Anyone have any experiences with orthotics?

fixed my back

I work at a running specialty shop, we have people come in quite often who are in your situation. Most of the time they get the orthotics custom made and all that hogwash but something is always wrong and they still have pain or just arent running right. We usually fit them in orthotics we carry at the shop made by superfeet and they are fine after that. I would suggest getting one of those before going ahead and spending all the money on some custom made expensive orthotic.

I'm getting fitted for orthotics next week. Is it really not worth it? Does anyone else have experience with the SuperFeet inserts?

I have used the superfeet. I found them to be a good orthotic. I have a long history with PF, and felt they did a good job helping with this problem. I\'d recommend them to anyone who couldn\'t afford the plaster molded inserts you can get.

I have the molds, so far I have had no shinsplints, pf, or any of those unfortunate lower leg problems. However, I do have runner's knee pretty bad, and this could possibly be attributed to the orthodics. My physical therapist said my runner's knee could have been caused or perpetuated by too much support; I bet the podiatrist wanted to collect the money for the expensive orthodics from my insurance company, what a bastard if this is the case.

I guess I don't know if they are worth it or not.

Orthotics VASTLY improved a chronic soleus tendon injury that I was dealing with, I still can't run more than 5 minutes in any situation without them.

My story. I started running in 1971 as a 12 year old. I was always injured- "runner's knee", Sciatic Nerve, back problems, shin problems- all the classic overuse injures. I ran when I could, didn't when I absolutely couldn't. FInally, in about 1980 I quit out of frustration. Started running again in 82, got in shape and same problems. In 84 I tore my plantar fascia. Was about to give up when a friend suggested a podiatrist and orthotics.

My orthotics came in the day of the Pole Vault in the 84 Olympics (I just seem to remember that). I have worn orthotics with shoes that would be considered stable (not motion control). I have not had an overuse injury since then. I swear this is the truth. I have had running related injuries, but not overuse injuries. I replace them every year and I wear them whenever I have shoes on my feet. I don't wear sandals because I just don't like the "look" of sandals- my own preference.

I swear by my orthotics and have friends and I coach kids in the same situation.

I could positively say that I would not be running today if I had never gotten orthotics.

It's up to you. I have also heard of people they do not help. Th ones I've known personally simply went without them too often and thier injuries occured because of everyday walking around in shoes that were not designed for healthy humans.