Insole Orthotics Overview 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A runner with overpronation would most benefit from an insole that provides:
- Medial (inner) arch support (Correct answer)
- Extra heel height only
- No support at all
- A slippery surface
Correct answer: Medial (inner) arch support
Medial arch support helps counteract the excessive inward roll of overpronation.
Question 2: What is a 'heel cup' in an orthotic insole?
- A contoured area that cradles and stabilizes the heel (Correct answer)
- A drink holder in the shoe
- The toe section of the insole
- A removable lace
Correct answer: A contoured area that cradles and stabilizes the heel
A heel cup cradles the heel to improve stability and shock absorption.
Question 3: Diabetic patients often use orthotics primarily to:
- Prevent pressure ulcers and protect at-risk skin (Correct answer)
- Win running races
- Make shoes louder
- Add height for fashion
Correct answer: Prevent pressure ulcers and protect at-risk skin
Diabetic orthotics offload pressure to prevent ulcers in feet with reduced sensation and circulation.
Question 4: Which scanning method is commonly used to capture foot shape for custom orthotics?
- 3D laser or optical scanning (Correct answer)
- X-ray of the lungs
- Blood pressure cuff
- Hearing test
Correct answer: 3D laser or optical scanning
3D scanning or plaster casting captures the foot's contours for accurate custom orthotic fabrication.
Question 5: Why might an orthotic need a 'break-in' period?
- The foot and muscles need time to adapt to new alignment (Correct answer)
- The plastic must melt first
- The shoe must be returned
- It needs to be painted
Correct answer: The foot and muscles need time to adapt to new alignment
Gradual wear lets the feet and muscles adapt to corrected positioning without discomfort.
Question 6: A metatarsal pad is positioned to relieve pressure under the:
- Ball of the foot (Correct answer)
- Heel bone
- Big toenail
- Ankle joint
Correct answer: Ball of the foot
A metatarsal pad sits just behind the ball of the foot to redistribute forefoot pressure.
Question 7: Which is a sign an orthotic may be poorly fitted?
- New persistent pain or blisters (Correct answer)
- Improved comfort
- Better balance
- Reduced fatigue
Correct answer: New persistent pain or blisters
Ongoing pain, blisters, or new discomfort suggest the orthotic does not fit correctly.
Insole Orthotics Overview 3
A runner with overpronation would most benefit from an insole that provides: