"How do I stop arch pain when walking?"ย If you've ever asked yourself this question, there's a likelihood that the wrong footwear is the primary culprit. For example, trainers with inadequate arch support can make you uncomfortable, becoming the primary source of the problem you tried so hard to avoid.ย
But hold onโwhat's arch support? Why is it so important in dealing with arch pains? Which trainers have arch support? How do I know that a shoe has arch support? This article provides answers to these questionsโand more.
The ROAST:
- Arch support is one of the most essential factors to consider when purchasing trainers; besides providing support for your feet, arch support is also important for better balance and pressure distribution
- Not every individual needs arch support, but if you have flat feet, high arches, feel extra pressure on your feet, and have an active lifestyle, arch supports should be one of your prioritiesย
- The best way to know if a shoe has good arch support is to walk around in them for a while and notice how they feelย
What is Arch Support?
An arch support is an orthotic device inserted in shoes to, as the name implies, support your foot's arches. This helps to alleviate or eliminate foot pain or discomfort, especially when running or undertaking activities involving complex leg motions.
Arch supports work by improving your foot alignment and helping you redistribute weight in a way that doesn't place undue stress on your arches. They also serve as shock absorbers, providing your feet with the cushion they need to keep you comfortable.
There are different kinds of arch supports made from various materials. They include gel, wool, and memory foam.
What are the Types of Arches?
These are the different types of arches:
Normal arch, also referred to as medium arch, is the most common type of foot arch. It has a moderate curve on its sole that helps to distribute weight evenly and enhance stability.
Flat arches are also called low or fallen arches. This type of foot arch has little or no curves along the sole and may cause overpronation. Overpronation happens when the foot excessively rolls inwards and people with this condition often complain about ankle, knee, and hip pain.
With high arches (also called cavus foot), your footโs arch is raised higher than it should be. The opposite of flat feet, high arches can be painful and increase your risk of instability and injuries.
Understanding your foot arch is important for choosing appropriate footwear and arch supports. To know your arch type, step a wet foot on a piece of paper and take a good look at the imprint. High arches will have narrow or no imprints, full imprints suggest a low arch and normal arches will appear as half imprints.
Best Shoes with Arch Support
Now that you know what arch support is, the next thing to learn is which trainers have arch support. While many brands claim that they offer the best shoes with arch support, the Cassava Classic Tennis Trainers and Arbi Sleek Sneakers from Black Tulip remain unrivaled.
Let's take a look at them:
- Black Tulip Cassava Classic Tennis Trainers
Cassava Classic Tennis Trainers have the perfect arch support for individuals with neutral and higher arches. Made from high-quality materials with special emphasis on breathability and arch support, this shoe also comes with a flat surface to offer you the best of comfort.ย
Plus, with different size options to choose from, you are sure to find a Cassava Classic Tennis Trainer that fits you just right.
- Black Tulip Arbi Sleek Sneakers
If you have a low arch or flat feet, the Arbi Sleek Sneakers will do right by you. This category of sneakers provides a more elevated surface for optimal comfort and to make up for the natural arch you're missing.ย The arch support in Arbi Sleek Sneakers also enhances your alignment and offers you the perfect cushion for shock absorption.
Note that when it comes to arch support, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to getting your best fit. While the above general guidelines will point you in the right direction, it's best to speak with the professionals at Black Tulip to help you get the trainer that suits your unique features perfectly.
Do Podiatrists Recommend Arch Support?
Yes, podiatrists recommend that individuals who require arch support use them as often as possible. The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) recognizes arch supports as one of the common types of shoe inserts that provide support, comfort and cushion for your foot's natural arch. According to the organization, they also help to relieve a variety of foot ailments such as foot pain.
Medical experts also recommend both nonprescription arch supports and custom-designed arch supports that align with your feet's contour to reduce symptoms associated with flatfeet.
How Do I Know If I Need Arch Support?
Not everyone needs arch supports, but if you experience these signs, it may be necessary to get them:
Do your feet feel tired at the end of every workday? If yes, then it may be an indicator that your arches need extra support. From standing for extended hours to walking on uneven surfaces, etc., many work activities can cause foot fatigue through muscle overuse, reduced blood circulation, and increased pressure on your arches. Fortunately, arch support helps to relieve the discomfort that is typical of these situations.
- Arch, Heel, Hip, Knee, or Back Pain
If you feel some sort of discomfort or stabbing pain in your heel or arch, you may have plantar fasciitis, which is often associated with inadequate arch support. This pain can extend beyond your feet and affect your hips, knees, and back too.ย
Even if you don't feel pain, inflamed feet may suggest insufficient arch support. Swollen feet may be your body's way of telling you that you're placing too much strain on your arch.
While worn-out shoes are typically due to natural wear and tear, they may also telltale signs of inadequate arch support in some cases. That's especially when it happens rapidly and the wear is uneven.
If you're a busy bee, always on your feet, and hardly have the time to catch your breath, you need arch support.
Are Trainers Fit and Suitable for Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar Fasciitis refers to the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick ligament that runs from the heel to the front of the foot. Plantar fascia helps to absorb shock and provide support for your arches. So, when it gets inflamed, it causes a lot of problems for your feet. For example, many people with plantar fasciitis complain of foot pain and stiffness.
There are many treatment options for plantar fasciitis and wearing supportive inserts like arch supports is one of them. As long as your trainer has quality arch supports that help to evenly distribute the pressure on your feet and provide extra cushioning, it's fit and suitable for plantar fasciitis.
Invest in Quality Arch Support Todayย
If you have a busy or active lifestyle, trainers are likely your shoe of choice. Trainers offer the best of practicality, comfort, and versatility, helping you to move from one activity to another with ease. Whether you want to exercise, go for a school run, walk long distances, board the train, or even grab a bite with your friends, trainers are your everyday best friends.ย
But even your trainers need some form of support to keep you as comfortable as possible for longer. That's where arch support comes in. With proper arch support, your feet will align properly with your body. This reduces your risk of arch pain, increases your stability, and enhances your posture.
