When you run in Las Vegas, you don’t have to limit yourself to the city. While there are plenty of great, interesting areas you could see when you strap on your shoes and hit the town, not every run needs to be the same. Places like the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area or the River Mountains Loop trail offer completely different scenery. You don’t need to limit yourself to a single surface, route, or pace—just like you don’t need to limit yourself with orthotics. Many runners assume they need custom orthotics to run, when not everyone does.
It’s true, many runners need orthotics. Custom inserts are special tools designed to help adjust how your foot strikes the ground. They correct biomechanical issues that cause or increase your risk for overuse conditions. They can also alleviate strain on painful tissues. They are not a requirement for every runner, however.
Depending on your needs, changing your shoes or adjusting your stride may actually accommodate your feet just as well as an orthotic insert. Many fancy running shoes have stability measures, motion control, and extra padding built directly into the footwear, too. For some people, this is all their feet really need: shoes that fit well and match their gait.
So who does need custom running orthotics in their sneakers?
- Chronic over-pronators – Runners whose arches rotate in too far often strain their ankles and knees. Inserts can control this motion so their feet don’t roll too much.
- Painful, excessively flat feet – Flat feet don’t absorb shock well. Runners with extra flat feet may require additional cushioning and arch support.
- Runners with foot structural issues – Issues with your foot’s structure, like having bunions, can change your foot strike, potentially leading to overuse. Orthotics can help control this and absorb any extra shock.
Orthotics are just one option that could help keep your feet comfortable and injury-free when you run. Remember, if you do have a set that regulates abnormal motion, pair them with neutral shoes so you aren’t over-controlling your lower limbs. Our team at Absolute Foot Care Specialists in Las Vegas will be happy to help you decide if custom orthotics are right for your run. Make an appointment with us online, or by calling (702) 839-2010.
