Question
Hello Dr Katz,
Unfortunately i was not blessed with good biomechanics. I had a right ankle injury when i was a teenager that was not treated properly and lost some mobility in my right ankle. Thus i was suggested to wear orthotics. I was given two different opinions as to which type two buy. A podiatrist told me that my orthoepic should be firm to give me max support, where as another professional told me that they should be soft as it absorbs better than the shock when running. I run about 65-85km a week, weigh 172lbs and measure 5 feet 11 inches. What is your take on this.

Answer
Hi Danny,

I have a diffrent opinion regarding orthotics for the foot.  If they are too hard, I believe there is too much control of the foot for an active individual.  The foot has many joints, tendons and muscles and is very dynamic.  Hard orthotic devices hinder the foot dynamics.  Soft orthotics give too little control and they often flatten with running.

I make a plastic type orthotic that is supportive yet flexible.  This gives support and correction but allows the dynamics of the foot to remain.

That's my opinion.

Sincerely,

Marc Katz, DPM
Tampa, FL
Advanced Podiatry
www.thetampapodiatrist.com
www.tampacryosurgery.com

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