8 replies to this topic

[hawkesi]

When i started running years ago i had many set backs with injury and orthotics were the solution. No probs now really.

But what i want to know is... has anyone had orthotics and after time been able to toss them and run orthotic-free.

They are heavy and uncomfortable, especially with speedier workouts.

Do the foot/ankle muscles strengthen over time or should i be doing certain excercises/workouts without them to strengthen up?

Thanks guys.

Hawkesi

[RunBare]

Although not strictly addressing your specific problem, this thread might answer a few questions for you. There are some related topics discussed there. Hope it helps.

[Bellthorpe]

Yes.

[hawkesi]

Thanks guys. Sounds like a bit of bare foot in the park might help.

I feel like i'm getting stronger now cause the orthotics almost feel like they're doing too much work and i'm not pronating enough. I'm wearing them with kayano's which are pretty supportive. Might be time to graduate to a more neutral shoe.

Thanks again.

[littleblackpug]

It depends on what issues you orthotics were addressing.

Going back 8 years, and for the first 5 years I ran, I had bad shin splints and compartment syndrome due to very unstable feet, I've have people tell me my orthotics were crap (physios etc), but at the time they helped me get over the injuries (I think) but I was also a significant heel striker. Over the last 18 months I have learned to mid foot/fore foot strike and improved my foot strength, ankle and lower limb strength and core stability, and am now incorporating a few 20 minute runs in Five Fingers every week, and I don't need them (orthodics) anymore, as my foot strike is totally different. I still wear them for long runs over 1.5 hours, but anything over 4 hours and I take them out as they are rigid and make my feet hurt after about 40kms.

So definitely if it's just a technique issue that is correctable, it is safe to save you will be able to eventually run without them, but don't make any sudden changes, my changes have happened over more than a year.

hawkesi, on Jun 13 2008, 01:32 PM, said:

Might be time to graduate to a more neutral shoe.

Definitely wear orthotics with neutral shoes, or something like the Loco Perfect, is perfect. That way your orthotics are not competing with the shoes.

[wombatoutofhell]

my pod told me I needed a supportive shoe with my orthotics-he suggested Nike Equalons. Also on his list are addidas addistar control. nike structure triax and brooks trance (which is what I have).

[walshy2]

since going to Orthotics 1 year ago I have been injury free (touch wood)

At 1st I found them odd, and heavier, but now feels completely normal

I am running faster times (generally) with them, which I am sure is more to do with natural progression, however as they say "if it aint broke don't fix it"

I'll be sticking with mine!!!

walshy

Edited by walshy2, 13 June 2008 - 08:53 PM.

[hawkesi]

I think i may be trying to run before i can walk, so to speak. I'm a bit impatient unfortunately.

I've just ordered a new pair of kayanos so hopefully my shin pain is just due to the current pair wearing down. They have about 600km's on them. I was hoping they'd last a bit longer than that.

I've noticed a few people are using those 5 fingers. I was looking at Nike Free's but it sounds like the 5 fingers are popular too.

Thanks y'all

hawkesi

[AlunDavies]

hawkesi, on Jun 13 2008, 01:32 PM, said:

Thanks guys. Sounds like a bit of bare foot in the park might help.

I feel like i'm getting stronger now cause the orthotics almost feel like they're doing too much work and i'm not pronating enough. I'm wearing them with kayano's which are pretty supportive. Might be time to graduate to a more neutral shoe.

Thanks again.

I know what you mean.

I've just gotten over an injury and the orthotics have made a huge difference but I have been thinking of having the occasional run without them (I only have them in my road shoes anyway). I have neutral shoes and despite the orthotics my pod has advised me to stick with them as a control shoe will overdoe it for me.

I won't be dropping them without asking hit advice first though as thus far, everything he's diagnosed and every treatment he's suggested has been spot on.

By the way, I think 600km is pretty good (aren't the kayano's a road shoe?), certainly if it's on the road. It may not appear that there's the same wear on the trail but they get knocked about a bit more so either way 600km a fair outcome I think.