You’ve no doubt heard the buzz about how miraculous orthotics, insoles and shoe inserts can be. Maybe you even have friends who have urged you to give them a try. Many of us who have discovered these gems wonder how we ever got along without them. In addition to helping with foot problems, they can also help with knee, back and hip issues. But what exactly is the difference between orthotics, insoles and inserts? The answer is far from obvious and the lines between the three are definitely blurred.
What are insoles?
Insole is a generic term for the part of the shoe that’s located at the bottom of the inside of the shoe. In other words, it’s the part of the shoe that lies under the sole of the foot. Insoles are also often called foot beds. In some cases, insoles are attached to the shoes. In other cases, insoles are removable.
