Shoe insert is a general term for a device or accessory designed to fit inside of a shoe in order to improve shoe fit or to manage a specific problem. Shoe inserts can include a number of different products for use in shoes, including:
Orthotics
Insoles
Heel liners
Arch supports
Ball of foot cushions
Metatarsal pads
Some orthotics and insoles are designed specifically for an issue or concern, such as:
Knee pain
Hip pain
Lower back pain
Arthritis pain
Plantar fasciitis pain
Foot and leg fatigue
Flat arches support
Heel pain
Foot odor
Orthotics and insoles may also be beneficial for a particular activity such as walking or running in order to aid in performance or reduce the risk of injury.
While orthotics and inserts are full sized, lining the entire bottom of the inside of the shoe, there are also smaller inserts that are used in a specific area of the shoe, such as the heel or the ball of the foot. In addition, there are inserts for specific shoe types such as high heels, flats, fashion sneakers or sandals.
Certain types of shoe inserts are FSA eligible. Which exact products are eligible will vary by plan so it’s important to check with your specific plan provider in order to verify that the shoe insert you’re interested in qualifies.
How long shoe inserts last depends on a number of factors including the type of insert and how often the shoes are worn. In general, insoles, orthotics and other types of shoe inserts are designed to last at least six months. However, they should be replaced sooner if there are signs of wear or damage such as cracks or tears. Check with the manufacturer for guidance on how often a particular shoe insert should be replaced.
In order to insert heel pads in shoes, follow the instructions on the packaging of your heel pads carefully. Before you start, it’s usually recommended to wipe down the inside of the shoe, especially the area where the pads will be placed in order to eliminate any dirt and debris that can prevent the liner from adhering properly. Most pads have a plastic backing that will need to be removed. Once the backing is gone, the liner should be placed so that it’s curving down. Press the sticky side firmly against the inside of the heel so that the liner attaches to the shoe and holds solidly in place.
There are a number of inserts that can provide all-day comfort for people who stand all day.
Dr. Scholl’s® Comfort & Energy Work Insoles are ideal for people who work long hours on their feet. These insoles help reduce leg and foot fatigue, even when working on hard and uneven surfaces.
For an eco-friendly option, consider Dr. Scholl’s® Eco-Foam™ All-Day Insoles. They provide all-day support for tired, achy feet with the help of recycled materials and plant-based oils.
The right shoe inserts used correctly work well for many people. Shoe inserts can provide a number of benefits, including:
• Improved shoe fit
• Pain reduction
• Fatigue reduction
• Blister prevention
• Increased athletic performance
• Odor and sweat control
Medicare Part B may cover a portion of the cost of orthotic inserts in some cases if they are determined to be medically necessary by a healthcare provider. Check with your provider and Medicare Part B benefits for details.
How to find the right shoe insert
A doctor can prescribe custom orthotics and other types of shoe inserts to accommodate your specific needs and anatomy. However, there are easier ways of finding a shoe insert that meets your needs and doesn’t require a visit to the doctor’s office. Dr. Scholl's Insole Advisor can offer recommendations based on a number of different factors. Just answer a few simple questions to find the right shoe insert for your individual needs.
You can also get Dr. Scholl’s CUSTOM FiT ® Orthotics over-the counter with the help of an interactive kiosk. This system uses FootMapping® technology that involves over 2,000 sensor pressures for a tailor-made shoe insert. You can also choose to take an online assessment if you’d rather skip the kiosk.
If your shoe inserts are slipping, they may be too small for your shoe, or they may be the wrong type of insert for your shoes. Insoles and orthotics should fit your shoe without slipping or sliding around. You may need different shoe inserts for different shoes since some inserts are only suitable for specific types of shoes.
If your shoe inserts are only intended to be used in part of the shoe (heel liners, for example), the adhesive may be failing. Replace your current inserts with new ones and be sure to follow the instructions carefully when placing the new inserts in your shoe. Wipe down the inside of the shoe thoroughly in order to remove any debris that could prevent your insert from fully adhering. Place the sticky side firmly against the appropriate area of the shoe and ensure that the insert holds securely in place.
