Nurses barely get to rest during their work shifts. They are always on their feet for long shifts—this much stress on the feet is never healthy. Due to added pressure, nurses are prone to develop foot conditions that can progress into even more severe issues. Learn all about the Savvy selection of insoles for nurses below.
Why Do Nurses Need Insoles?
Many nurses wear regular sneakers or professional footwear (occupational shoes) during their long days. These shoes often come with simple insoles not suited for the specific needs of nurses, or conditions like shin splints, mortons neuroma or high arches. Replacing your Insoles with special insoles will be helpful for the following reasons:
- Insoles provide the foot arch support
- It aids the foot movement during walking and running
- Reduces foot pain caused by long hours of standing and walking.
- It gives comfort to the feet using cushioned padding.
- It acts as a shock absorbent with extra cushioning, maximizes the foot’s stability, and reduces arch pain.
That’s why I recommend that all nurses use cushioned inserts during work hours to avoid any potential problems. These insoles will relieve any lingering pain and provide support throughout the day. Read ahead to know our picks for the best nurse insoles!
“I never knew the difference insoles could make until I tried them! My feet feel so much better during long shifts. I’ve only been wearing Powerstep Pinnacle in my shoes a week or so and they seem to be working great!! These were recommended by my foot doctor.” –
Michelle, Registered Nurse.
Related: Best insoles for Adidas, Replace your insoles for Nike, insole replacements for converse, Memory Foam Vs Gel Insoles
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Best Insoles for Nurses
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Dr. Scholl’s WORK Massaging Gel Advanced Insoles
I like to believe that Dr. Scholl has specialized in foot care. Just think about it, why else would he have an abundance of insoles and other footcare products. These specific inserts are designed to provide comfort and energy.
While you are walking, they will resemble someone massaging your feet. This massaging technology operates through multiple gel layers that will create waves while walking.
There are holes present in the forefront that will act as air vents. Your feet will be able to breathe and remain moisture-free. Extra padding is provided for both the arch and the ball of foot area, so shocks are equally distributed within the foot. As these inserts cover all sensitive areas, all that is left is to trim them and place them inside your joggers.
PowerStep Pinnacle
Running in itself is pretty uncomfortable but running up and down the stairs is just a form of torture. Stair edges sink into your feet. Hard ground at every step and running forces your foot to come down with greater force.
Being a nurse, in case of an emergency, you will need to overcome those mountains of stairs since the elevator is not easily available during busy times.
In order to successfully fight against the evil stairs, you have to put in defensive measures of your own. These PowerStep pinnacle inserts are on your side and will help your battle.
They have four layers of cushioning made of foam and their support is divided into two parts: a deep heel cup to keep your foot in the correct position and a semi-rigid arch to provide balance while walking.
Rigid does not mean they are hard as a rock; the stiffness is combined with flexibility to relieve any pain.
“Powerstep insoles have been a lifesaver! They provide the perfect support for my arches, allowing me to focus on my patients.”
Emily, ER Nurse.
Sof Sole Insoles Men’s ATHLETE Performance Full-Length Gel Shoe Insert
Hearing the word sof will make you think these insoles are very soft. Their sizes are tailored for men, as they too could use some softness in their lives.
A lot of people assume that only females become nurses and they couldn’t be more wrong. This profession is aimed at all genders willing to aid people at their lowest. It is also equally unhealthy for men to stand around all day.
Sof sole inserts consist of gel, which distributes weight throughout the foot. When pressure is not concentrated towards one point, chances of injuries occurring are minimized. They are also lightweight and will not make your shoes seem bulky.
Their material is antimicrobial, which shields against bacteria and prevents odors from penetrating.
Spenco Polysorb Heavy Duty Maximum All Day Comfort and Support Shoe Insole
When I hear heavy-duty, my mind immediately goes to construction machinery. While nurses are not expected to operate a crane, they deal with more intricate tools.
Assisting doctors in surgeries, noting down blood pressure and heart rates, and injecting medicines into patients may not seem as tolling as operating machinery, however, continuous strain on feet in just as damaging.
Spenco polysorb inserts have a heel-strike pad that provides added padding to the heel. Their stretchable fabric also reduces friction to prevent blisters from forming. There is a pad present in the forefoot that provides an ease to the ball of foot area.
Ultimately, they also prevent your foot from slipping inside your shoes.
DJMed Stamina Soft Shoe Anti-Fatigue Cushion Insoles
These insoles have taken on two very contradicting career paths: being a DJ as well as a medical specialist. When people say to follow your dreams, these insoles swear to help you follow all of them. Their color is a mixture of orange and purple, which is a brighter change from all the greys and blues.
If you have been a nurse for a while, your feet might already be experiencing various kinds of pains. You might have also noticed how this pain has been ongoing as your feet are not getting rest.
All of this fatigue can be combated by using these inserts. They will disperse all the tension in your feet, as well as shield against further stress.
Dr. Scholl’s MASSAGING GEL ADVANCED Insoles
Dr. Scholl is out here trying his best. He keeps putting out new products so that your feet will remain in pristine condition. Within these insoles, there is more than 10% gel added. More gel means more ripples form in the forefoot – think of it as additional hands massaging your feet.
These inserts target the four main pressure points. They have made the gel to be firmer around the heel for your foot to bounce back quickly.
There is also extra gel present inside the arch to create a proper shape. And massaging is provided mid-sole to help with any discomfort.
Envelop Gel Insoles
Being a nurse with a flat foot is a nightmare. If you are not already using insoles, you are basically inviting a condition to impact your foot. People with flat feet need some extra support in their arches, otherwise, walking around becomes painful.
The gel also needs to be slightly rigid to cup the heel and forefoot properly. When these points are balanced, the pain caused due to the flat foot can be dissipated.
Envelop insoles have a honeycomb design to absorb shocks from walking. They will shape themselves around your foot for your arch to have the maximum support. These can also be inserted inside any closed shoe and will stick to the bottom to avoid slippage.
These inserts will not be easily flattened so that you can wear them all through your shifts.
CopperJoint Orthotic Insoles
As the name suggests, these insoles are lined with copper particles. It is believed that copper helps in healing and make the insert last longer.
Fret not; you will not find chunks of copper embedded into the insert; the ions are infused within the surface. These are made of foam to give support throughout the day.
Another benefit of copper is that is shields against all smells. They will not let your feet get sweaty, which in turn protects against odors. These insoles can be placed inside any type of shoe, may it be sneakers, work boots, or joggers. You might need to trim edges to get a perfect fit.
Foot Bliss Plantar Fasciitis Shoe Insoles
Plantar Fasciitis is mainly caused by constant strain. Tissues on the underside of your foot will become inflamed, resulting in severe pain in your heels.
A common strain is faced by most nurses when they are working on their feet. Rather than becoming injured and then seeking treatment, it is better to put in safeguards for your feet.
I am sure we all want some bliss in our lives. It can partly be achieved using these shoe insoles. Your alignment is messed with as when the pain starts; it will extend to joints, ankles, and even your back.
These insoles will distribute pressure, so that plantar fasciitis stays away from you.
Shoe Insole Insert Orthotic Memory Foam Insoles
Do not feel threatened by the word orthotic; it only means that these insoles are also usable for medical purposes. They are a bright yellow that cheer you up as soon as you see them.
They have a u-shape, which is meant to act as a shield for the forefoot. They are very flexible and have silicone gel inside the heel region for shock absorption.
Their primary material is memory foam. Memory foam remembers the shape of your foot and molds itself in accordance with your curves. They will ensure your feet are comfortable and alleviate any present paint.
Types of Insoles for Nurses
The first decision you must make when purchasing insoles for your nursing shoes is the sort of insole you require. There are three basic categories to pick from:
Gel Insoles:
These insoles are generally thicker than all other types. They absorb the most shocks and are ideal for those involved in activities like walking or standing for long hours. These insoles have the potential to alleviate foot fatigue and are typically cheap, which are two of the reasons why many nurses choose them.
Cushioned Arch Support Insoles:
These insoles don’t provide the same arch support as orthotic shoes, but they feature built-in arch support. Furthermore, they feature a deeper heel cup; this style of insole is also extremely flexible and is typically constructed completely of cushioning padding.
Orthotic Arch Support Insoles:
These insoles, perhaps the most popular among nurses, are notable for their remarkable flexibility. They provide stability and support while being flexible enough to adapt to the contours of their foot. Even while your compression stockings are on, they can help avoid plantar fasciitis, supination, and other foot disorders by making you feel comfortable all day.
Best Insoles for Nurses Buying Guide
We have reviewed brands like Dr. Scholl and DJMet, but ask yourself why you are looking for insoles before purchasing anything. Are you a nurse working on your feet all day, or do you just want some general support?
Or perhaps you have an underlying medical issue that requires treatment. Keep the following features in mind before you make a purchase.
Support
Support comes in three categories. The first is rigid support. This insert is meant to target particular conditions as it controls ankle movement. These are generally custom-made and should not be bought without consulting a podiatrist.
The second is soft support. These are the ones that are meant to absorb shocks, distribute pressure, and keep your foot stable. They are the most common insoles to help ease foot tension. They are also supposed to be lightweight as not to weigh down your foot.
Finally, there is semi-rigid support. These will be a mixture of softness and hardness and are preferred by athletes or people who need added cushioning. The rigidness is added by foam or leather, which maintain shape and provide padding.
Size
Most insoles have a range of sizes available, but they will be written as “Women’s 7-9”. One insole caters to different sizes, as they can be trimmed down to match your exact foot shape.
The trimming is mostly only necessary for full-length inserts, which might not otherwise fit inside your shoes.
Arch Type
You will need to find what kind of arch your feet have and make sure to buy an insole accordingly. Some insoles cater to all arch types, while others are specified for low, normal, or high arches. They can also help in treating flat feet.
Material
Insoles are most commonly made of gel or foam. While each has its own benefits, you will need to pick the material for the kind of support you need. Foam provides the most pillow-like effect, while the gel is best for impact absorption.
Thickness
Insoles come in a range of different thicknesses. The low thickness insole will take up the least space in your shoe and are best for activities like skating. These are also recommended for people with low arches.
Normal thickness insoles fit inside normal volume shoes. They will work for both exercise shoes and casual footwear.
Finally, insoles with high thickness are for people with high arches. They are best for activities such as hiking or jogging.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I place insoles inside my shoe?
First, ensure that your shoes have been cleaned and dry. Insert the insole as it is to see if it fits. If they are positioned correctly for your feet, there is no need to make any adjustments. If they are too big, you will need to trim them according to the insole already present inside the shoe.
At times, you might need to remove the shoe’s original insole and replace it with the new one. This will ensure your foot is not crowded.
How do I take care of my insoles to make them last longer?
Store-bought insoles will last about a year, even if used daily. After use, leave them out to be air-dried so any moisture present will evaporate. Inspect them to see if there are any wear and tear. If a wash is necessary, do so by hand.
What kind of conditions will insoles treat?
At times pain occurs because your shoe is too big. Insoles will make them into a snug fit. Calluses form due to friction, and insoles help reduce that friction. They are also beneficial for treating diabetes-related foot pain.
Over the counter Insoles for Nurses explained (video)
Conclusion
The proper insoles may be the difference between a pleasant and productive workday and a dreadful and unpleasant one. Nurses should purchase insoles to alleviate foot discomfort, tiredness, and hot, sweaty feet.
Regarding common and significant foot issues, all of the above insoles for nurses can help; but our favorite is the Powerstep Pinnacle Insole. This is because it combines foam and gel materials to give optimum shock absorption and cushioning. It also helps the feet stay fresh and stable by reducing unpleasant odors.
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