Don't know I agree but here is an foot expert from western med

"podo


2006-05-08 17:35:21 ( time)

In topic Fallen Arches podo writes:
marlboro,

i doubt that your arches are actually in the progress of falling, 80% of people are have flat feet / pronation. It only becomes a problem when it becomes symptomatic e.g. arch pain, shin splints, anterior knee pain, plantar facitis etc etc.

Pronation is a triplanar motion which occurs at the subtalar and mid tarsal joints of your ankle / foot complex. This pronation is a natural shock absorbing mechanism. However is there is excessive pronation your feet end up in a non efficient alignment. this results in excessive strain on ligaments and muscles....therfore pain.
also, one component of this tri planar motion is internal rotaion of the hind foot and subsequently you shins. this internal rotation can cause mal tracking of your knee cap which causes a sharp knee pain ("anterior knee pain"!)

anyway.... i think you will be getting bored of this!!!

The majority of people can find benefit from "anti pronation" trainers such as some of the trainers in the asics range. these are a mild form of antipronation correction which maintain your foot alignment within normal limits.

The next stage up is FFOs (functional insoles) which would offer a more rigid / corrective force. These can be cutom made or off the shelf. For the vast majority of people of the shelf is more than adiquit. (not necessarily of the shelf from a chemist but from a orthotic supplier) maybe £30 max.

I would not recommend seeing a podiatrist at the moment especially for that price. I am an orthotist and we are the ones who are specifly trained in the use of biomechanical devices to improve body alignment / function. (hence orthotic insole not podiatrist insole!!!)

I could prob find a web site which you could purchace a pair of suitable orthotics from.

ALSO... unfortunatly all corrective insoles require shoes. Bare foot training discomfort could be improved if you reduce the stressess when you are wearing footwear so that your feet are "fresh" when you start.

I'm sorry for such a long answer!!!"