A Foot Revelation

[almhath]

I've been experimenting with shoe inserts with metatarsal pads. My boots are Merrells. I've been experimenting with several brands, but I consistently find the Merrells to fit my foot better than any other, and they seem to be a very good shoe/boot. But when I tried their inserts with the metatarsal pads, I felt the pads were situated more forward of where they should be for my foot.

Then I found some New Balance inserts (with arch support and metatarsal pad for plantar fasciitis) at my local New Balance store: http://www.amazon.com/Adults-New-Balanc ... -2-catcorr I really believe they got it right for me, AND... They're not gel. So they'll be able to go on the plane with me.

And I'm going to match them with some silk inner socks and Thorlos walking socks.

This is a foot revelation for me, and I haven't even left yet.

It's been a long search, and I thought this was exciting, so I'm sharing.

I-had-no-idea-my-feet-weren't-supposed-to-hurt-at-the-end-of-the-day Almha

 

[cmsmith]

Here are two recommendations my podiatrist, and a triathlete and hiker, gave me for my camino:

1) Try using support socks or stockings normally worn to prevent blood clots. Triathletes use them, and running stores carry various brands. I used them as my liner sock. They worked very well for me. My feet hurt less, and my legs were less tired. Plus, I had no swelling of my feet when I wore them on the plane over to Europe.
2) Orthotics that go the full length of the foot provide better support than those that fit only half the foot. Full foot orthotics provide more “push” to getting your foot into the up position ready for your next step. It sounds as if you are already doing this. I did have my podiatrist make custom sports inserts for me. They are expensive, and my insurance did not pay for them, but they have definitely been worth it for me.

CMSmith