than those built for standing or walking.
Heel support insoles provide special support to the heel area and is especially useful for long days on the job. This is also a good application for shoes with insufficient heel support. Shoes that are slightly too large also need to be filled in properly and this is a good way of doing this. Women who are not accustomed to high heels can also apply the magic of a heel insole to adding a bit of comfort to their work.
These insoles are specially crafted to deal with the especially painful condition diabetes can place on the feet. These help those with sensitive foot conditions to find a measure of comfort when moving about with an extra layer of comfort. If you have been diagnosed with this condition, you should see a podiatrist who can make good recommendation on a shoe for you.
Corrective foot insoles are designed to promote proper foot alignment by adding support where needed. Those suffering from a collapsed arch, for example, will find the improved arch support allows them to move about in a more comfortable manner. Other corrective shoe insoles cradle the foot and keep it from rolling within the shoe and this allows for better walking and greater comfort.
After speaking to a qualified shoe tailor or a foot specialist, it is possible to have bespoke designs for insoles ordered to your precise needs. This can allow your shoe and foot to perform well together and this can suit your needs better. These insoles will need to be crafted on the specific shape of your foot and the considerations you will need, like running, standing or jumping. If you have found yourself still pain after trying out numerous products on the market this may be the best option for you.
Arch Support
The best option for you should support the arch without pushing it to high out shape. This will reduce the stress placed on your arch when stepping down. It should also have the proper height in relation to the shoe you are wearing. The height must be exact or this insert can cause more harm than good.
Fit
Since the ultimate goal of the shoe insert is that it will make your running or standing more comfortable, it is essential that the insert you choose fits your shoes and your feet as close to perfect as possible. We don’t want an insole that raises the foot too high and causes the foot to be pressed against the upper shoe. If the insert is insufficiently thick, it would not serve it purpose well.
Durability
As you can imagine a product that will fall apart after only a few short weeks of use. The best product for you will be the one that serves you well with top-quality materials and sturdy support. those inserts that have been designed for athletic purposes tend to be much stronger and more durable than those meant for walking about. Remember that your comfort is the most important and taking the time to make the best choice will ultimately bear the best results.
Tips: Trimming Insoles for the Perfect Fit
The insole is located within the shoe, directly under your foot. The majority of insoles can be removed and replaced with a better insole or orthotic. It is best to check to see if the insole is designed to be trimmed to fit your shoe before purchasing it.
One of the issues that many people have with insoles is the fact that they don’t always fit right. This is due to placing the insole directly in the shoe without altering it for your shoe size. Unless you purchase an insole that is specifically designed for your shoe size, you are going to have to customize it. Otherwise, you are going to end up with an imbalance in your shoe and have more issues than what you started with.
There are many insoles on the market that are a specific size, which means they will not need any trimming. However, a good number of the ones that are sold in retail shops across the nation and online will require a trimming to fit properly. Keep in mind, that the area in the forefront is the only area that is going to need to be trimmed down.
It is important that you follow the instructions that come with the insoles for the best fit possible. Many times the instructions will be on the package or can be found online. In some cases, you may even be able to find a video tutorial that will show the entire process, giving you the best fit possible. Once your insoles are trimmed properly, you are going to have a fit that is not imbalanced causing you to walk with discomfort.
Conclusion
When you are looking for insoles, remember that they are not only going to help solve foot pain but back pain as well. They are one of the most affordable ways to align the body and alleviate any type of pain the body is feeling. Considering the cost involved, it is a solution that anyone with pain should try.
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Editors’ Choice & Best Seller
- FIT PROFILE: High profile/High volume insoles; Volume refers to the...
- STABILIZER CAP: Acts as the base of the orthotic shoe inserts that...
- DEEP HEEL CUP: These high arch support insoles feature the widest and...
- SUPERFEET SHAPE: The high profile shape of the arch support shoe...
- HIGH-DENSITY FOAM LAYER: Closed-cell soft foam insoles support and...
I’m Lucas. I used to be a back pain sufferer, but I’ve recovered. I created BestforBackPain.com to help others find relief without going to physical therapy or expensive medication.
Last update on 2021-01-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API