Thursday, 31 July 2025
Walk into any pharmacy, sports store or shoe shop in Singapore and you’ll find a wall of insoles—gel pads, foam cushions, arch supports, heel cups, and everything in between. They promise relief from foot pain, better posture, and all-day comfort.
But here’s the thing: most of them don’t actually solve the problem.
At East Coast Podiatry, we regularly see patients who’ve tried several types of over-the-counter insoles in hopes of easing heel pain, arch collapse, or even back discomfort—only to be disappointed. The truth is, while generic insoles may seem convenient, they rarely address the underlying cause of discomfort.
Let’s explain why.
One Size Doesn’t Fit All
The biggest issue? Generic insoles are made for mass production, not your specific foot shape or walking pattern. Whether you’re dealing with flat feet, plantar fasciitis, bunions, or just general fatigue, the source of your discomfort is often biomechanical.
Without a proper assessment, using a random pair of insoles may do very little—or worse, make things more uncomfortable.
Here in Singapore, where hard flooring is the norm and daily walking is part of life, minor misalignments can easily be magnified over time. That’s where a custom approach matters.
Misleading Claims and Temporary Relief
Many insoles claim to support the arch or absorb shock, and while they might feel more comfortable for a short while, they rarely offer long-term relief. Why? Because they’re not calibrated to your gait or weight distribution.
Some insoles even push too much under the arch, creating unnecessary pressure that can lead to new issues like knee pain or ankle instability. It’s a quick fix—but not a proper solution.
If you’re suffering from persistent foot or lower limb discomfort, it’s not about cushioning—it’s about correction.
What Makes Custom Insoles Different?
At East Coast Podiatry, we craft prescription orthotics—also known as custom insoles—based on detailed clinical assessment and 3D foot scanning. These insoles are designed specifically for your feet and the way you move.
Here’s what sets them apart:
- Designed by podiatrists after gait and pressure analysis
- Tailored to specific conditions like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, or flat feet
- Structured for long-term wear across different shoe types
- Made from medical-grade materials that provide targeted support
- Adjusted as needed as your body changes or improves
Custom orthotics aren’t just inserts. They’re part of a clinical care plan designed to address the cause—not just the symptom.
Not All Foot Pain Needs Insoles, Either
It’s also worth saying: not every foot problem needs an insole. Sometimes, targeted muscle work, footwear advice, or activity adjustments are more appropriate.
That’s why we don’t start with insoles—we start with a proper podiatry review. Because when you understand the root cause, you’re more likely to feel better, faster.
Book a Consultation at East Coast Podiatry
If you’ve been trying insole after insole without much success, it’s time to take a more informed step. Our podiatrists in Singapore work with children, athletes, professionals, and seniors to provide proper support—literally and clinically.
Don’t let generic insoles hold you back. Let’s find what your feet really need.