Among the sports items, and particularly among the technical material for running, you always find a large range of shoes, for different types of athletes, tracks, needs; various items of clothing for different seasons; accessories of all kinds and use to make your running session more comfortable. Among these, you find an article increasingly used by many runners and also regular walkers: the sports insole.
The insole, in this case, means a non-personalized accessory to be placed in your shoe; naturally available in different sizes. Insoles can be used in everyday life, as a support, providing greater comfort for the foot. But it is also and especially indicated for the runner. Let’s see why.
We know that the foot plays a key role in running. It is the only point of contact with the ground and is subject to considerable stress. But it is not the only part stressed.
To simplify, let’s say that each time you set your foot down, when walking, stresses are created: shoes help cushion a good portion of the foot’s contact with the ground, but inevitably the energy that is created during support creates micro-stresses many parts of our body (especially in the lower limbs). These stresses obviously multiply in intensity when we run.
Cross-country runners repeat this movement for many kilometres, numerous sessions each week. As a result, their joints, muscles and tendons are subject to considerable stress, which can easily lead to an accident.
The insole under discussion was created with the aim of cushioning these stresses, helping the athlete to prevent annoying injuries and problems to the musculoskeletal system. Among the beneficial effects from the regular use of these supports, reports indicate there is a reduction in fatigue and better recovery, but especially a reduction in the onset of common pathologies in runners such as tendinitis, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, etc. There are many types and materials with different compositions available on the market. Literature indicates that some insoles can absorb up to 95% (or more) of the vibrations: excellent results.
However, it is best to see a specialist for various annoyances or pain (especially if recurrent), and accidents.
Lorenzo Andreini
FIDAL Physical Therapist and Instructor
